Psychiatrists in 75202

Photo of Nicholas J Bryant, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicholas J Bryant
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75202
ONLINE APPOINTMENTS NOW AVAILABLE - LOCATED IN HOUSTON, TEXAS. Dr. Bryant is committed to providing quality mental health care for adults and children of all ages. He received his M.D. from University of Texas Health Science Center. He then completed his psychiatry residency at John Peter Smith and his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine. Flourish Mental Health DOES NOT ACCEPT ANY INSURANCE PLANS. However, a receipt is provided that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement.
ONLINE APPOINTMENTS NOW AVAILABLE - LOCATED IN HOUSTON, TEXAS. Dr. Bryant is committed to providing quality mental health care for adults and children of all ages. He received his M.D. from University of Texas Health Science Center. He then completed his psychiatry residency at John Peter Smith and his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine. Flourish Mental Health DOES NOT ACCEPT ANY INSURANCE PLANS. However, a receipt is provided that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement.
(832) 358-3546 View (832) 358-3546
Photo of Ifeyinwa R Ezeadikwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
Ifeyinwa R Ezeadikwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or OCD and feels overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start. They are seeking understanding, support, and relief, and want to feel more balanced, confident, and in control of their mental health. Often, they want clarity, practical tools, and a safe space to be heard so they can move forward with greater peace and improved quality of life.
My ideal client may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or OCD and feels overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start. They are seeking understanding, support, and relief, and want to feel more balanced, confident, and in control of their mental health. Often, they want clarity, practical tools, and a safe space to be heard so they can move forward with greater peace and improved quality of life.
(972) 347-0850 View (972) 347-0850
Photo of Abidemi Adewoyin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Abidemi Adewoyin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, panic, or mood swings and struggling to feel like yourself? You want a safe, compassionate space to talk about what’s going on, get clarity on your challenges, and find a plan that helps you feel more stable and in control. You’re looking for evidence-based support and medication management so you can manage symptoms, build coping skills, and move toward feeling empowered, balanced, and more confident in your daily life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, panic, or mood swings and struggling to feel like yourself? You want a safe, compassionate space to talk about what’s going on, get clarity on your challenges, and find a plan that helps you feel more stable and in control. You’re looking for evidence-based support and medication management so you can manage symptoms, build coping skills, and move toward feeling empowered, balanced, and more confident in your daily life.
(346) 567-5277 View (346) 567-5277
Photo of George Attobrah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
George Attobrah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
NOW OFFERING ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. I offer quality and affordable mental health care with immediate appointments available. I assess and offer a detailed diagnostic evaluations for all mental disorders, and provides treatment plans that include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. You will have the direct access to personally talk to me on any issue. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders.
NOW OFFERING ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. I offer quality and affordable mental health care with immediate appointments available. I assess and offer a detailed diagnostic evaluations for all mental disorders, and provides treatment plans that include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. You will have the direct access to personally talk to me on any issue. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders.
(833) 240-4614 View (833) 240-4614
Photo of Comfort N. Ebozue, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Comfort N. Ebozue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: Comfort N. Ebozue is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a specialist in treating Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Older Adults with mental and behavioral issues. She graduated from Walden University with MSN and University of Phoenix with BSN. Comfort E. has over 36-years’ experience working with Children, Teenagers, and Adults. She takes pride in providing care to children, teenagers, and adults struggling with mental illnesses. She works with adults and families struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma and other emotional disorders.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: Comfort N. Ebozue is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a specialist in treating Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Older Adults with mental and behavioral issues. She graduated from Walden University with MSN and University of Phoenix with BSN. Comfort E. has over 36-years’ experience working with Children, Teenagers, and Adults. She takes pride in providing care to children, teenagers, and adults struggling with mental illnesses. She works with adults and families struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma and other emotional disorders.
(972) 882-9282 View (972) 882-9282
Photo of Ethan Taylor Sartor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ethan Taylor Sartor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Ethan Sartor, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who helps adults, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community and those dealing with sleep disorders, OCD, depression, anxiety, and chronic cardiometabolic disease (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol). I work with patients throughout Texas.
My name is Ethan Sartor, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who helps adults, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community and those dealing with sleep disorders, OCD, depression, anxiety, and chronic cardiometabolic disease (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol). I work with patients throughout Texas.
(469) 273-6352 View (469) 273-6352
Photo of Lovette Okoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Lovette Okoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(325) 237-2759 View (325) 237-2759
Photo of Elizabeth Showery, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elizabeth Showery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of substance use disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and trauma. I work with individuals across the lifespan, including children and adolescents.
I specialize in the treatment of substance use disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and trauma. I work with individuals across the lifespan, including children and adolescents.
(737) 387-3043 View (737) 387-3043
Photo of Fadekemi Olude, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
(972) 573-9755 View (972) 573-9755
Photo of Zainab Olusanya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Zainab Olusanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering emotional well-being and restoring life balance. I provide compassionate, accessible, and fully personalized mental health care, tailoring every treatment plan to your unique experiences, strengths, and goals for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering emotional well-being and restoring life balance. I provide compassionate, accessible, and fully personalized mental health care, tailoring every treatment plan to your unique experiences, strengths, and goals for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(737) 201-9875 View (737) 201-9875
Photo of Dr. Lillian Cole, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lillian Cole
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Lillian Cole is an adult psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She earned both her master’s in biomedical sciences and medical degree at Texas Tech University. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she was exposed to patient populations that were ethnoculturally, socioeconomically, and clinically diverse.
Dr. Lillian Cole is an adult psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She earned both her master’s in biomedical sciences and medical degree at Texas Tech University. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she was exposed to patient populations that were ethnoculturally, socioeconomically, and clinically diverse.
(469) 214-6649 View (469) 214-6649
Photo of Simmerpreet Kaur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Simmerpreet Kaur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're waking up each day feeling like it's a battle just to move forward… please know, you’re not alone. Maybe it's the weight of anxiety that never seems to lift. Or the numbness of depression that makes even simple tasks feel impossible. Perhaps it's a deep sadness, a sense of emptiness, or something you can’t even put into words. Whatever you’re facing, your pain is real, and it deserves attention, not silence. You might be feeling tired of pretending you're okay. Tired of struggling alone. But reaching out is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. It means you’re ready for things to change.
If you're waking up each day feeling like it's a battle just to move forward… please know, you’re not alone. Maybe it's the weight of anxiety that never seems to lift. Or the numbness of depression that makes even simple tasks feel impossible. Perhaps it's a deep sadness, a sense of emptiness, or something you can’t even put into words. Whatever you’re facing, your pain is real, and it deserves attention, not silence. You might be feeling tired of pretending you're okay. Tired of struggling alone. But reaching out is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. It means you’re ready for things to change.
(469) 966-7935 View (469) 966-7935
Photo of Jocelyn Jingwa, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Jocelyn Jingwa
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a doctorate degree in Nursing Practice with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I utilize a holistic approach when assessing, diagnosing, and treating my patients irrespective of your struggles. I provide a safe environment that encourages open communication so I can meet you were you are and we develop an individualized treatment plan. Every patient will be treated with dignity and respect irrespective of their struggles. My patients do feel that they are being heard as a person and that they're not just a diagnosis. We will come up with the safest treatment plan that meets your goals and follow through.
I have a doctorate degree in Nursing Practice with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I utilize a holistic approach when assessing, diagnosing, and treating my patients irrespective of your struggles. I provide a safe environment that encourages open communication so I can meet you were you are and we develop an individualized treatment plan. Every patient will be treated with dignity and respect irrespective of their struggles. My patients do feel that they are being heard as a person and that they're not just a diagnosis. We will come up with the safest treatment plan that meets your goals and follow through.
(210) 796-7561 View (210) 796-7561
Photo of Fatima Diallo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Fatima Diallo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I’m Fatima Diallo, PMHNP‑BC, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care to individuals ages 10 through older adulthood across Texas, Maine, and Wisconsin. My work is rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and a deep respect for each person’s lived experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders, with a particular passion for supporting clients through life transitions, trauma recovery, and emotional overwhelm. I believe mental health care should feel collaborative, transparent, and empowering. My approach blends medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoed
I’m Fatima Diallo, PMHNP‑BC, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care to individuals ages 10 through older adulthood across Texas, Maine, and Wisconsin. My work is rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and a deep respect for each person’s lived experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders, with a particular passion for supporting clients through life transitions, trauma recovery, and emotional overwhelm. I believe mental health care should feel collaborative, transparent, and empowering. My approach blends medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoed
(346) 616-9535 View (346) 616-9535

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Yvonne Amune, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75254
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing and CBT which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing and CBT which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Chelsea Dickson - Chelsea Dickson, PMHNP @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Chelsea Dickson, PMHNP @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Dallas, TX 75225
Is your child struggling with intense emotions, attention issues, or persistent worry? Do you feel like you're constantly walking a tightrope—balancing impulsive outbursts and withdrawn behavior, all while trying to do what’s best for your child? At Evolve Psychiatry, our team partners with both children and parents to understand what’s driving your child’s distress and to create a plan that nurtures emotional growth, resilience, and success — both at home and in school.
Is your child struggling with intense emotions, attention issues, or persistent worry? Do you feel like you're constantly walking a tightrope—balancing impulsive outbursts and withdrawn behavior, all while trying to do what’s best for your child? At Evolve Psychiatry, our team partners with both children and parents to understand what’s driving your child’s distress and to create a plan that nurtures emotional growth, resilience, and success — both at home and in school.
(469) 908-2498 View (469) 908-2498
Photo of Kristin Marie Wilczynski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kristin Marie Wilczynski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My goal is to help you get back to feeling like yourself again. My approach is warm, approachable, and collaborative to help guide you there. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that blends evidence-based care with practical, real-world tools. I want you to feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout your care. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use concerns, among other mental health challenges.
My goal is to help you get back to feeling like yourself again. My approach is warm, approachable, and collaborative to help guide you there. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that blends evidence-based care with practical, real-world tools. I want you to feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout your care. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use concerns, among other mental health challenges.
(817) 660-7692 View (817) 660-7692
Photo of Grant L Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Grant L Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I provide psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. My approach to medication management is client focused and collaborative based on information shared between clinician and the client. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship between clinician and patient is vital for positive mental health outcomes. I develop specialized treatment plans that are evidence based and tailored to each patient. I also provide faith informed care upon request.
I provide psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. My approach to medication management is client focused and collaborative based on information shared between clinician and the client. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship between clinician and patient is vital for positive mental health outcomes. I develop specialized treatment plans that are evidence based and tailored to each patient. I also provide faith informed care upon request.
(469) 529-2195 View (469) 529-2195
Photo of Mary Francis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mary Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Plano, TX 75093
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
(469) 228-8773 View (469) 228-8773
Photo of Jean Osas Awosoga - Inspire Mental Health Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Inspire Mental Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Plano, TX 75093
Jean Awosoga, PMHNP-BC. A graduate of Walden University with a master's degree in mental health nursing. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of clinical experience in nursing. I am very passionate about patient care, safety, well-being, and patient's privacy. I always keeps in mind the personalization and uniqueness of every patient.
Jean Awosoga, PMHNP-BC. A graduate of Walden University with a master's degree in mental health nursing. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of clinical experience in nursing. I am very passionate about patient care, safety, well-being, and patient's privacy. I always keeps in mind the personalization and uniqueness of every patient.
(469) 727-9792 View (469) 727-9792

See more therapy options for 75202

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75202

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 75202 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
71% ADHD
71% Stress

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
92% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 75202 see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75202?

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.