Psychiatrists in 75081

Photo of Dayna Kinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dayna Kinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
(469) 564-5572 View (469) 564-5572
Photo of Bettina Cordova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bettina Cordova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
(737) 367-2147 View (737) 367-2147
Photo of Thomas L Shoaf, Psychiatrist, MD
Thomas L Shoaf
Psychiatrist, MD
Richardson, TX 75081
Dr. Shoaf is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Sleep Disorders and Forensics (legal, custody, and court-related matters). In his practice, Dr. Shoaf emphasizes the importance of whole health in a goal-oriented approach.
Dr. Shoaf is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Sleep Disorders and Forensics (legal, custody, and court-related matters). In his practice, Dr. Shoaf emphasizes the importance of whole health in a goal-oriented approach.
(469) 765-3117 View (469) 765-3117
Photo of Pearl Ezegrim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Pearl Ezegrim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions. I provide mental health care for patients across the life span– Toddlers, Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Seniors. Effective therapy is the main mental disorder treatment. But some people require a little more than just counseling. How would you determine whether taking medications would be beneficial? Do you experience mood instability, PTSD, anxiety, or depression? Do you think that life is difficult and that you are always sad? Do you simply want to feel joyful again?
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions. I provide mental health care for patients across the life span– Toddlers, Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Seniors. Effective therapy is the main mental disorder treatment. But some people require a little more than just counseling. How would you determine whether taking medications would be beneficial? Do you experience mood instability, PTSD, anxiety, or depression? Do you think that life is difficult and that you are always sad? Do you simply want to feel joyful again?
(469) 457-2516 View (469) 457-2516
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(469) 972-4433 View (469) 972-4433
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 Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life's challenges can be overwhelming when facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I'm Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion lies in providing holistic, integrated care that considers the whole person—mentally, physically, and socially. I believe in active listening and creating a safe space where you feel heard and validated. Together, we'll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and resources.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming when facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I'm Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion lies in providing holistic, integrated care that considers the whole person—mentally, physically, and socially. I believe in active listening and creating a safe space where you feel heard and validated. Together, we'll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and resources.
(469) 402-1878 View (469) 402-1878
Photo of Eva Kiara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Eva Kiara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, understanding approach to their mental health. They want to feel heard, supported, and equipped with tools to improve their well-being. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you regain control, find balance, and work toward a more fulfilling, healthier life. You deserve a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to face life’s challenges with confidence.
Life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, understanding approach to their mental health. They want to feel heard, supported, and equipped with tools to improve their well-being. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you regain control, find balance, and work toward a more fulfilling, healthier life. You deserve a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to face life’s challenges with confidence.
(469) 746-3740 View (469) 746-3740
Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Picture a place where your voice is not just heard but truly understood—a sanctuary where your experiences matter more than any label or diagnosis. If you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood challenges, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support, focusing on who you are as a person. My mission is to help you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles in a warm, non-judgmental space. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond symptom management to achieve lasting well-being.
Picture a place where your voice is not just heard but truly understood—a sanctuary where your experiences matter more than any label or diagnosis. If you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood challenges, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support, focusing on who you are as a person. My mission is to help you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles in a warm, non-judgmental space. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond symptom management to achieve lasting well-being.
(214) 393-5527 View (214) 393-5527
Photo of Nina Herring, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nina Herring
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
(469) 402-4991 View (469) 402-4991
Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
(469) 523-0747 View (469) 523-0747
Photo of Pearl Ezegrim - McGrim Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
McGrim Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Pearl Ezegrim, a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating diverse mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care to people of all ages, from toddlers to seniors. With over six years of experience, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and a Master's in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. I am well-versed in managing conditions like ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Alzheimer's, Dementia, and PTSD.
I'm Pearl Ezegrim, a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating diverse mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care to people of all ages, from toddlers to seniors. With over six years of experience, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and a Master's in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. I am well-versed in managing conditions like ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Alzheimer's, Dementia, and PTSD.
(469) 840-1976 View (469) 840-1976
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(469) 447-4043 View (469) 447-4043
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and your experiences genuinely matter? If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, you don't have to face it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and personal growth, aiming for lasting well-being beyond just temporary relief.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and your experiences genuinely matter? If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, you don't have to face it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and personal growth, aiming for lasting well-being beyond just temporary relief.
(469) 896-3662 View (469) 896-3662
Photo of Sabah Choudry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(469) 517-5200 View (469) 517-5200
Photo of Lindsey Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(469) 414-9920 View (469) 414-9920
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders. Yet, my primary focus is understanding who you are and how I can help—not just your diagnosis. I'm passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and respected. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your experiences. I strive to address the root causes of your challenges, not just manage symptoms. Together, we can navigate obstacles and work towards a healthier, happier you.
I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders. Yet, my primary focus is understanding who you are and how I can help—not just your diagnosis. I'm passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and respected. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your experiences. I strive to address the root causes of your challenges, not just manage symptoms. Together, we can navigate obstacles and work towards a healthier, happier you.
(469) 527-0840 View (469) 527-0840
Photo of Mohammad Faisal Alamgir - Alamgir Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Alamgir Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Richardson, TX 75081
Accepting NEW patients. ONLINE appointments available the SAME-DAY, 7 days a week, including late afternoons, evenings, and nights on both weekdays and weekends. Dr. Alamgir is board certified and experienced in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and PTSD. You can contact me directly, and I respond to my patients promptly. To begin the intake process or for questions about my services, send a message (by selecting "Email Us" and providing the requested information).
Accepting NEW patients. ONLINE appointments available the SAME-DAY, 7 days a week, including late afternoons, evenings, and nights on both weekdays and weekends. Dr. Alamgir is board certified and experienced in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and PTSD. You can contact me directly, and I respond to my patients promptly. To begin the intake process or for questions about my services, send a message (by selecting "Email Us" and providing the requested information).
(972) 695-3847 View (972) 695-3847
Photo of Jilji M Payikkattu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Jilji M Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081
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.
(817) 803-9350 View (817) 803-9350
Photo of Jilji Payikkattu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Jilji Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Richardson, TX 75081
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.
(469) 218-3820 View (469) 218-3820

See more therapy options for 75081

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75081

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 75081 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
88% ADHD
88% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
95% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 75081 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75081?

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.