Psychiatrists in 75035

Photo of Edwige Tonye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Edwige Tonye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Frisco, TX 75035
As a board- certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate mental health care to patients dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/ addiction, mood/personality disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and many more. I possess strong clinical skills and have the ability to build strong connections with patients and families. My goal is to provide an optimum level of care to all my patients by promoting mental well-being. I believe the use of psychotherapy, medication, patient’s active participation in the care, is the key for the treatment of mental health disorders.
As a board- certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate mental health care to patients dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/ addiction, mood/personality disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and many more. I possess strong clinical skills and have the ability to build strong connections with patients and families. My goal is to provide an optimum level of care to all my patients by promoting mental well-being. I believe the use of psychotherapy, medication, patient’s active participation in the care, is the key for the treatment of mental health disorders.
(214) 571-7847 View (214) 571-7847
Photo of Uchenna Stephanie Ukoha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Uchenna Stephanie Ukoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75035
Welcome to my practice! With over 18 years in healthcare, including a decade as a board-certified Nurse Practitioner, I bridge the gap between mental health and physical vitality. My practice focuses on Integrative Psychiatry and Metabolic Health, ensuring your mental wellness and physical health goals are well aligned.
Welcome to my practice! With over 18 years in healthcare, including a decade as a board-certified Nurse Practitioner, I bridge the gap between mental health and physical vitality. My practice focuses on Integrative Psychiatry and Metabolic Health, ensuring your mental wellness and physical health goals are well aligned.
(469) 804-5398 View (469) 804-5398
Photo of Lubna Siddiki, Psychiatrist, MD
Lubna Siddiki
Psychiatrist, MD
Frisco, TX 75035
At Perfect Balance Psychiatric Services our philosophy is restoring peace and empowering wellness back into your life! Our clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual.
At Perfect Balance Psychiatric Services our philosophy is restoring peace and empowering wellness back into your life! Our clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual.
(214) 983-9423 View (214) 983-9423
Photo of Writtika Roy, Psychiatrist, MD
Writtika Roy
Psychiatrist, MD
Frisco, TX 75035
In addition to providing standard treatment of mental illnesses with medication and psychotherapy, I like to help my patients become artists of their own lives. Our minds are greater than our mental illness, and we are greater than our minds. At the same time, we have to be honest about the negative effects of a mental illness in our lives, and not delay remedies which can contain, manage, and even remove the dysfunction. Accepting the reality of an illness, but not letting an illness limit our happiness, requires conscious management. This, my patients can count on me to provide.
In addition to providing standard treatment of mental illnesses with medication and psychotherapy, I like to help my patients become artists of their own lives. Our minds are greater than our mental illness, and we are greater than our minds. At the same time, we have to be honest about the negative effects of a mental illness in our lives, and not delay remedies which can contain, manage, and even remove the dysfunction. Accepting the reality of an illness, but not letting an illness limit our happiness, requires conscious management. This, my patients can count on me to provide.
(469) 336-3283 View (469) 336-3283
Photo of Nazimuddin Talha Mohammed - Dr. Mohammed- Compassionate Psychiatric Services, Psychiatrist, MD
Hello, I’m Dr. Nazimuddin Mohammed, I am a board certified psychiatrist, and have been treating patients for over 20 years. As a psychiatrist, I believe in compassionate, patient-centered care that honors the dignity and unique story of every individual. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a deep respect for the emotional, psychological, and physical aspects of wellness. I see mental health as an integral part of whole-person care, and I strive to create a safe space where patients feel seen, heard, and supported on their path to healing and growth.
Hello, I’m Dr. Nazimuddin Mohammed, I am a board certified psychiatrist, and have been treating patients for over 20 years. As a psychiatrist, I believe in compassionate, patient-centered care that honors the dignity and unique story of every individual. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a deep respect for the emotional, psychological, and physical aspects of wellness. I see mental health as an integral part of whole-person care, and I strive to create a safe space where patients feel seen, heard, and supported on their path to healing and growth.
(972) 846-8314 View (972) 846-8314
Photo of Bernard Kofi Marfo - Hope Psychiatry & Associates, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Hope Psychiatry & Associates, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
5 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75035
Hope Psychiatry & Associates is a Nurse Practitioner driven outpatient mental health clinic managed by our licensed-board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Bernard K. Marfo. Our provider collaborates with an experienced Psychiatrist to provide client-centered mental health services for children, adolescent, and adult. We pride ourselves in providing culturally competent individualized psychiatric and behavioral services through medication management and brief therapy. Let us help you feel the very best and live a happier life by taking the first step today.
Hope Psychiatry & Associates is a Nurse Practitioner driven outpatient mental health clinic managed by our licensed-board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Bernard K. Marfo. Our provider collaborates with an experienced Psychiatrist to provide client-centered mental health services for children, adolescent, and adult. We pride ourselves in providing culturally competent individualized psychiatric and behavioral services through medication management and brief therapy. Let us help you feel the very best and live a happier life by taking the first step today.
(972) 433-9774 View (972) 433-9774
Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, Psychiatrist
healthPiper
Psychiatrist
Frisco, TX 75035
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(469) 746-5760 View (469) 746-5760
Photo of Dr. Krishnendu Ghosh, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Krishnendu Ghosh
Psychiatrist, MD
Frisco, TX 75035
I’m a double board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Texas and currently accepting new patients. I offer in-person and virtual appointments, often available within 72 hours. I treat depression, ADHD, anxiety/OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma/PTSD, and also support people navigating life stress such as grief, divorce, or career changes. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and collaborative—focused on helping you feel heard, understood, and supported with evidence-based care tailored to you.
I’m a double board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Texas and currently accepting new patients. I offer in-person and virtual appointments, often available within 72 hours. I treat depression, ADHD, anxiety/OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma/PTSD, and also support people navigating life stress such as grief, divorce, or career changes. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and collaborative—focused on helping you feel heard, understood, and supported with evidence-based care tailored to you.
(972) 433-9814 View (972) 433-9814
Photo of Pratibha Agarwal, Psychiatrist, MD
Pratibha Agarwal
Psychiatrist, MD
Frisco, TX 75035
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent & adult psychiatrist in Little Elm & Frisco, treating patients aged 4 and older.  At AG Psychiatry, the psychiatrists bring years of experience to their services and a passion for improving overall health and mental well-being. We offer innovative forms of individual or family psychotherapy, medication management, and school-based services to improve day-to-day well-being. Convenient virtual or in-person appointments are available on weekdays, after school hours, and on weekends.  The AG Psychiatry team looks forward to improving your and your family’s mental health.
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent & adult psychiatrist in Little Elm & Frisco, treating patients aged 4 and older.  At AG Psychiatry, the psychiatrists bring years of experience to their services and a passion for improving overall health and mental well-being. We offer innovative forms of individual or family psychotherapy, medication management, and school-based services to improve day-to-day well-being. Convenient virtual or in-person appointments are available on weekdays, after school hours, and on weekends.  The AG Psychiatry team looks forward to improving your and your family’s mental health.
(469) 312-6967 View (469) 312-6967
Photo of Pratibha Agarwal, Psychiatrist, MD
Pratibha Agarwal
Psychiatrist, MD
Frisco, TX 75035
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist, proud to bring expert psychiatric care to the team at AG Psychiatry. Treating patients aged 4 and older in Frisco & Little Elm.  I brings years of experience to their services and a passion for improving overall health and mental well-being. Appointments available within a week. At AG Psychiatry, we offer innovative forms of medication management, and school-based services to improve day-to-day well-being. Convenient virtual or in-person appointments are available on weekdays, after school hours, and on weekends.
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist, proud to bring expert psychiatric care to the team at AG Psychiatry. Treating patients aged 4 and older in Frisco & Little Elm.  I brings years of experience to their services and a passion for improving overall health and mental well-being. Appointments available within a week. At AG Psychiatry, we offer innovative forms of medication management, and school-based services to improve day-to-day well-being. Convenient virtual or in-person appointments are available on weekdays, after school hours, and on weekends.
(214) 301-5670 View (214) 301-5670
Photo of Messay Oshe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Messay Oshe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to treat patients with mental health disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in managing medications and treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. My approach is grounded in a humanistic philosophy that values holistic care for mind, body, and spirit, along with personalized, culturally sensitive treatment.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to treat patients with mental health disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in managing medications and treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. My approach is grounded in a humanistic philosophy that values holistic care for mind, body, and spirit, along with personalized, culturally sensitive treatment.
(469) 409-6433 View (469) 409-6433
Photo of Dr. Kimberlyn Baig-Ward, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kimberlyn Baig-Ward
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Maravet Baig-Ward, MD, PhD, is dedicated to helping individuals across Texas improve their mental health and quality of life through compassionate, evidence-based care. She works closely with patients to identify their unique needs and create personalized treatment plans that support stability, resilience, and long-term well-being. Dr. Baig-Ward provides both therapy and medication management, offering a balanced and integrated approach for those navigating complex mental health conditions. Dr. Baig-Ward is especially passionate about supporting individuals facing challenges with ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Maravet Baig-Ward, MD, PhD, is dedicated to helping individuals across Texas improve their mental health and quality of life through compassionate, evidence-based care. She works closely with patients to identify their unique needs and create personalized treatment plans that support stability, resilience, and long-term well-being. Dr. Baig-Ward provides both therapy and medication management, offering a balanced and integrated approach for those navigating complex mental health conditions. Dr. Baig-Ward is especially passionate about supporting individuals facing challenges with ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
(469) 517-9417 View (469) 517-9417
Photo of John Byun - Prosper Family Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Prosper Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
It can be challenging to navigate the unique circumstances in your life alone. At Prosper Family Psychiatry, we're committed to providing compassionate and empathetic mental health care, guiding each patient on their journey toward healing. We believe treatment begins with a foundational patient-doctor relationship that is built on trust. Our aim is to walk with patients to help them discover their purpose and work towards building a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
It can be challenging to navigate the unique circumstances in your life alone. At Prosper Family Psychiatry, we're committed to providing compassionate and empathetic mental health care, guiding each patient on their journey toward healing. We believe treatment begins with a foundational patient-doctor relationship that is built on trust. Our aim is to walk with patients to help them discover their purpose and work towards building a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
(214) 620-0646 View (214) 620-0646
Photo of Dr. Stacey Ericka Forbes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Stacey Ericka Forbes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You're the strong one, you hold it together for everyone else, but you're mentally and physically exhausted—you are suffering in silence, and your current mental health isn’t keeping up. You don't have to keep white-knuckling life. I provide precise psychiatric diagnosis and medication management for adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, and life transitions. I work with adults—and adolescents 12+—who need comprehensive, nutritional, and functional psychiatric care. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation today. I will work collaboratively with your therapist to get you the help needed for you to be your best self.
You're the strong one, you hold it together for everyone else, but you're mentally and physically exhausted—you are suffering in silence, and your current mental health isn’t keeping up. You don't have to keep white-knuckling life. I provide precise psychiatric diagnosis and medication management for adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, and life transitions. I work with adults—and adolescents 12+—who need comprehensive, nutritional, and functional psychiatric care. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation today. I will work collaboratively with your therapist to get you the help needed for you to be your best self.
(832) 780-4314 View (832) 780-4314
Photo of Dr. Zainab Zia - Excel Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Excel Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Schedule appointment online at www.excel-psychiatry.com or call at designated number. Dr. Zia is a Double Board-Certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist with 10 years of experience in diagnosing and treating common Psychiatric conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Dr. Zia completed her residency training at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee. She did her fellowship from University of Texas Southwestern Medial School, Dallas, TX in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
Schedule appointment online at www.excel-psychiatry.com or call at designated number. Dr. Zia is a Double Board-Certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist with 10 years of experience in diagnosing and treating common Psychiatric conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Dr. Zia completed her residency training at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee. She did her fellowship from University of Texas Southwestern Medial School, Dallas, TX in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
(469) 287-7191 View (469) 287-7191
Photo of Furqan Rizvi, Psychiatrist, MD
Furqan Rizvi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, currently providing psychiatric services at a private office in Frisco Mental Health Services and as a chief medical officer at Haven Behavioral Hospital of Frisco. Dr. Rizvi provides services to ages 10 years and above. He is well experienced in providing medication management for a wide spectrum of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, schizophrenia, sleep issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and behavioral disturbances related to dementia.
Dr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, currently providing psychiatric services at a private office in Frisco Mental Health Services and as a chief medical officer at Haven Behavioral Hospital of Frisco. Dr. Rizvi provides services to ages 10 years and above. He is well experienced in providing medication management for a wide spectrum of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, schizophrenia, sleep issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and behavioral disturbances related to dementia.
(469) 824-3511 View (469) 824-3511
Photo of Troy Dodson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Troy Dodson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Troy Dodson helps patients regain stability, clarity, and improved quality of life through personalized mental health care, offering medication management and therapy services for individuals across Texas. He works with teens, adults, and seniors, providing support for a wide range of conditions with a thoughtful, whole-person approach that considers both mental and physical health factors. His clinical focus includes treating ADHD, anxiety, and depression, while also supporting individuals navigating substance use challenges and complex psychiatric conditions.
Troy Dodson helps patients regain stability, clarity, and improved quality of life through personalized mental health care, offering medication management and therapy services for individuals across Texas. He works with teens, adults, and seniors, providing support for a wide range of conditions with a thoughtful, whole-person approach that considers both mental and physical health factors. His clinical focus includes treating ADHD, anxiety, and depression, while also supporting individuals navigating substance use challenges and complex psychiatric conditions.
(469) 940-5719 View (469) 940-5719
Photo of Umar Latif, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Umar Latif
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Serves Area
Dr. Umar Latif is a triple board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. A Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and Associate Clinical Professor at Texas A&M College of Medicine, he brings over two decades of experience to his private practice. He works with adults and seniors seeking personalized, thoughtful care beyond short-term symptom relief. Dr. Latif also writes a free newsletter on psychiatry and mental health: Psychiatry 3.0
Dr. Umar Latif is a triple board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. A Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and Associate Clinical Professor at Texas A&M College of Medicine, he brings over two decades of experience to his private practice. He works with adults and seniors seeking personalized, thoughtful care beyond short-term symptom relief. Dr. Latif also writes a free newsletter on psychiatry and mental health: Psychiatry 3.0
(940) 293-2342 View (940) 293-2342
Photo of Cartrina Danner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cartrina Danner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Schedule appointment online with just a few clicks at www.allenpsychiatry.com. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working under supervision of a board-certified Psychiatrist, Shahla Ali, MD.
Schedule appointment online with just a few clicks at www.allenpsychiatry.com. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working under supervision of a board-certified Psychiatrist, Shahla Ali, MD.
(972) 914-0767 View (972) 914-0767
Photo of Meron Tibebu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Meron Tibebu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Meron Tibebu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master’s Degree from the University of Missouri Kansas City. Meron values and respects her patients while providing patient centered care. She follows holistic and collaborative approach. In her spare time, Meron enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and loves to travel when she gets a chance.
Meron Tibebu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master’s Degree from the University of Missouri Kansas City. Meron values and respects her patients while providing patient centered care. She follows holistic and collaborative approach. In her spare time, Meron enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and loves to travel when she gets a chance.
(972) 848-6283 View (972) 848-6283

See more therapy options for 75035

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75035

30+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 75035 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
97% Depression
95% Bipolar Disorder
84% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
86% Optum
79% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 75035 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75035?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.