Psychiatrists in 75075

Photo of Rodah Symekah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Rodah Symekah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Plano, TX 75075
Rodah is a compassionate board-certified mental health nurse practitioner from Dallas, Texas. She specializes in addressing mental health challenges such as Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar, Insomnia, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, OCD/Eating disorders, and medication management. You can always count on Rodah’s exceptional dedication to enhance the quality of life for individuals within her community. Rodah has vast experience and expertise in Geriatric, Adult, Adolescent, and Pediatric care, and she is renowned for her unwavering compassion and ability to connect with her clients.
Rodah is a compassionate board-certified mental health nurse practitioner from Dallas, Texas. She specializes in addressing mental health challenges such as Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar, Insomnia, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, OCD/Eating disorders, and medication management. You can always count on Rodah’s exceptional dedication to enhance the quality of life for individuals within her community. Rodah has vast experience and expertise in Geriatric, Adult, Adolescent, and Pediatric care, and she is renowned for her unwavering compassion and ability to connect with her clients.
(469) 972-0012 View (469) 972-0012
Photo of Ameena Isa, Psychiatrist, MD, MSCS
Ameena Isa
Psychiatrist, MD, MSCS
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Our practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable and confidential environment to explore evaluation and treatment options. We evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues, which may be adversely affecting family relationships. We also evaluate for educational success and the development of appropriate social skills. We are available to provide professional opinion and begin this process with you. We look forward to working with you!
Our practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable and confidential environment to explore evaluation and treatment options. We evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues, which may be adversely affecting family relationships. We also evaluate for educational success and the development of appropriate social skills. We are available to provide professional opinion and begin this process with you. We look forward to working with you!
(469) 478-2867 View (469) 478-2867
Photo of Jessica White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jessica White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Plano, TX 75075
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my focus is to provide holistic, patient-centered care that supports mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults, specializing in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic attacks. I also have experience treating eating disorders, trauma-related conditions, and mood disorders, with a special interest in working with young people as they navigate important life transitions.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my focus is to provide holistic, patient-centered care that supports mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults, specializing in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic attacks. I also have experience treating eating disorders, trauma-related conditions, and mood disorders, with a special interest in working with young people as they navigate important life transitions.
(469) 393-7783 View (469) 393-7783
Photo of Dr. Ferdinand Akoko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Ferdinand Akoko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Plano, TX 75075
Welcome! I’m Dr. Ferdinand Akoko DNP, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, and adjustment disorders. My practice focuses on providing thoughtful medication management and collaborative care in a compassionate, nonjudgmental space. In our initial sessions, we’ll work together to build a trusting therapeutic relationship and develop a tailored plan. I take an integrative approach, which allows me to consider all aspects of your health and well-being as we work toward lasting solutions.
Welcome! I’m Dr. Ferdinand Akoko DNP, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, and adjustment disorders. My practice focuses on providing thoughtful medication management and collaborative care in a compassionate, nonjudgmental space. In our initial sessions, we’ll work together to build a trusting therapeutic relationship and develop a tailored plan. I take an integrative approach, which allows me to consider all aspects of your health and well-being as we work toward lasting solutions.
(254) 329-2600 View (254) 329-2600
Photo of Dr. John Kamphaus, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. John Kamphaus
Psychiatrist, MD
Plano, TX 75075
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, and I work with adolescents and adults to address bipolar disorder, depression, mood disorders, panic attacks, and psychosis. I take a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment, helping individuals manage symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, and I work with adolescents and adults to address bipolar disorder, depression, mood disorders, panic attacks, and psychosis. I take a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment, helping individuals manage symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
(469) 871-8788 View (469) 871-8788
Photo of Dr. Ran Friedman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ran Friedman
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
While each individual is unique in their biological makeup and the circumstances that challenge them, specialized clinical experience and Evidence-Based Psychiatry can help patients regain their optimal mental health and level of function. My goal is to deliver this optimal outcome to every patient in our clinic.
While each individual is unique in their biological makeup and the circumstances that challenge them, specialized clinical experience and Evidence-Based Psychiatry can help patients regain their optimal mental health and level of function. My goal is to deliver this optimal outcome to every patient in our clinic.
(469) 698-4802 View (469) 698-4802
Photo of Jilji Payikkattu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jilji Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
(214) 949-4616 View (214) 949-4616
Photo of Mary Francis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mary Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
(469) 228-8773 View (469) 228-8773
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Service, Psychiatrist, MD
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Service
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
(469) 991-1636 View (469) 991-1636
Photo of Philip David Korenman, Psychiatrist, MD
Philip David Korenman
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, and have been practicing in North Dallas and Plano for over 30 years. My specialty is mood disorders (including Bipolar Disorder), but I also treat anxiety disorders, eating disorders, ADD/ ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship and situational stress (including gender issues), and virtually any other situations that need professional consultation. While not an Addictions Psychiatrist, I have treated alcohol and substance use disorders for my entire career. Many substance use issues benefit from medication judiciously prescribed to assist in preventing cravings or relapse behaviors or to treat co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, and have been practicing in North Dallas and Plano for over 30 years. My specialty is mood disorders (including Bipolar Disorder), but I also treat anxiety disorders, eating disorders, ADD/ ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship and situational stress (including gender issues), and virtually any other situations that need professional consultation. While not an Addictions Psychiatrist, I have treated alcohol and substance use disorders for my entire career. Many substance use issues benefit from medication judiciously prescribed to assist in preventing cravings or relapse behaviors or to treat co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
(973) 832-0857 View (973) 832-0857
Photo of Similoluwa Olushola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Similoluwa Olushola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Simi Olushola helps individuals and families across Texas take charge of their mental health through personalized, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, she partners with patients to navigate challenges related to anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, offering compassionate medication management and supportive treatment plans tailored to each stage of life. Simi treats children, adolescents, and adults, and provides a safe, respectful space where clients of all backgrounds can begin their journey toward healing.
Simi Olushola helps individuals and families across Texas take charge of their mental health through personalized, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, she partners with patients to navigate challenges related to anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, offering compassionate medication management and supportive treatment plans tailored to each stage of life. Simi treats children, adolescents, and adults, and provides a safe, respectful space where clients of all backgrounds can begin their journey toward healing.
(469) 599-2949 View (469) 599-2949
Photo of Jennifer Kent Autry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Kent Autry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
(469) 281-9350 View (469) 281-9350
Photo of Michael Millstone - Dr. Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
(214) 206-3421 View (214) 206-3421
Photo of Tyeshia Battles - Diana Health - Tyeshia Battles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Diana Health - Tyeshia Battles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My mission is to ensure that every woman has equal access to quality care, accurate health education, and the autonomy to make informed decisions about her well-being. With over a decade of behavioral health and psychiatric experience prior to becoming a PMHNP, I bring a deep understanding and compassion to my work in mental health. I am passionate about ensuring that women have equal access to quality care, education, and autonomy in their health decisions. I combine clinical excellence with a patient-centered approach, empowering individuals through comprehensive and compassionate care.
My mission is to ensure that every woman has equal access to quality care, accurate health education, and the autonomy to make informed decisions about her well-being. With over a decade of behavioral health and psychiatric experience prior to becoming a PMHNP, I bring a deep understanding and compassion to my work in mental health. I am passionate about ensuring that women have equal access to quality care, education, and autonomy in their health decisions. I combine clinical excellence with a patient-centered approach, empowering individuals through comprehensive and compassionate care.
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
(469) 454-1072 View (469) 454-1072
Photo of Christine Zethraus - Christine @ Uphealing Mental Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Christine @ Uphealing Mental Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive mental health care tailored to the unique needs of each individual. My ideal client is someone who is courageously seeking support to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other mental health issues. These individuals often grapple with feelings of isolation, confusion, and frustration as they navigate their mental health journeys. My approach is centered around creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard + respected + empowered.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive mental health care tailored to the unique needs of each individual. My ideal client is someone who is courageously seeking support to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other mental health issues. These individuals often grapple with feelings of isolation, confusion, and frustration as they navigate their mental health journeys. My approach is centered around creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard + respected + empowered.
(817) 631-6566 View (817) 631-6566
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. I provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. I provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
(214) 544-9287 View (214) 544-9287

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Rose Ijioma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rose Ijioma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Hi, I'm Rose Ijioma, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to help you meet your goals. I want to hear what is causing your discomfort, learn how long you have been experiencing your challenges, and then collaborate with you, your family, and medical providers to develop the best treatment plan to meet your goals and provide relief.
Hi, I'm Rose Ijioma, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to help you meet your goals. I want to hear what is causing your discomfort, learn how long you have been experiencing your challenges, and then collaborate with you, your family, and medical providers to develop the best treatment plan to meet your goals and provide relief.
(469) 564-1806 View (469) 564-1806
Photo of Fathima Chowdhury, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Fathima Chowdhury
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Little Elm, TX 75068
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders that interfere with your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, emotional ups and downs, or past trauma? Help is here. As a dedicated and experienced psychiatric physician associate, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I understand that mental health challenges can affect every aspect of your life, from relationships and work to personal fulfillment. My goal is to help you regain stability, clarity, and confidence through a patient-centered approach.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders that interfere with your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, emotional ups and downs, or past trauma? Help is here. As a dedicated and experienced psychiatric physician associate, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I understand that mental health challenges can affect every aspect of your life, from relationships and work to personal fulfillment. My goal is to help you regain stability, clarity, and confidence through a patient-centered approach.
(470) 281-3358 View (470) 281-3358
Photo of Merissa McFadden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Merissa McFadden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Merissa McFadden, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate board certified psych nurse practitioner who is driven by a passion to connect with patients and help them achieve lasting stability and overall improved quality of life. Merissa holds a Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. She has also achieved a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from the University of Incarnate Word.
Merissa McFadden, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate board certified psych nurse practitioner who is driven by a passion to connect with patients and help them achieve lasting stability and overall improved quality of life. Merissa holds a Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. She has also achieved a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from the University of Incarnate Word.
(972) 737-1572 View (972) 737-1572

See more therapy options for 75075

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75075

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 75075 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
94% Depression
94% Bipolar Disorder
88% ADHD
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Sleep or Insomnia
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 75075 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Male
45% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75075?

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.