Psychiatrists in 75104

Photo of Oluwaseun Ojo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Oluwaseun Ojo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am an empathetic provider who serve populations with depression disorder,anxiety disorder,bipolar disorder,Schizophrenia, personality disorders,ADHD,cognitive impairment and trauma.Most patients need a provider that listens,empathize and treat in a holistic manner.
I am an empathetic provider who serve populations with depression disorder,anxiety disorder,bipolar disorder,Schizophrenia, personality disorders,ADHD,cognitive impairment and trauma.Most patients need a provider that listens,empathize and treat in a holistic manner.
(469) 819-3490 View (469) 819-3490
Photo of Cynthia Ofeinmun - Brooks psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brooks psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
At Brooks Psychiatry PLLC, we provide mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. Our ideal client is an individual struggling with conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Trauma, schizpprenia, etc. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck or frustrated with the past treatment that didn't work, and they seek personalised care that addresses their unique needs. They want a compassionate provider who listens, offers flexible telehealth options, and helps them regain control of their lives. They aim to stabilize mood, reduce stress, and improve relationships and daily functioning with the right support and treatment.
At Brooks Psychiatry PLLC, we provide mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. Our ideal client is an individual struggling with conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Trauma, schizpprenia, etc. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck or frustrated with the past treatment that didn't work, and they seek personalised care that addresses their unique needs. They want a compassionate provider who listens, offers flexible telehealth options, and helps them regain control of their lives. They aim to stabilize mood, reduce stress, and improve relationships and daily functioning with the right support and treatment.
(469) 966-4607 View (469) 966-4607
Photo of Atem Dibaki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Atem Dibaki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Mental health knows no socio-economic boundaries. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who takes pride in providing holistic individualized care across the life span. Our model at Leanonme Psychiatry is to be the shoulders you can lean and depend on.
Mental health knows no socio-economic boundaries. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who takes pride in providing holistic individualized care across the life span. Our model at Leanonme Psychiatry is to be the shoulders you can lean and depend on.
(972) 299-8965 View (972) 299-8965
Photo of Keisha Witherspoon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Keisha Witherspoon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
​At Witherspoon Mental Health And Wellness, PLLC, we are committed to providing you and your loved ones with exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. We are Located in Cedar Hill. Witherspoon Mental Health And Wellness, PLLC is known to be the best Mental Health Clinic in the area. We believe that our patients deserve the best care. We make an effort to make sure that you always feel welcomed and at ease. Whether you’re coming in for a simple medication management followup or a more complex initial psychiatric evaluation, our provider has the skills and resources to manage all of your mental health needs.
​At Witherspoon Mental Health And Wellness, PLLC, we are committed to providing you and your loved ones with exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. We are Located in Cedar Hill. Witherspoon Mental Health And Wellness, PLLC is known to be the best Mental Health Clinic in the area. We believe that our patients deserve the best care. We make an effort to make sure that you always feel welcomed and at ease. Whether you’re coming in for a simple medication management followup or a more complex initial psychiatric evaluation, our provider has the skills and resources to manage all of your mental health needs.
(469) 214-6322 View (469) 214-6322
Photo of Maria Eva Olan-Rogers - Grace Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Asking for help when you're not feeling well mentally is a vital step toward healing and wellness, not a sign of weakness. Mental health struggles are common, affecting everyone at some point in their lives. Seeking support can lead to better understanding, coping strategies, and resilience. It fosters connection, reduces feelings of isolation, and encourages open dialogue about mental health, which is essential for breaking stigma. Remember, reaching out for help demonstrates courage and self-awareness, empowering you to take charge of your well-being. Prioritizing your mental health is a strength, not a shameful act.
Asking for help when you're not feeling well mentally is a vital step toward healing and wellness, not a sign of weakness. Mental health struggles are common, affecting everyone at some point in their lives. Seeking support can lead to better understanding, coping strategies, and resilience. It fosters connection, reduces feelings of isolation, and encourages open dialogue about mental health, which is essential for breaking stigma. Remember, reaching out for help demonstrates courage and self-awareness, empowering you to take charge of your well-being. Prioritizing your mental health is a strength, not a shameful act.
(469) 737-9812 View (469) 737-9812
Photo of Fadekemi Olude, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
(972) 573-9755 View (972) 573-9755
Photo of Augustina Ogbonna, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Augustina Ogbonna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am a licensed psych NP. I received my masters from Walden University. I am available to help evaluate and treat your mental health needs
Hello, I am a licensed psych NP. I received my masters from Walden University. I am available to help evaluate and treat your mental health needs
(469) 871-5216 View (469) 871-5216
Photo of Magdalene Osunde, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP, PMHNP
Magdalene Osunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients: Ages 7 Through Geriatrics. Medicare, Medicaid, BCBS, United Health, And Many More. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. I perform initial Psychiatric evaluations, Diagnosis, treatment with ongoing medication management for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use, ADHD, mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and many more not listed here. I also precept Psych Nurse Practitioner Students.
Accepting New Patients: Ages 7 Through Geriatrics. Medicare, Medicaid, BCBS, United Health, And Many More. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. I perform initial Psychiatric evaluations, Diagnosis, treatment with ongoing medication management for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use, ADHD, mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and many more not listed here. I also precept Psych Nurse Practitioner Students.
(972) 293-9795 View (972) 293-9795
Photo of Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
(469) 871-5046 View (469) 871-5046
Photo of Omotayo Theresa Gbengaojo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Omotayo Theresa Gbengaojo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
At Rehoboth mental health and psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional and psychological concerns, our outpatient clinic offers a safe and confidential environment where you can begin your path to healing. We work collaboratively with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals.
At Rehoboth mental health and psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional and psychological concerns, our outpatient clinic offers a safe and confidential environment where you can begin your path to healing. We work collaboratively with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals.
(469) 529-8197 View (469) 529-8197
Photo of Omotayo Gbengaojo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Omotayo Gbengaojo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
My ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or addiction. They may struggle with emotional regulation, behavioral issues, or past trauma and seek professional guidance to regain control of their life. Their goal is to find stability, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall well-being. They want a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to heal and be heard, where they can build resilience and work toward a fulfilling, balanced life with the support of evidence-based treatment.
My ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or addiction. They may struggle with emotional regulation, behavioral issues, or past trauma and seek professional guidance to regain control of their life. Their goal is to find stability, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall well-being. They want a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to heal and be heard, where they can build resilience and work toward a fulfilling, balanced life with the support of evidence-based treatment.
(346) 572-9476 View (346) 572-9476
Photo of Nicholas Glaze @ Beyond Wellness Total Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Nicholas Glaze @ Beyond Wellness Total Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Nicholas Glaze APRN, PMHNP-BC is an experienced psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to fostering healing and empowerment. With a collaborative and non-judgmental style, we provide a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings. We believe in uncovering strengths and empowering clients to overcome challenges. If you're seeking a genuine ally on your journey to mental well-being, Nicholas offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach that includes medication evaluation and management, along with diverse therapeutic modalities.
Nicholas Glaze APRN, PMHNP-BC is an experienced psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to fostering healing and empowerment. With a collaborative and non-judgmental style, we provide a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings. We believe in uncovering strengths and empowering clients to overcome challenges. If you're seeking a genuine ally on your journey to mental well-being, Nicholas offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach that includes medication evaluation and management, along with diverse therapeutic modalities.
(972) 694-7899 View (972) 694-7899
Photo of Adeline Abam - Adelson Behavioral/Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Adelson Behavioral/Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr Abam, DNP is passionately dedicated to provide comprehensive psychiatric services. I manage Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, & Schizophrenia . If you want someone to listen and understand. I am here. You don’t have to walk your health journey alone. Mental health is REAL. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. I will treat you as an individual and make an individualized your plan for you. I have over 10 years experience in Medication Management. I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am dual-licensed as PMHNP & FNP.
Dr Abam, DNP is passionately dedicated to provide comprehensive psychiatric services. I manage Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, & Schizophrenia . If you want someone to listen and understand. I am here. You don’t have to walk your health journey alone. Mental health is REAL. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. I will treat you as an individual and make an individualized your plan for you. I have over 10 years experience in Medication Management. I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am dual-licensed as PMHNP & FNP.
(469) 218-2722 View (469) 218-2722
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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) 871-7383 View (469) 871-7383
Photo of Lovette Okoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Lovette Okoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new clients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new clients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(214) 624-6005 View (214) 624-6005
Photo of Dr. Esiah Allen (Medication Management Provider), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Esiah Allen (Medication Management Provider)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
******ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS- Ages 6-55 YEARS OLD***** Dr. Esiah Allen, owner of PYOU'RE Life Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, is a doctorally prepared Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evaluating, diagnosing, & treating various mental health conditions. Dr. Allen treats CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, & ADULTS ages 6-55 yrs old. Her service area includes all of Texas including DFW & surrounding cities. Dr. Allen is proud to provide a high-quality level of customer service, healthcare experience, & commitment to health & wellness. Her goal is to help her patients feel better as quickly as possible!
******ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS- Ages 6-55 YEARS OLD***** Dr. Esiah Allen, owner of PYOU'RE Life Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, is a doctorally prepared Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evaluating, diagnosing, & treating various mental health conditions. Dr. Allen treats CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, & ADULTS ages 6-55 yrs old. Her service area includes all of Texas including DFW & surrounding cities. Dr. Allen is proud to provide a high-quality level of customer service, healthcare experience, & commitment to health & wellness. Her goal is to help her patients feel better as quickly as possible!
(972) 325-7998 View (972) 325-7998
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(972) 308-0088 View (972) 308-0088
Photo of Gidion Buma - Brightlight Oasis Psychiatry and Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Brightlight Oasis Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We provide an Intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance use disorder(Opioid, Alcohol, Benzo, Meth) and other mental health disorders. We diagnose and provide medication management, and psychotherapy to those struggling with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep disorder, Trauma, Bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, and more. There is no Waitlist and appointments are usually within 24-48 hours. We are currently accepting new patients from Oregon, Texas, and Arizona.
We provide an Intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance use disorder(Opioid, Alcohol, Benzo, Meth) and other mental health disorders. We diagnose and provide medication management, and psychotherapy to those struggling with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep disorder, Trauma, Bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, and more. There is no Waitlist and appointments are usually within 24-48 hours. We are currently accepting new patients from Oregon, Texas, and Arizona.
(817) 541-0425 View (817) 541-0425
Rehoboth mental health and psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
(469) 523-5418 View (469) 523-5418
Photo of Ronnie Scott Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ronnie Scott Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
(469) 249-0624 View (469) 249-0624
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See more therapy options for 75104

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75104

20+

Average cost per session

$194

Psychiatrists in 75104 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
82% Depression
77% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Cigna and Evernorth
81% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 75104 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75104?

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.