Psychiatrists in 75044

My ideal client is someone struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or mood disorders who hasn’t found relief with traditional methods. They seek effective, innovative treatments like TMS, Ketamine infusions, or Spravato to finally achieve the breakthrough they need. Their goal is to regain control over their life, improve their mental health, and experience a renewed sense of hope and well-being. They want compassionate care that delivers real results and helps them move forward.
My ideal client is someone struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or mood disorders who hasn’t found relief with traditional methods. They seek effective, innovative treatments like TMS, Ketamine infusions, or Spravato to finally achieve the breakthrough they need. Their goal is to regain control over their life, improve their mental health, and experience a renewed sense of hope and well-being. They want compassionate care that delivers real results and helps them move forward.

Access Behavioral Care: Faith Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Dr. Mercy Ngeusang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Mercy Ngeusang is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years of cumulative experience in caring. Obtained her doctorate degree at Northern Kentucky University, prior to years of clinical practice specializing in Psychiatry. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from University in Maryland USA, and continued to further her education through Walden University where she received her Master’s Degree. She treats numerous complex mental health conditions requiring ongoing medication management for children, adolescents, Adults and Elderly populations.
Dr. Mercy Ngeusang is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years of cumulative experience in caring. Obtained her doctorate degree at Northern Kentucky University, prior to years of clinical practice specializing in Psychiatry. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from University in Maryland USA, and continued to further her education through Walden University where she received her Master’s Degree. She treats numerous complex mental health conditions requiring ongoing medication management for children, adolescents, Adults and Elderly populations.

Siji is board-certified by the ANCC as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric assessment and medication management. She is trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health problems. Her philosophy is patient-centered, addressing mind, body, spiritual health, and wellness. Her approach is conservative and she has experience in a variety of healthcare settings, both psychiatric and medical.
Siji is board-certified by the ANCC as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric assessment and medication management. She is trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health problems. Her philosophy is patient-centered, addressing mind, body, spiritual health, and wellness. Her approach is conservative and she has experience in a variety of healthcare settings, both psychiatric and medical.

Adeleye Ogunlade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Accepting new patients in TX and CT! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
Accepting new patients in TX and CT! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.

Saleema Hirani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I can see myself working with clients with everyday stresses at workplace, marital couple issues, kids at school struggling with grades, attention and behavioral issues. Problems such as anxiety, depressed mood can take a toll on the whole family and I would like to discuss that within family therapy. It makes a whole lot of difference when at least one family member be able to handle him or herself facilitating the whole family structure. teenagers and adolescents struggle everyday at school, colleges, peers and within family who could be helped tremendously by family therapy along with individual therapy.
I can see myself working with clients with everyday stresses at workplace, marital couple issues, kids at school struggling with grades, attention and behavioral issues. Problems such as anxiety, depressed mood can take a toll on the whole family and I would like to discuss that within family therapy. It makes a whole lot of difference when at least one family member be able to handle him or herself facilitating the whole family structure. teenagers and adolescents struggle everyday at school, colleges, peers and within family who could be helped tremendously by family therapy along with individual therapy.

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.

Gopan Pillai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072
*Telemedicine available* Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and NSCA certified personal trainer specializing in treating and prescribing medications when appropriate for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood/bipolar disorders. I focus on quality of care, outcomes, and have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I value active listening and not prematurely jumping to conclusions. Your opinion truly matters to me so I will include you in the decision-making process every step of the way especially when it deals with medications. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey to success.
*Telemedicine available* Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and NSCA certified personal trainer specializing in treating and prescribing medications when appropriate for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood/bipolar disorders. I focus on quality of care, outcomes, and have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I value active listening and not prematurely jumping to conclusions. Your opinion truly matters to me so I will include you in the decision-making process every step of the way especially when it deals with medications. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey to success.

Xtra Care Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
Going through mental health challenges is understandable! Sometimes our limitations or struggles prevent us to determine our identity. You are not alone! I specializes in providing compassionate care as We take a whole person’s approach and consider mind, body, spirit, culture, environment in your care in a non-judgmental manner. We specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions, including treating Generalized Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Grief, Trauma and Behaviors Issues. You need not to confront your challenges in isolation; Let's walk together!
Going through mental health challenges is understandable! Sometimes our limitations or struggles prevent us to determine our identity. You are not alone! I specializes in providing compassionate care as We take a whole person’s approach and consider mind, body, spirit, culture, environment in your care in a non-judgmental manner. We specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions, including treating Generalized Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Grief, Trauma and Behaviors Issues. You need not to confront your challenges in isolation; Let's walk together!

Do you feel stressed by everyday challenges? Do you struggle with your mood? Does anxiety hold you back from achieving your goal? Do you struggle with low self-esteem? Are you having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep? I treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, eating disorder, gambling addiction, and bipolar using medication management to your target symptoms.
Do you feel stressed by everyday challenges? Do you struggle with your mood? Does anxiety hold you back from achieving your goal? Do you struggle with low self-esteem? Are you having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep? I treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, eating disorder, gambling addiction, and bipolar using medication management to your target symptoms.

Dr. De Paz is the director of Behavioral Health for CommuniCare health centers, he received his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch and did his residency training in General Psychiatry and a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Texas Medical Branch. After his training he worked at the Center for Health Care Services in San Antonio for 3 years and served as the Director of the Children’s program and the Dual Diagnosis clinic. He has also worked for JSA telehealth who were in the forefront of the use of telemedicine services to reach the most underserved populations in the state.
Dr. De Paz is the director of Behavioral Health for CommuniCare health centers, he received his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch and did his residency training in General Psychiatry and a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Texas Medical Branch. After his training he worked at the Center for Health Care Services in San Antonio for 3 years and served as the Director of the Children’s program and the Dual Diagnosis clinic. He has also worked for JSA telehealth who were in the forefront of the use of telemedicine services to reach the most underserved populations in the state.

Anselm Onyeneke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.

Tara Arevalo is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She attained her FNP from Duke University and her PMHNP from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She is driven by her love of the healthcare profession, helping people, and with her empathetic nature, she remains steadfast in her abilities and passion. She is also a proud U.S. Army veteran; Tara served during Operation Enduring Freedom before she decided to become a Nurse Practitioner. Tara’s passion for teaching is evident in her practice.
Tara Arevalo is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She attained her FNP from Duke University and her PMHNP from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She is driven by her love of the healthcare profession, helping people, and with her empathetic nature, she remains steadfast in her abilities and passion. She is also a proud U.S. Army veteran; Tara served during Operation Enduring Freedom before she decided to become a Nurse Practitioner. Tara’s passion for teaching is evident in her practice.

Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.

Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.

Compassion Behavioral Health Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75116
We want our clients to understand that they are not alone regardless of what their condition may sound or look like rather be rest assured that Compassion Behavioral Health will provide interventions to restore hopes.
We want our clients to understand that they are not alone regardless of what their condition may sound or look like rather be rest assured that Compassion Behavioral Health will provide interventions to restore hopes.

Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.

I am Emem Nkanga, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in nursing science from the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). I have over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, with the last three years in psychiatry. My extensive background spans various healthcare fields, including trauma, medical/ surgical, progressive/intermediate care, rehabilitation, and psychiatry. I dedicated my lifelong career to improving the well-being of individuals and communities.
I am Emem Nkanga, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in nursing science from the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). I have over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, with the last three years in psychiatry. My extensive background spans various healthcare fields, including trauma, medical/ surgical, progressive/intermediate care, rehabilitation, and psychiatry. I dedicated my lifelong career to improving the well-being of individuals and communities.

Appointment Availability as early as SAME Day to within 1 WEEK! Have you been struggling? Feeling down in the dumps? Having no motivation to do the things you used to find pleasurable? Feeling hopeless, worthless, helpless? Feeling anxious and worrying all the time? Having trouble focusing and completing your daily activities? Do you want to get back to feeling good about yourself and the world around you and attain holistic mental wellness? We at Optimus Psychiatry are here to help you get to your goals. We listen to you, we support you, and we journey with you towards holistic mental wellness.
Appointment Availability as early as SAME Day to within 1 WEEK! Have you been struggling? Feeling down in the dumps? Having no motivation to do the things you used to find pleasurable? Feeling hopeless, worthless, helpless? Feeling anxious and worrying all the time? Having trouble focusing and completing your daily activities? Do you want to get back to feeling good about yourself and the world around you and attain holistic mental wellness? We at Optimus Psychiatry are here to help you get to your goals. We listen to you, we support you, and we journey with you towards holistic mental wellness.

Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
See more therapy options for 75044
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 75044
< 10
Psychiatrists in 75044 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Stress |
50% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 75044 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 75044?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.