Psychiatrists in 75201

Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Dallas, TX 75201
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Henry Onyeaka, Psychiatrist, MD,MPH
Henry Onyeaka
Psychiatrist, MD,MPH
Dallas, TX 75201
Founded by Harvard-trained psychiatrist Dr. Henry Onyeaka, Iroko Psychiatry provides thoughtful, evidence-based therapy and medication management for adolescents and adults. We offer high-quality, compassionate outpatient psychiatric care for individuals. Clients come to Iroko Psychiatry when they need a level of expertise not always available in general clinics. To increase access to care, we accept insurance and also offer financial discounts to clients using out-of-network benefits. Reach out with your health insurance plan and we will do our best to estimate costs.
Founded by Harvard-trained psychiatrist Dr. Henry Onyeaka, Iroko Psychiatry provides thoughtful, evidence-based therapy and medication management for adolescents and adults. We offer high-quality, compassionate outpatient psychiatric care for individuals. Clients come to Iroko Psychiatry when they need a level of expertise not always available in general clinics. To increase access to care, we accept insurance and also offer financial discounts to clients using out-of-network benefits. Reach out with your health insurance plan and we will do our best to estimate costs.
(214) 771-7167 View (214) 771-7167
Photo of Giovanna Skylar - Mentally Free Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-
Mentally Free Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-
Dallas, TX 75201
My ideal clients are individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or major life stressors and want practical support to regain balance and clarity. Many are high-functioning professionals, students, or adults who appear successful outwardly but are quietly struggling with stress, emotional exhaustion, sleep difficulties, or challenges with focus and motivation. Some clients come feeling stuck or discouraged. They may experience persistent worry, low mood, difficulty concentrating, relationship stress, or the lingering effects of past trauma. Others simply know something isn’t working in their life anymore
My ideal clients are individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or major life stressors and want practical support to regain balance and clarity. Many are high-functioning professionals, students, or adults who appear successful outwardly but are quietly struggling with stress, emotional exhaustion, sleep difficulties, or challenges with focus and motivation. Some clients come feeling stuck or discouraged. They may experience persistent worry, low mood, difficulty concentrating, relationship stress, or the lingering effects of past trauma. Others simply know something isn’t working in their life anymore
(470) 944-5699 View (470) 944-5699
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Olubukola Yoade - Recovery Mind Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Recovery Mind Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201
Hi, I’m Olu: an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), and I’m glad you’re here. I know that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. My goal is to make this step a little easier by creating a space that feels safe, supportive, and free of judgment. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep challenges and other mental health conditions. Mental health concerns can affect every part of daily life; my role is to help you find relief and reconnect with a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.
Hi, I’m Olu: an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), and I’m glad you’re here. I know that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. My goal is to make this step a little easier by creating a space that feels safe, supportive, and free of judgment. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep challenges and other mental health conditions. Mental health concerns can affect every part of daily life; my role is to help you find relief and reconnect with a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.
(469) 809-4965 View (469) 809-4965
Photo of Wolfgang Rosenfeldt, Psychiatrist, MD
Wolfgang Rosenfeldt
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75201
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
(469) 754-8124 View (469) 754-8124
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Dallas, TX 75201
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(469) 587-6160 View (469) 587-6160
Photo of Olubunmi Oladosu - Zenith Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Zenith Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Dallas, TX 75201
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITHIN A WEEK APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE; AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS ONLY. At zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health to include addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITHIN A WEEK APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE; AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS ONLY. At zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health to include addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs.
(832) 219-7240 View (832) 219-7240
Photo of Linu S Mathew, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Linu S Mathew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
My clinical style is warm, structured, and collaborative. I emphasize clear communication and shared decision-making with my patients. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where people feel heard and respected. I have an AGACNP background, which supports my ability to assess medical comorbidity and understand complex medical/psychiatric overlap. I am also DOT-certified, which reflects my knowledge of safety-sensitive considerations and careful medication risk assessment.
My clinical style is warm, structured, and collaborative. I emphasize clear communication and shared decision-making with my patients. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where people feel heard and respected. I have an AGACNP background, which supports my ability to assess medical comorbidity and understand complex medical/psychiatric overlap. I am also DOT-certified, which reflects my knowledge of safety-sensitive considerations and careful medication risk assessment.
(281) 626-7109 View (281) 626-7109
Photo of Dr. Randall Turner, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Randall Turner
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or unsure why their mind and body feel disconnected. They may be struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, fatigue, sleep issues, or physical symptoms that seem tied to emotional strain. Others simply want a physician who listens, takes their concerns seriously, and looks at the full picture, not just the symptoms. My goal is to help you understand what’s happening in your body and support you in moving toward balanced, sustainable health.
Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or unsure why their mind and body feel disconnected. They may be struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, fatigue, sleep issues, or physical symptoms that seem tied to emotional strain. Others simply want a physician who listens, takes their concerns seriously, and looks at the full picture, not just the symptoms. My goal is to help you understand what’s happening in your body and support you in moving toward balanced, sustainable health.
(949) 694-7581 View (949) 694-7581
Photo of Dr. Rasheedat R Adewumi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , MSN, CNE, PMHNP
Dr. Rasheedat R Adewumi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , MSN, CNE, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a passionate advocate for women's mental health, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where women can thrive and heal. I believe in the power of empathy, empowerment, and community in promoting mental wellness and resilience. My commitment to destigmatizing mental health challenges and providing holistic care aligns with the values of this organization. I am eager to contribute my expertise, compassion, and advocacy skills to support women on their journey towards mental health and well-being. Together, we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for women's mental health.
As a passionate advocate for women's mental health, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where women can thrive and heal. I believe in the power of empathy, empowerment, and community in promoting mental wellness and resilience. My commitment to destigmatizing mental health challenges and providing holistic care aligns with the values of this organization. I am eager to contribute my expertise, compassion, and advocacy skills to support women on their journey towards mental health and well-being. Together, we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for women's mental health.
(346) 637-5399 View (346) 637-5399
Photo of Emma Gorrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Emma Gorrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Do you ever feel like you can’t catch a break? Like every task is piling up and just trying to stay afloat feels like too much? I understand that life can feel overwhelming at times, and facing its challenges can be tough and it takes courage to reach out for help. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, I’m here to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
Do you ever feel like you can’t catch a break? Like every task is piling up and just trying to stay afloat feels like too much? I understand that life can feel overwhelming at times, and facing its challenges can be tough and it takes courage to reach out for help. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, I’m here to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
(737) 530-7834 View (737) 530-7834
Photo of Ricardo A Mendiola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ricardo A Mendiola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Nov 2025 - Accepting New Patients - I'm Board Certified as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health in Multi-States (Texas, Rhode Island, Washington, Colorado, and New Hampshire), I'm bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients with compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder..
Nov 2025 - Accepting New Patients - I'm Board Certified as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health in Multi-States (Texas, Rhode Island, Washington, Colorado, and New Hampshire), I'm bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients with compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder..
(956) 516-7304 View (956) 516-7304
Micgra PSych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years in the health care field. Are you truly living or just existing? Do you have a desire to live life to your fullest potential? Let me help you to live your best life! At my practice our philosophy is to take a collaborative approach to care. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when clinicians and client work together to create a plan of care that fully meets the clients needs.
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years in the health care field. Are you truly living or just existing? Do you have a desire to live life to your fullest potential? Let me help you to live your best life! At my practice our philosophy is to take a collaborative approach to care. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when clinicians and client work together to create a plan of care that fully meets the clients needs.
(971) 374-5824 View (971) 374-5824
Photo of Brenda Medina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Brenda Medina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Serves Area
Medication management services provided. My ideal client is someone encountering mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, or other general mental health conditions, seeking to be heard with compassion in a nonjudgmental manner. They need relief from the burden they face every day.
Medication management services provided. My ideal client is someone encountering mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, or other general mental health conditions, seeking to be heard with compassion in a nonjudgmental manner. They need relief from the burden they face every day.
(469) 378-9573 View (469) 378-9573
Photo of Rey Leal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Rey Leal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
A highly experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years in the mental health field, specializing in anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and trauma-related conditions. He adopts a compassionate and holistic approach, focusing on creating a safe environment for clients to express their feelings. His empathetic listening skills foster a strong therapeutic alliance, encouraging clients to engage actively in their treatment and personal growth.
A highly experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years in the mental health field, specializing in anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and trauma-related conditions. He adopts a compassionate and holistic approach, focusing on creating a safe environment for clients to express their feelings. His empathetic listening skills foster a strong therapeutic alliance, encouraging clients to engage actively in their treatment and personal growth.
(915) 974-3981 View (915) 974-3981
Photo of Brianna Riddlebarger, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Brianna Riddlebarger
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or unsure where to begin. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ongoing stress that’s starting to affect their work, relationships, or daily functioning. Others simply want a provider who will listen without judgment and guide them toward practical steps that actually help. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and part of your own healing process.
Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or unsure where to begin. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ongoing stress that’s starting to affect their work, relationships, or daily functioning. Others simply want a provider who will listen without judgment and guide them toward practical steps that actually help. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and part of your own healing process.
(817) 518-5668 View (817) 518-5668
Photo of Bridget Shu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Bridget Shu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new patients. Appointments are available within 24–48 hours. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, panic attacks, or depression? You're not alone. If you're experiencing constant worry, sadness, fatigue, or loss of interest, we’re here to help. Get a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation within 24–48 hours. You’ll receive individualized care tailored to your needs, goals, and lifestyle—no one-size-fits-all plans here.
Accepting new patients. Appointments are available within 24–48 hours. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, panic attacks, or depression? You're not alone. If you're experiencing constant worry, sadness, fatigue, or loss of interest, we’re here to help. Get a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation within 24–48 hours. You’ll receive individualized care tailored to your needs, goals, and lifestyle—no one-size-fits-all plans here.
(346) 275-3799 View (346) 275-3799
Photo of Sheikh Afzal - Mood and Memory Clinic | Cedar Park, Texas, Psychiatrist, MD
Mood and Memory Clinic | Cedar Park, Texas
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Afzal completed his psychiatry residency at Elmhurst Hospital within the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City. He then pursued one additional year of advanced training in child and adolescent psychiatry at Institute of Living in Connecticut, a nationally recognized center for psychiatric research and education. Early in his career, he was “grandfathered in” subspecialty Psychosomatic Medicine (also known as Consultation‑Liaison Psychiatry), and went on to accumulate over 10 years of experience managing complex cases at the intersection of medical and psychiatric illness.
Dr. Afzal completed his psychiatry residency at Elmhurst Hospital within the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City. He then pursued one additional year of advanced training in child and adolescent psychiatry at Institute of Living in Connecticut, a nationally recognized center for psychiatric research and education. Early in his career, he was “grandfathered in” subspecialty Psychosomatic Medicine (also known as Consultation‑Liaison Psychiatry), and went on to accumulate over 10 years of experience managing complex cases at the intersection of medical and psychiatric illness.
(512) 877-6507 View (512) 877-6507
Photo of Jeremiah Sanders - Resolute - Addiction and Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Resolute - Addiction and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you dealing with crippling anxiety or depression? Struggling with addiction issues? Our team focuses on the total recovery of those who are struggling with addiction, co-occurring disorders, or mental health disorders. We love clients who are committed to recreating their lives by following simple principles. Those who have the willingness to make the initial call can apply that willingness to completely changing their lives. Don't believe us? There are thousands of us out there that have completely broken the chains of addiction and mental health disorders and have found a life of purpose, positivity, and joy.
Are you dealing with crippling anxiety or depression? Struggling with addiction issues? Our team focuses on the total recovery of those who are struggling with addiction, co-occurring disorders, or mental health disorders. We love clients who are committed to recreating their lives by following simple principles. Those who have the willingness to make the initial call can apply that willingness to completely changing their lives. Don't believe us? There are thousands of us out there that have completely broken the chains of addiction and mental health disorders and have found a life of purpose, positivity, and joy.
(903) 226-8421 View (903) 226-8421

See more therapy options for 75201

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75201

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 75201 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
85% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
79% Trauma and PTSD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
92% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 75201 see their clients

69% Online Only
31% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75201?

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.