Psychiatrists in 75093

Photo of Agnes M. Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist
Agnes M. Joseph
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Not accepting new clients
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist based in Dallas, Texas. I specialize in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders as well as exploring life transitions, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist based in Dallas, Texas. I specialize in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders as well as exploring life transitions, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
(214) 646-1002 View (214) 646-1002
Tobi Odunsi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Making the decision to seek a psychiatrist is not always easy and can take some time. I'm glad that you are taking the step to work on your mental health. I take a collaborative, patient centered and evidence-based approach when treating my patients. My goal is to empower patients to better understand their mental health, advocate for themselves and improve their quality of life. I have a special interest in working with pregnant and post-partum patients but also see patients who are not pregnant or post partum.
Making the decision to seek a psychiatrist is not always easy and can take some time. I'm glad that you are taking the step to work on your mental health. I take a collaborative, patient centered and evidence-based approach when treating my patients. My goal is to empower patients to better understand their mental health, advocate for themselves and improve their quality of life. I have a special interest in working with pregnant and post-partum patients but also see patients who are not pregnant or post partum.
(469) 777-4691 View (469) 777-4691
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Stephanie Ukoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
(469) 972-8357 View (469) 972-8357
Photo of Mary Francis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
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 Drew Edward Murray, MD, Psychiatrist
Drew Edward Murray
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
(469) 966-8665 View (469) 966-8665
Photo of Rahman Farishta, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rahman Farishta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Are you suffering from ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or any other mental health issue? Are you tired of waiting to see a mental health provider? Do you need medication management for an already diagnosed issue? Are you seeking a second opinion or an advice? Are you tired of trying/taking several medicines? Pinnacle Psychiatry can help provide immediate treatment. Call 940-629-7201 for more information. Schedule an appointment online with just a few clicks at www.pinnacle-psychiatry.com. We provide virtual/telemedicine visits to adults but can also accommodate an in-person visit.
Are you suffering from ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or any other mental health issue? Are you tired of waiting to see a mental health provider? Do you need medication management for an already diagnosed issue? Are you seeking a second opinion or an advice? Are you tired of trying/taking several medicines? Pinnacle Psychiatry can help provide immediate treatment. Call 940-629-7201 for more information. Schedule an appointment online with just a few clicks at www.pinnacle-psychiatry.com. We provide virtual/telemedicine visits to adults but can also accommodate an in-person visit.
(469) 529-8016 View (469) 529-8016
Photo of Jean Osas Awosoga - Inspire Mental Health Solutions, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inspire Mental Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Jean Awosoga, PMHNP-BC. A graduate of Walden University with a master's degree in mental health nursing. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of clinical experience in nursing. I am very passionate about patient care, safety, well-being, and patient's privacy. I always keeps in mind the personalization and uniqueness of every patient.
Jean Awosoga, PMHNP-BC. A graduate of Walden University with a master's degree in mental health nursing. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of clinical experience in nursing. I am very passionate about patient care, safety, well-being, and patient's privacy. I always keeps in mind the personalization and uniqueness of every patient.
(469) 727-9792 View (469) 727-9792
Photo of Philip David Korenman, MD, Psychiatrist
Philip David Korenman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
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 Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(469) 557-4714 View (469) 557-4714
Photo of Mehvesh Afrina, MD, Psychiatrist
Mehvesh Afrina
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am a Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist practicing psychiatry since 2008. I am committed to improving the wellness of my patients through a flexible and responsive approach. Special interests include holistic medicine, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and women's issues. I treat each and every one one of my patients as the unique person that they are.
I am a Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist practicing psychiatry since 2008. I am committed to improving the wellness of my patients through a flexible and responsive approach. Special interests include holistic medicine, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and women's issues. I treat each and every one one of my patients as the unique person that they are.
(972) 473-7444 View (972) 473-7444
Photo of Tonya Williams, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tonya Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Meet Tonya Williams, an esteemed professional with a doctorate in nursing practice and dual board certifications in family psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Congratulations on taking the first step toward addressing your mental health needs! I'm thrilled to extend a warm welcome and accompany you on this journey.
Meet Tonya Williams, an esteemed professional with a doctorate in nursing practice and dual board certifications in family psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Congratulations on taking the first step toward addressing your mental health needs! I'm thrilled to extend a warm welcome and accompany you on this journey.
(214) 247-1358 x256 View (214) 247-1358 x256
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha - Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
(214) 466-7630 View (214) 466-7630
Photo of Elena Gonzalez Ammatuna - Serena Sessions Psychiatry PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Serena Sessions Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Serena Sessions is a Psychiatric Clinic that treats adults, offering specialized mental health care, customized to the preferences and needs of each patient. My approach is to provide a safe environment to share and explore any challenging issues and help you find ways to create a meaningful and fulfilled life. I can help you walk through life transitions, conflicts, family stressors. I can also help you with conditions, chronic or acute, that may need medications.
Serena Sessions is a Psychiatric Clinic that treats adults, offering specialized mental health care, customized to the preferences and needs of each patient. My approach is to provide a safe environment to share and explore any challenging issues and help you find ways to create a meaningful and fulfilled life. I can help you walk through life transitions, conflicts, family stressors. I can also help you with conditions, chronic or acute, that may need medications.
View
Photo of Joyce Mwaniki - Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.
Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.
(469) 529-8454 View (469) 529-8454
Photo of Cherylonda Ramzy, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cherylonda Ramzy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Cherylonda Ramzy is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington with honors. She is a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years experience in healthcare treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. Mrs. Ramzy has a special interest and is adept in treating many psychiatric illnesses. Cherylonda is passionate about providing warm, patient-centered and compassionate psychiatric care. She has very strong clinical skills and works with her patients as a team to achieve the best outcomes.
Cherylonda Ramzy is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington with honors. She is a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years experience in healthcare treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. Mrs. Ramzy has a special interest and is adept in treating many psychiatric illnesses. Cherylonda is passionate about providing warm, patient-centered and compassionate psychiatric care. She has very strong clinical skills and works with her patients as a team to achieve the best outcomes.
(469) 382-5956 View (469) 382-5956
Sangita Yagnik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in screening, diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders in pediatric, adolescent, adult, and elderly. I believe in a multi-faceted comprehensive, evidence-based, and holistic approach. I strive to include in a treatment plan, a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes for the optimal result. I bring compassion, empathy, dedication, & holistic caring to your healing process.
I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in screening, diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders in pediatric, adolescent, adult, and elderly. I believe in a multi-faceted comprehensive, evidence-based, and holistic approach. I strive to include in a treatment plan, a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes for the optimal result. I bring compassion, empathy, dedication, & holistic caring to your healing process.
(469) 848-4459 View (469) 848-4459
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(210) 361-3691 View (210) 361-3691
Photo of Paresh Atu Jaini, DO, Psychiatrist
Paresh Atu Jaini
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Hi! I'm Dr. Jaini, a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in screening, diagnosing, preventing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults.
Hi! I'm Dr. Jaini, a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in screening, diagnosing, preventing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults.
(469) 672-5799 View (469) 672-5799
Photo of Paul Wright - IntegrityMind Psychiatry - Paul Wright MD, MD, Psychiatrist
IntegrityMind Psychiatry - Paul Wright MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Dr. Paul Wright has specialized in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He utilizes a unique, holistic approach that factors in lifestyle, environment, sleep habits, diet/exercise along with experiences, trauma, diagnoses and symptoms of mental illness. As well as medication management, Dr. Wright is fully committed to allocating the investment and attention that is required in giving individual and family psychotherapy.
Dr. Paul Wright has specialized in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He utilizes a unique, holistic approach that factors in lifestyle, environment, sleep habits, diet/exercise along with experiences, trauma, diagnoses and symptoms of mental illness. As well as medication management, Dr. Wright is fully committed to allocating the investment and attention that is required in giving individual and family psychotherapy.
(817) 631-6366 View (817) 631-6366
Photo of Jackie Michael - Access Behavioral Care: Faith Health and Wellness, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Access Behavioral Care: Faith Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
(469) 940-7242 View (469) 940-7242
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75093

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 75093 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
86% Depression
81% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
70% Trauma and PTSD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 75093 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75093?

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.