Psychiatrists in 75201

Simratpal Kaur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Simratpal (Simy) Kaur is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from The University of Texas at Arlington. Simy has over six years of practice experience and has worked in various fields such as oncology, med-surg, surgery, and cardiology. She found her passion for mental health through her nursing and personal experiences. Simy believes in a holistic approach to care and focuses her treatment plans on medication, therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other treatment modalities.
Simratpal (Simy) Kaur is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from The University of Texas at Arlington. Simy has over six years of practice experience and has worked in various fields such as oncology, med-surg, surgery, and cardiology. She found her passion for mental health through her nursing and personal experiences. Simy believes in a holistic approach to care and focuses her treatment plans on medication, therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other treatment modalities.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas at Tyler. I have over 11 years of nursing experience in various fields and with diverse patient populations. My background includes providing mental health services to patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mental health concerns by increasing access to treatment and offering support, compassion, and understanding.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas at Tyler. I have over 11 years of nursing experience in various fields and with diverse patient populations. My background includes providing mental health services to patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mental health concerns by increasing access to treatment and offering support, compassion, and understanding.

Recovery Mind Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201
Olubukola (Olu) Yoade is an ANCC board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. She's licensed to practice in TX, AZ, and WA. Olu has more than a decade of experience in Psychiatric nursing with various patient age groups. She graduated from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing. Olu understands that mental health disorders can be overwhelming for the patient and can negatively impact the quality of life. Therefore, her daily goal is to help her clients live meaningful lives. In treatment with Olu, you will find a thoughtful, warm, and nonjudgmental atmosphere. She creates effective, individualized treatment plan
Olubukola (Olu) Yoade is an ANCC board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. She's licensed to practice in TX, AZ, and WA. Olu has more than a decade of experience in Psychiatric nursing with various patient age groups. She graduated from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing. Olu understands that mental health disorders can be overwhelming for the patient and can negatively impact the quality of life. Therefore, her daily goal is to help her clients live meaningful lives. In treatment with Olu, you will find a thoughtful, warm, and nonjudgmental atmosphere. She creates effective, individualized treatment plan

Jesse Pritchett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
•• Accepting New Patients Anywhere In Texas •• ••Easily schedule an appointment online at www.npsychiatry.com/schedule •• Jesse, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings extensive experience nurturing mental well-being in adults. His dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, Jesse believes in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
•• Accepting New Patients Anywhere In Texas •• ••Easily schedule an appointment online at www.npsychiatry.com/schedule •• Jesse, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings extensive experience nurturing mental well-being in adults. His dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, Jesse believes in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.

As an adult psychiatrist Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I hold a medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and completed a four-year residency in adult psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens. My extensive medical education and training have equipped me with broad experience in mental health care in one of the most diverse counties in the U.S.
As an adult psychiatrist Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I hold a medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and completed a four-year residency in adult psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens. My extensive medical education and training have equipped me with broad experience in mental health care in one of the most diverse counties in the U.S.

Disclaimer: Not prescribing Controlled Substances in Texas.
Many of my clients come to me looking for help when they are feeling depressed, anxious, angry, are experiencing symptoms due to past trauma, can't sleep, are grieving the loss of a loved one, are having obsessions/compulsions, hallucinating, or they are finding it challenging concentrating at work or school. I treat clients 18 and older regardless of race, gender, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, occupation, education, or personal/political beliefs.
Disclaimer: Not prescribing Controlled Substances in Texas.
Many of my clients come to me looking for help when they are feeling depressed, anxious, angry, are experiencing symptoms due to past trauma, can't sleep, are grieving the loss of a loved one, are having obsessions/compulsions, hallucinating, or they are finding it challenging concentrating at work or school. I treat clients 18 and older regardless of race, gender, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, occupation, education, or personal/political beliefs.

Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.

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.

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.

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.

Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

LinMed Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.

As a PMHNP, I have the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. My nursing career and clinical practice experience in community mental health has exposed me to a wide range of diagnoses, enabling me to apply my expertise in delivering compassionate, individualized care that focuses on medication management. This diverse background enhances my relatability and effectiveness as a provider. Additionally, this background has honed my ability to build a therapeutic alliance with my clients, connect them to necessary resources, and develop treatment plans that fit their specific needs.
As a PMHNP, I have the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. My nursing career and clinical practice experience in community mental health has exposed me to a wide range of diagnoses, enabling me to apply my expertise in delivering compassionate, individualized care that focuses on medication management. This diverse background enhances my relatability and effectiveness as a provider. Additionally, this background has honed my ability to build a therapeutic alliance with my clients, connect them to necessary resources, and develop treatment plans that fit their specific needs.

I'm Dr. Pondicherry, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a passion for helping people build resilience and lead more engaged, fulfilling lives. My clinic takes a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, with a strong foundation in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT helps you navigate difficult thoughts/emotions, develop greater psychological flexibility, and take meaningful action toward the life you want. My focus is therapy, but when beneficial, I also prescribe select medications to enhance the therapeutic process. (Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances.)
I'm Dr. Pondicherry, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a passion for helping people build resilience and lead more engaged, fulfilling lives. My clinic takes a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, with a strong foundation in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT helps you navigate difficult thoughts/emotions, develop greater psychological flexibility, and take meaningful action toward the life you want. My focus is therapy, but when beneficial, I also prescribe select medications to enhance the therapeutic process. (Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances.)

Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.

My name is Purity Mburu, I am a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner who strives to provide the best-individualized care to my patients. In my 6 years of Nursing, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, and psychiatric emergency settings. My experience in various clinical settings has equipped me with the skill
My name is Purity Mburu, I am a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner who strives to provide the best-individualized care to my patients. In my 6 years of Nursing, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, and psychiatric emergency settings. My experience in various clinical settings has equipped me with the skill

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.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.

I am a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a strong educational background and clinical experience. I completed a one-year PMHNP residency at the Dallas VA Medical Center and hold both a Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Nursing from The University of Texas at Arlington. Prior to becoming a PMHNP, I worked as a registered nurse for 6 years in acute-care settings. I have always been passionate about mental health care and realize that both mental and physical health need to be optimized to maximize functioning in one's life. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a strong educational background and clinical experience. I completed a one-year PMHNP residency at the Dallas VA Medical Center and hold both a Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Nursing from The University of Texas at Arlington. Prior to becoming a PMHNP, I worked as a registered nurse for 6 years in acute-care settings. I have always been passionate about mental health care and realize that both mental and physical health need to be optimized to maximize functioning in one's life. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment.
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:
96% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Medication Management |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 75201 see their clients
75% | Online Only | |
25% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
34% | 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.