Psychiatrists in 75205

Photo of Michelle Monson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Michelle Monson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance. Unable to accept ADHD/stimulant patients in Texas at this time.
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance. Unable to accept ADHD/stimulant patients in Texas at this time.
(214) 239-4572 View (214) 239-4572
Photo of Simi Olushola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Simi Olushola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Online Only
As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, taking into account your unique background, experiences, and goals. I work closely with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and growth. If you're ready to take control of your mental health and embark on a journey towards wellness, I would be honored to be a part of your support system. We can work towards a brighter and healthier future. I am here to help you thrive. Let's start this journey together!
As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, taking into account your unique background, experiences, and goals. I work closely with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and growth. If you're ready to take control of your mental health and embark on a journey towards wellness, I would be honored to be a part of your support system. We can work towards a brighter and healthier future. I am here to help you thrive. Let's start this journey together!
(469) 916-5428 View (469) 916-5428
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75205
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(469) 746-3676 View (469) 746-3676
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75205
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(214) 428-6492 View (214) 428-6492
Photo of Joy Osinowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Joy Osinowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
My ideal clients are seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of control in their lives. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing anxiety, depression, or ADHD, or simply looking for support with stress and emotional wellness, I provide a compassionate, collaborative approach to care. I specialize in combining therapy and medication management to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered to meet your goals. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and support your journey to healing and growth.
My ideal clients are seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of control in their lives. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing anxiety, depression, or ADHD, or simply looking for support with stress and emotional wellness, I provide a compassionate, collaborative approach to care. I specialize in combining therapy and medication management to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered to meet your goals. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and support your journey to healing and growth.
(469) 589-8213 View (469) 589-8213
Photo of Dr. Kameko McGuire - Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C
Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Not accepting new clients
I pride myself on being approachable. I have worked with clients of all ages. I feel it is imperative to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. How can I help? I am your mental health advocate, and as a team, we will work on getting you what you need to be the best version of yourself. Please review my list of accepted insurances. I do not accept Medicaid at this time.
I pride myself on being approachable. I have worked with clients of all ages. I feel it is imperative to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. How can I help? I am your mental health advocate, and as a team, we will work on getting you what you need to be the best version of yourself. Please review my list of accepted insurances. I do not accept Medicaid at this time.
(850) 204-9390 View (850) 204-9390
Photo of Rebecca Frost, Psychiatrist, MD
Rebecca Frost
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
(701) 558-9231 View (701) 558-9231
Photo of Mayowa Omoyeni - Haven Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Haven Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Mayowa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. With over eight years of experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health care, I take an integrative, whole-person approach to treatment. I am also a mother and have personally experienced various life transitions, the joys and challenges of motherhood. I deeply understand the complexities of maternal mental health and the impact it can have on one’s mental well-being. I believe every individual deserves care tailored to their unique needs.
My name is Mayowa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. With over eight years of experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health care, I take an integrative, whole-person approach to treatment. I am also a mother and have personally experienced various life transitions, the joys and challenges of motherhood. I deeply understand the complexities of maternal mental health and the impact it can have on one’s mental well-being. I believe every individual deserves care tailored to their unique needs.
(469) 336-6871 View (469) 336-6871
Photo of Rosine Vandenberg - Centered Mental Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Centered Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Located in Princeton, Texas, I am a solo practitioner offering both a welcoming in-person space and secure telehealth visits. At Centered Mental Health, I provide personalized psychiatric care that centers on your unique story, lived experience, and emotional needs. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and approach each person with deep compassion, respect, and curiosity. I view each client as the expert in their own life and offer brief interventions while integrating medication management as necessary designed to foster resilience, balance, and emotional clarity.
Located in Princeton, Texas, I am a solo practitioner offering both a welcoming in-person space and secure telehealth visits. At Centered Mental Health, I provide personalized psychiatric care that centers on your unique story, lived experience, and emotional needs. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and approach each person with deep compassion, respect, and curiosity. I view each client as the expert in their own life and offer brief interventions while integrating medication management as necessary designed to foster resilience, balance, and emotional clarity.
(469) 378-0040 View (469) 378-0040
Photo of Rhoda Rhian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhoda Rhian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and the founder of Rho Psyche Solutions, my primary goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care that fosters trust and supports your mental health journey. I understand that seeking help can be a significant step, and I am here to ensure that you feel safe, valued, and understood.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and the founder of Rho Psyche Solutions, my primary goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care that fosters trust and supports your mental health journey. I understand that seeking help can be a significant step, and I am here to ensure that you feel safe, valued, and understood.
(469) 445-4993 View (469) 445-4993
Photo of Dr. Daniel Daylamani, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Daniel Daylamani
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
(512) 991-5846 View (512) 991-5846
Photo of Anton Surja, Psychiatrist, MD
Anton Surja
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
We help individuals struggling with ADHD, learning disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use that impact school, work, relationships, and family life. Our holistic approach restores psychological and physical well-being, empowering clients to overcome challenges, build self-esteem, and achieve lasting success—free from addiction and past trauma. Let us help you regain control and thrive.
We help individuals struggling with ADHD, learning disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use that impact school, work, relationships, and family life. Our holistic approach restores psychological and physical well-being, empowering clients to overcome challenges, build self-esteem, and achieve lasting success—free from addiction and past trauma. Let us help you regain control and thrive.
(469) 425-7632 View (469) 425-7632
Photo of Marian Rain, Psychiatrist, MD
Marian Rain
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I work with children, teens and adults in their twenties, in both therapy and medication management. I believe it takes bravery to seek psychiatric help for yourself or a loved one, and my goal is to meet that bravery with a warm, thoughtful and evidence-based approach. I am a strong proponent of psychotherapy and I believe medications, when indicated, are even more effective when combined with therapy.
I work with children, teens and adults in their twenties, in both therapy and medication management. I believe it takes bravery to seek psychiatric help for yourself or a loved one, and my goal is to meet that bravery with a warm, thoughtful and evidence-based approach. I am a strong proponent of psychotherapy and I believe medications, when indicated, are even more effective when combined with therapy.
(214) 817-0877 View (214) 817-0877
Photo of Dr. Alice Sanchez, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Alice Sanchez
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I have been in practice in diverse settings for 19 years. I trained in general psychiatry at Maimonides medical center in New York and completed a geriatric fellowship at New York University. I firmly believe that effective treatment is a collaborative process and I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately, in ways that are tailored to the individual.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I have been in practice in diverse settings for 19 years. I trained in general psychiatry at Maimonides medical center in New York and completed a geriatric fellowship at New York University. I firmly believe that effective treatment is a collaborative process and I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately, in ways that are tailored to the individual.
(972) 474-6763 View (972) 474-6763
Photo of Simi Olushola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Simi Olushola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Online Only
As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, taking into account your unique background, experiences, and goals. I work closely with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and growth. If you're ready to take control of your mental health and embark on a journey towards wellness, I would be honored to be a part of your support system. We can work towards a brighter and healthier future. I am here to help you thrive. Let's start this journey together!
As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, taking into account your unique background, experiences, and goals. I work closely with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and growth. If you're ready to take control of your mental health and embark on a journey towards wellness, I would be honored to be a part of your support system. We can work towards a brighter and healthier future. I am here to help you thrive. Let's start this journey together!
(469) 632-1897 View (469) 632-1897
Photo of Grace Lee, Psychiatrist, MD
Grace Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome! I am a Stanford-trained adult psychiatrist, and I bring expertise and a personalized approach to medication management in my private practice. My goal is to help you navigate challenges and achieve meaningful progress towards your aspirations. My approach is rooted in warmth and honesty, and I strive to build a genuine connection that fosters trust, insight, and healing. While I am only providing medication management in this practice, I incorporate my training in insight-oriented, psychodynamic therapy, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to offer therapeutic visits.
Welcome! I am a Stanford-trained adult psychiatrist, and I bring expertise and a personalized approach to medication management in my private practice. My goal is to help you navigate challenges and achieve meaningful progress towards your aspirations. My approach is rooted in warmth and honesty, and I strive to build a genuine connection that fosters trust, insight, and healing. While I am only providing medication management in this practice, I incorporate my training in insight-oriented, psychodynamic therapy, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to offer therapeutic visits.
(469) 277-9219 View (469) 277-9219
Photo of Damilola Salako - Salako Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Salako Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Thank you for stopping by and learning more about the services offered at Salako Psychiatry. My first and only priority from the moment you walk through the door is YOU. I wholeheartedly believe that medical and psychiatric care is a collaborative experience and I strive to ensure clear communication of treatment goals and plans so that we are always on the same page. We do not have a waitlist at this time. I offer discounted rates to college and graduate students.
Thank you for stopping by and learning more about the services offered at Salako Psychiatry. My first and only priority from the moment you walk through the door is YOU. I wholeheartedly believe that medical and psychiatric care is a collaborative experience and I strive to ensure clear communication of treatment goals and plans so that we are always on the same page. We do not have a waitlist at this time. I offer discounted rates to college and graduate students.
(469) 747-0553 View (469) 747-0553
Photo of Dr. Mark Holsey, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Mark Holsey
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Hi there! I am a board-certified psychiatry physician, specializing in the management of depression and anxiety. My ideal patient is an adult that is seeking compassionate mental healthcare, and motivated to pursue relief from persistent symptoms that impact their daily functioning. They need a supportive and non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies. Their goals include reducing symptom severity and enhancing overall quality of life. They want to regain control and find a path to long-term mental health stability, driven by a desire for a fulfilling and balanced life.
Hi there! I am a board-certified psychiatry physician, specializing in the management of depression and anxiety. My ideal patient is an adult that is seeking compassionate mental healthcare, and motivated to pursue relief from persistent symptoms that impact their daily functioning. They need a supportive and non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies. Their goals include reducing symptom severity and enhancing overall quality of life. They want to regain control and find a path to long-term mental health stability, driven by a desire for a fulfilling and balanced life.
(936) 301-0279 View (936) 301-0279
Photo of Neha Chaudhary, Psychiatrist, MD
Neha Chaudhary
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
On faculty at Harvard / Mass General, I'm a double-boarded child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist who offers telemedicine-based evaluation and treatment of kids, adolescents, and adults. I take a comprehensive approach, considering all aspects of you or your child’s lifestyle in order to create an individualized treatment program that meets you where you are. I believe that for treatment to be successful, you or your child will need to be evaluated and treated within the broader context of who you are, considering genetics, family dynamics, social supports, romantic relationships, careers, hobbies, habits, and unique stressors.
On faculty at Harvard / Mass General, I'm a double-boarded child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist who offers telemedicine-based evaluation and treatment of kids, adolescents, and adults. I take a comprehensive approach, considering all aspects of you or your child’s lifestyle in order to create an individualized treatment program that meets you where you are. I believe that for treatment to be successful, you or your child will need to be evaluated and treated within the broader context of who you are, considering genetics, family dynamics, social supports, romantic relationships, careers, hobbies, habits, and unique stressors.
(628) 265-8883 View (628) 265-8883
Photo of Alexander Cole - Prestonwood Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Prestonwood Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Prestonwood Health is a physician-founded, owned, and operated psychiatric practice with three board-certified psychiatrists serving patients in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex and throughout Texas. Our team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, including medications, psychotherapy, and other interventions. We pride ourselves on our patient-centered, individualized approach that places you at the center of your treatment.
Prestonwood Health is a physician-founded, owned, and operated psychiatric practice with three board-certified psychiatrists serving patients in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex and throughout Texas. Our team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, including medications, psychotherapy, and other interventions. We pride ourselves on our patient-centered, individualized approach that places you at the center of your treatment.
(214) 810-1898 View (214) 810-1898

See more therapy options for 75205

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75205

30+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 75205 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
76% Stress
73% Medication Management
70% Sleep or Insomnia
67% ADHD
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 75205 see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75205?

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.