Psychiatrists in 75069

Photo of Anitha Mathew, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Anitha Mathew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
McKinney, TX 75069
Anitha Mathew, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified nurse practitioner who offers treatment to all age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. Anitha completed her degree in Respiratory Care before pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Nursing at Oklahoma City University and a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration at Mid America Christian University in Oklahoma. She furthered her education at the University of South Alabama and obtained a Master’s degree in Nursing.
Anitha Mathew, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified nurse practitioner who offers treatment to all age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. Anitha completed her degree in Respiratory Care before pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Nursing at Oklahoma City University and a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration at Mid America Christian University in Oklahoma. She furthered her education at the University of South Alabama and obtained a Master’s degree in Nursing.
(469) 217-5911 View (469) 217-5911
Photo of Tina Fast, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PNP
Tina Fast
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PNP
1 Endorsed
Fairview, TX 75069
You and your family deserve to feel heard, understood, and supported—without judgment and without being rushed. At ABCD Psychiatry, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care that’s rooted in trust, respect, and real connection. We offer a holistic approach with incorporates both medication and alternative options. I’m Tina Fast, PMHNP-BC, and with over 25 years in the medical field, I understand how overwhelming it can feel to seek help. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, or just not feeling like yourself lately, I’m here to walk alongside you with personalized care that meets you where you are.
You and your family deserve to feel heard, understood, and supported—without judgment and without being rushed. At ABCD Psychiatry, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care that’s rooted in trust, respect, and real connection. We offer a holistic approach with incorporates both medication and alternative options. I’m Tina Fast, PMHNP-BC, and with over 25 years in the medical field, I understand how overwhelming it can feel to seek help. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, or just not feeling like yourself lately, I’m here to walk alongside you with personalized care that meets you where you are.
(972) 954-8514 View (972) 954-8514
Photo of Dr. Sameera Rasheed, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sameera Rasheed
Psychiatrist, MD
McKinney, TX 75069
Dr. Sameera Rasheed is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist originally from Karachi, Pakistan. She earned her medical degree from Jinnah Sindh Medical University in Karachi and completed her residency at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Sameera Rasheed is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist originally from Karachi, Pakistan. She earned her medical degree from Jinnah Sindh Medical University in Karachi and completed her residency at the University of North Dakota.
(972) 845-4553 View (972) 845-4553
Photo of Vu Hoang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vu Hoang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
McKinney, TX 75069
I work with individuals who are managing mood disorders or other mental health challenges. My clients want to better understand their symptoms, improve their emotional well-being, and find strategies that work for their unique situations. They’re looking for personalized care that respects their journey.
I work with individuals who are managing mood disorders or other mental health challenges. My clients want to better understand their symptoms, improve their emotional well-being, and find strategies that work for their unique situations. They’re looking for personalized care that respects their journey.
(469) 702-9861 View (469) 702-9861
Photo of Amna Mallick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amna Mallick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
McKinney, TX 75069
Amna Mallick is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner originally from New Jersey. She has lived in Michigan and now resides in Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education and her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. Amna is currently pursuing her Doctor of Science in Nursing in Educational Leadership. She has clinical experience in outpatient psychiatry, telemedicine, and hospital-based care and has a special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma-informed care.
Amna Mallick is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner originally from New Jersey. She has lived in Michigan and now resides in Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education and her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. Amna is currently pursuing her Doctor of Science in Nursing in Educational Leadership. She has clinical experience in outpatient psychiatry, telemedicine, and hospital-based care and has a special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma-informed care.
(469) 415-9750 View (469) 415-9750
Photo of Omolara Oloye-Adelusi - Crystal Mind Psychiatry and Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Crystal Mind Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
17 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.
(469) 537-4548 View (469) 537-4548
Photo of Adeyinka Adebayo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Adeyinka Adebayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Fairview, TX 75069
Hello, I’m Adeyinka "Yinka" Adebayo, a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide comprehensive psychiatric care through telehealth and in-person, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, and co-occurring conditions. My background includes experience in primary care, mental health, and outpatient clinical practice, allowing me to take a holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment. I focus on delivering personalized, evidence-based care that helps individuals achieve clarity, balance, and improved daily functioning.
Hello, I’m Adeyinka "Yinka" Adebayo, a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide comprehensive psychiatric care through telehealth and in-person, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, and co-occurring conditions. My background includes experience in primary care, mental health, and outpatient clinical practice, allowing me to take a holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment. I focus on delivering personalized, evidence-based care that helps individuals achieve clarity, balance, and improved daily functioning.
(469) 297-9246 View (469) 297-9246
Photo of Omolara Oloye-Adelusi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Omolara Oloye-Adelusi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
8 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
I want to help those suffering with ADHD, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, and other mental health issues. I want to truly listen to the needs of my patients and formulate an individualized plan to get you feeling better. I am here to support you in this journey through a combination of pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy approaches. I prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas. Accepting most insurance and self-pay. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist.
I want to help those suffering with ADHD, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, and other mental health issues. I want to truly listen to the needs of my patients and formulate an individualized plan to get you feeling better. I am here to support you in this journey through a combination of pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy approaches. I prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas. Accepting most insurance and self-pay. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist.
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Photo of Aditya Sharma - Innova Psychiatric Group, Psychiatrist, MD
Innova Psychiatric Group
Psychiatrist, MD
McKinney, TX 75069
Every Patient is our ideal patient, whether they are adolescents or adults. We offer compassionate, personalized mental health care for concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Many come to us during challenging times or when they feel their needs haven’t been fully addressed elsewhere. Our team provides thorough evaluations and individualized treatment plans, offering medication management and ongoing support to help patients gain stability, improve daily functioning, and move forward with confidence.
Every Patient is our ideal patient, whether they are adolescents or adults. We offer compassionate, personalized mental health care for concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Many come to us during challenging times or when they feel their needs haven’t been fully addressed elsewhere. Our team provides thorough evaluations and individualized treatment plans, offering medication management and ongoing support to help patients gain stability, improve daily functioning, and move forward with confidence.
(469) 742-0199 View (469) 742-0199
Fouzia Junaid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
My clients are individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life transitions, and are seeking a safe, judgment-free space to regain emotional balance and clarity. They may struggle with racing thoughts, sleep issues, or difficulty managing daily responsibilities while feeling emotionally drained. Many are professionals, parents, or young adults who want to feel like themselves again- calm, focused, and hopeful.
My clients are individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life transitions, and are seeking a safe, judgment-free space to regain emotional balance and clarity. They may struggle with racing thoughts, sleep issues, or difficulty managing daily responsibilities while feeling emotionally drained. Many are professionals, parents, or young adults who want to feel like themselves again- calm, focused, and hopeful.
(972) 694-6620 View (972) 694-6620
Photo of Dr. Cassandra Boduch, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Cassandra Boduch
Psychiatrist, MD
McKinney, TX 75069
Cassandra Boduch, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing patient experiences. After completing a rigorous medical education and training at Texas A&M College of Medicine she received her Medical Doctorate and embarked on a career dedicated to patient care, research, and advocacy. She completed her psychiatry residency at UTHealth Houston, focusing on treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, and the specific psychiatric treatment of children and adolescents.
Cassandra Boduch, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing patient experiences. After completing a rigorous medical education and training at Texas A&M College of Medicine she received her Medical Doctorate and embarked on a career dedicated to patient care, research, and advocacy. She completed her psychiatry residency at UTHealth Houston, focusing on treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, and the specific psychiatric treatment of children and adolescents.
(469) 526-7400 View (469) 526-7400
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(972) 737-7530 View (972) 737-7530
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
McKinney, TX 75069
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(469) 523-4712 View (469) 523-4712
Photo of Dr. Mustafa Hussain, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Mustafa Hussain
Psychiatrist, MD
McKinney, TX 75069
Mustafa Hussain is a board-certified psychiatrist who resides in Amarillo, Texas. He obtained his MD from Dow University of Health Sciences in Karachi, Pakistan. Following medical school, he completed his residency at New Bridges Hospital in New Jersey.
Mustafa Hussain is a board-certified psychiatrist who resides in Amarillo, Texas. He obtained his MD from Dow University of Health Sciences in Karachi, Pakistan. Following medical school, he completed his residency at New Bridges Hospital in New Jersey.
(806) 542-2272 View (806) 542-2272
Photo of Alejandra Dominguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alejandra Dominguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
McKinney, TX 75069
Alejandra Dominguez is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who hails from Rio Grande Valley. She earned her a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree from Walden University. Alejandra is passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges related to addiction, anxiety and depression.
Alejandra Dominguez is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who hails from Rio Grande Valley. She earned her a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree from Walden University. Alejandra is passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges related to addiction, anxiety and depression.
(956) 593-5921 View (956) 593-5921
Photo of Funmi Akinsola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Funmi Akinsola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
You don’t have to walk through life’s challenges alone. I’m Funmilayo Akinsola, PMHNP-BC, a compassionate, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 17 years of diverse nursing and mental health experience. My goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where your story is heard, your strengths are recognized, and your personal goals shape your care. Together, we will create a treatment plan that empowers you to build resilience, find balance, and experience lasting healing. I am committed to making a positive impact on each patient I see.
You don’t have to walk through life’s challenges alone. I’m Funmilayo Akinsola, PMHNP-BC, a compassionate, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 17 years of diverse nursing and mental health experience. My goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where your story is heard, your strengths are recognized, and your personal goals shape your care. Together, we will create a treatment plan that empowers you to build resilience, find balance, and experience lasting healing. I am committed to making a positive impact on each patient I see.
(817) 580-8943 View (817) 580-8943
Photo of Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Fairview, TX 75069
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
(214) 892-2961 View (214) 892-2961
Photo of Michelle Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fairview, TX 75069
PsychPlus provider, Michelle Arnold is a warm, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC APRN) with over 30 years in healthcare. Though her early career was rooted in nursing, she’s spent the past year fully focused on mental health—where her true passion lies. Born and raised in the Texas Panhandle, Michelle is dedicated to supporting adolescents, adults, and women navigating perinatal mental health challenges. Her academic journey began in 1994 with her LVN, followed by an RN, BSN, MSN in Nursing Education, and her PMHNP certification from West Texas A&M University in 2024.
PsychPlus provider, Michelle Arnold is a warm, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC APRN) with over 30 years in healthcare. Though her early career was rooted in nursing, she’s spent the past year fully focused on mental health—where her true passion lies. Born and raised in the Texas Panhandle, Michelle is dedicated to supporting adolescents, adults, and women navigating perinatal mental health challenges. Her academic journey began in 1994 with her LVN, followed by an RN, BSN, MSN in Nursing Education, and her PMHNP certification from West Texas A&M University in 2024.
(806) 404-1464 View (806) 404-1464
Photo of Maximus Anitube, Psychiatrist, MD
Maximus Anitube
Psychiatrist, MD
McKinney, TX 75069
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with extensive clinical training and experience across diverse areas of psychiatry. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults, offering compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. My practice emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on overall well-being and prescribing medications only when necessary. My goal is to empower clients by providing education, support, insight, and constructive feedback to help them navigate and overcome life’s challenges effectively, through collaboration and individualized care.
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with extensive clinical training and experience across diverse areas of psychiatry. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults, offering compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. My practice emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on overall well-being and prescribing medications only when necessary. My goal is to empower clients by providing education, support, insight, and constructive feedback to help them navigate and overcome life’s challenges effectively, through collaboration and individualized care.
(469) 327-1474 View (469) 327-1474
Photo of Kaylann Driver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kaylann Driver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure if what they are experiencing is part of being human or something more. They want clarity, steadiness, & a plan that feels thoughtful & personalized. They seek support that sees the whole person, honors their strengths, & doesn't pathologize every emotion. When a diagnosis is appropriate, we use it to guide treatment & provide direction, but it doesn't define who they are. The tools we use may include prescribed medications when they make sense. Most of all, they want to feel like themselves again with support that helps them stay grounded, capable, & confident.
Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure if what they are experiencing is part of being human or something more. They want clarity, steadiness, & a plan that feels thoughtful & personalized. They seek support that sees the whole person, honors their strengths, & doesn't pathologize every emotion. When a diagnosis is appropriate, we use it to guide treatment & provide direction, but it doesn't define who they are. The tools we use may include prescribed medications when they make sense. Most of all, they want to feel like themselves again with support that helps them stay grounded, capable, & confident.
(469) 224-1742 View (469) 224-1742

See more therapy options for 75069

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75069

30+

Average cost per session

$160

Psychiatrists in 75069 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
92% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
94% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 75069 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75069?

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.