Psychiatrists in 75180

Photo of Elizabeth Otucho, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elizabeth Otucho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Are you looking for compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that truly understands your needs? I'm Elizabeth Otucho, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience (since 2009). I specialize in medication management for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, and mood instability.
Are you looking for compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that truly understands your needs? I'm Elizabeth Otucho, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience (since 2009). I specialize in medication management for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, and mood instability.
(972) 764-8680 View (972) 764-8680
Photo of Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
(817) 646-4959 View (817) 646-4959
Photo of Jilji Payikkattu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Jilji Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
(469) 991-2588 View (469) 991-2588
Photo of NJ Njideka Domrufus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
NJ Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(972) 559-3273 View (972) 559-3273

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
(817) 383-8675 View (817) 383-8675
Photo of Yemi Ononogbu - LTA Psychiatric Wellness Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
LTA Psychiatric Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Grapevine, TX 76051
I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by stress, irritability, anxiety, or the emotional ups and downs of daily life. Many of the patients I support are seeking better sleep, steadier moods, and healthier coping skills rather than staying stuck in unhelpful patterns. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can regain balance, strengthen your confidence, and learn practical tools to feel more in control of your life and your future.
I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by stress, irritability, anxiety, or the emotional ups and downs of daily life. Many of the patients I support are seeking better sleep, steadier moods, and healthier coping skills rather than staying stuck in unhelpful patterns. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can regain balance, strengthen your confidence, and learn practical tools to feel more in control of your life and your future.
(682) 310-2326 View (682) 310-2326
Photo of Lola Omokpo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Lola Omokpo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle that’s hard to break? Maybe you’ve been carrying emotional weight for far too long, and you’re just looking for someone to really listen—someone who gets it. I work with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, sleep problems, PTSD, and many more. My clients often say they just want to feel like themselves again, to find peace, and to finally breathe without feeling weighed down. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle that’s hard to break? Maybe you’ve been carrying emotional weight for far too long, and you’re just looking for someone to really listen—someone who gets it. I work with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, sleep problems, PTSD, and many more. My clients often say they just want to feel like themselves again, to find peace, and to finally breathe without feeling weighed down. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.
(512) 430-1800 View (512) 430-1800
Photo of Justin Nepa - Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Dallas, TX 75204
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
(469) 640-4861 View (469) 640-4861
Photo of Olga Khmelinina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Olga Khmelinina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I take time to get to know my clients and build trust and respect. I see mental health as a journey, and I’m here to walk that path with you—at your pace and in a way that works for you. I listen carefully to understand your story, what matters to you, and what you want to achieve. Together, we’ll create a care plan that fits your needs. My goal is to support you as a whole person, not just treat symptoms.
I take time to get to know my clients and build trust and respect. I see mental health as a journey, and I’m here to walk that path with you—at your pace and in a way that works for you. I listen carefully to understand your story, what matters to you, and what you want to achieve. Together, we’ll create a care plan that fits your needs. My goal is to support you as a whole person, not just treat symptoms.
(972) 200-8144 View (972) 200-8144
Photo of Dr. Shalini Shetty, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shalini Shetty
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75248
Dr Shalini Shetty is dual Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as General psychiatry. Dr. Shetty uses a customized approach to tailor the treatment care plans to fit each individual’s needs in a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. At Nurturing Minds Psychiatry, we strongly believe in shared decision making which is a key component of patient-centered care. There is no universal approach to behavioral health. We believe that each individual is unique.. We use evidence-based approach to meet an individual’s needs.
Dr Shalini Shetty is dual Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as General psychiatry. Dr. Shetty uses a customized approach to tailor the treatment care plans to fit each individual’s needs in a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. At Nurturing Minds Psychiatry, we strongly believe in shared decision making which is a key component of patient-centered care. There is no universal approach to behavioral health. We believe that each individual is unique.. We use evidence-based approach to meet an individual’s needs.
(972) 440-1049 View (972) 440-1049
Photo of Dr. Zian Omene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Dr. Zian Omene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Dallas, TX 75211
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
(817) 567-2997 View (817) 567-2997
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 Humaira Khalid, Psychiatrist, MD
Humaira Khalid
Psychiatrist, MD
Plano, TX 75024
Dr. Humaira Khalid is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 7 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, office based Opioid treatment with Suboxone/Buprenorphine and other common mental health problems. The clinic also offers esketamine treatment and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services for eligible patients. She accepts various insurances and self-pay patients with ages 15 and above.
Dr. Humaira Khalid is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 7 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, office based Opioid treatment with Suboxone/Buprenorphine and other common mental health problems. The clinic also offers esketamine treatment and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services for eligible patients. She accepts various insurances and self-pay patients with ages 15 and above.
(972) 608-3013 View (972) 608-3013
Photo of Alexandra Hope Antonioli, Psychiatrist, MD , PhD
Alexandra Hope Antonioli
Psychiatrist, MD , PhD
Serves Area
Navigating therapy or starting new medication can be daunting. I aim to cultivate a safe online space where patients can feel free from judgment. We will collaborate on personalized treatment plans aligned with your goals. Specializing in aiding individuals facing life transitions or acute stressors, I find fulfillment in assisting with challenges like dating, divorce, job transitions, infertility, and coping with loss among others. Therapy can be intense at times so I also ask my patients to really set aside time in their schedule where they can focus on themselves and have space after the session to reflect.
Navigating therapy or starting new medication can be daunting. I aim to cultivate a safe online space where patients can feel free from judgment. We will collaborate on personalized treatment plans aligned with your goals. Specializing in aiding individuals facing life transitions or acute stressors, I find fulfillment in assisting with challenges like dating, divorce, job transitions, infertility, and coping with loss among others. Therapy can be intense at times so I also ask my patients to really set aside time in their schedule where they can focus on themselves and have space after the session to reflect.
(469) 286-0834 View (469) 286-0834
Photo of Nicholas Gregory Heyne, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicholas Gregory Heyne
Psychiatrist, MD
Irving, TX 75062
I am a triple board-certified, triple fellowship (adult, child/adolescent, addiction, & forensic psychiatry) trained physician. I am an educator to local residency/fellowship programs, as well as to local medical schools and universities. As a doctor of medicine (MD), my aim is to empower my patients through education, therapy, and when appropriate, medication management. My comprehensive background allows me the opportunity to address the struggles and suffering one endures through mental illness in a complete, caring, and evidence-based manner.
I am a triple board-certified, triple fellowship (adult, child/adolescent, addiction, & forensic psychiatry) trained physician. I am an educator to local residency/fellowship programs, as well as to local medical schools and universities. As a doctor of medicine (MD), my aim is to empower my patients through education, therapy, and when appropriate, medication management. My comprehensive background allows me the opportunity to address the struggles and suffering one endures through mental illness in a complete, caring, and evidence-based manner.
(972) 325-5904 View (972) 325-5904
Photo of Dr. Laura Beard, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Laura Beard
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
Your psychiatric care should do more than alleviate your symptoms. It should guide you toward a greater level of clarity and peace of mind than you had previously experienced. I offer comprehensive care in both psychotherapy and medication management, according to your needs and preferences. I will engage with you at your own pace, whether you are seeking direct answers to specific questions or a healing space for an in depth exploration of your personal history and emotions, or both. I have the experience and expertise to empower you to reach your goals.
Your psychiatric care should do more than alleviate your symptoms. It should guide you toward a greater level of clarity and peace of mind than you had previously experienced. I offer comprehensive care in both psychotherapy and medication management, according to your needs and preferences. I will engage with you at your own pace, whether you are seeking direct answers to specific questions or a healing space for an in depth exploration of your personal history and emotions, or both. I have the experience and expertise to empower you to reach your goals.
(214) 691-9090 View (214) 691-9090
Photo of Michele Wang, Psychiatrist, MD
Michele Wang
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
My primary goal is to help people achieve a state of wellness and the ability to live life to their full potential. I am licensed to see clients in Hawai'i, California and Texas. I worked as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Hawai'i, Manoa and I volunteered with the Entertainment Industries Council which advocates for accurate portrayal of mental health and substance abuse issues in entertainment and media. I know what type of stigma can be associated with mental health issues and what barriers my clients face on their path to wellness.
My primary goal is to help people achieve a state of wellness and the ability to live life to their full potential. I am licensed to see clients in Hawai'i, California and Texas. I worked as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Hawai'i, Manoa and I volunteered with the Entertainment Industries Council which advocates for accurate portrayal of mental health and substance abuse issues in entertainment and media. I know what type of stigma can be associated with mental health issues and what barriers my clients face on their path to wellness.
(512) 886-9156 View (512) 886-9156
Photo of Dr. Marie Taniform, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Marie Taniform
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed and lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, or sometimes cry for no reason? Do you have problems focusing on school, work, or life and wonder why you are so forgetful, unable to concentrate and easily distracted? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss that have left you anxious and on the edge, or do you find it difficult to fall asleep at night and feel exhausted the next day?is your child defiant and refusing to cooperate? I can help you find that right balance to continue living your life optimally.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed and lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, or sometimes cry for no reason? Do you have problems focusing on school, work, or life and wonder why you are so forgetful, unable to concentrate and easily distracted? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss that have left you anxious and on the edge, or do you find it difficult to fall asleep at night and feel exhausted the next day?is your child defiant and refusing to cooperate? I can help you find that right balance to continue living your life optimally.
(737) 299-0858 View (737) 299-0858
Photo of Catherine O'Connor - Treat Now Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Treat Now Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012
We are specialized in treating major depression, anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Panic attacks, and others We treat substance abuse disorders with Suboxone and other medications. our goal is to treat our patients through personalized, wellness recovery-focused services and treatments, designed to address their unique circumstances and needs. We work with a therapist that supports our client's treatment needs.
We are specialized in treating major depression, anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Panic attacks, and others We treat substance abuse disorders with Suboxone and other medications. our goal is to treat our patients through personalized, wellness recovery-focused services and treatments, designed to address their unique circumstances and needs. We work with a therapist that supports our client's treatment needs.
(214) 972-2295 View (214) 972-2295
Photo of Rebecca Puchkors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Rebecca Puchkors
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
I am deeply committed to helping individuals with mental illness achieve healthy, fulfilling lives by providing compassionate, holistic care that addresses both mind and body. My approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with thoughtful medication management, as needed, to ensure that each person receives a personalized treatment plan that supports their unique needs. I understand that mental health is complex, and no two journeys are the same. It is essential that I take the time to truly listen and collaborate with my clients, creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where they can feel heard, valued, and empowered.
I am deeply committed to helping individuals with mental illness achieve healthy, fulfilling lives by providing compassionate, holistic care that addresses both mind and body. My approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with thoughtful medication management, as needed, to ensure that each person receives a personalized treatment plan that supports their unique needs. I understand that mental health is complex, and no two journeys are the same. It is essential that I take the time to truly listen and collaborate with my clients, creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where they can feel heard, valued, and empowered.
(469) 903-4628 View (469) 903-4628

See more therapy options for 75180

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75180

< 10

Psychiatrists in 75180 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

36 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 75180 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75180?

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.