Psychiatrists in 75212

Photo of Dr. Lilian Davidson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lilian Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75212  (Online Only)
Dr. Lilian Davidson is dedicated to excellence in psychiatric practice, and she offers a wide array of diagnostic, psychotherapy, medication, and consultation services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. She has effectively integrated the most recent advances in psychiatry with time-tested treatment approaches. We offer you the expertise you expect from a leading clinical practice in a supportive, nurturing, and therapeutic environment. Her practice experience includes Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Personality Disorders.
Dr. Lilian Davidson is dedicated to excellence in psychiatric practice, and she offers a wide array of diagnostic, psychotherapy, medication, and consultation services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. She has effectively integrated the most recent advances in psychiatry with time-tested treatment approaches. We offer you the expertise you expect from a leading clinical practice in a supportive, nurturing, and therapeutic environment. Her practice experience includes Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Personality Disorders.
(469) 689-2182 View (469) 689-2182

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jim Halgrimson, MD, Psychiatrist
Jim Halgrimson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
Dr. Halgrimson is a Board-Certified Baylor Trained Psychiatrist who is proud to serve adolescents and adults. Dr. Halgrimson treats a wide range of mental health conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and other cognitive conditions. Dr. Halgrimson is published in a number of peer-reviewed scientific journals, including the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and has served as President of the Austin Psychiatric Society. Dr. Halgrimson loves Austin, the people here, and enjoys spending time with his friends and family.
Dr. Halgrimson is a Board-Certified Baylor Trained Psychiatrist who is proud to serve adolescents and adults. Dr. Halgrimson treats a wide range of mental health conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and other cognitive conditions. Dr. Halgrimson is published in a number of peer-reviewed scientific journals, including the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and has served as President of the Austin Psychiatric Society. Dr. Halgrimson loves Austin, the people here, and enjoys spending time with his friends and family.
(737) 204-8221 View (737) 204-8221
Photo of Jaishree Raghavan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaishree Raghavan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
(817) 813-1972 View (817) 813-1972
Photo of Samitriya Kroll, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samitriya Kroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
Accepting new client assessments! Samitriya Kroll, offers compassionate and individualized, holistic care dedicated to your overall wellbeing. With over 10 years’ experience in mental health care, Samitriya specializes in depression and anxiety disorders, along with PTSD and Bipolar. She offers a holistic, integrative approach to healing with personalized care, medication management, and lifestyle modification habits.
Accepting new client assessments! Samitriya Kroll, offers compassionate and individualized, holistic care dedicated to your overall wellbeing. With over 10 years’ experience in mental health care, Samitriya specializes in depression and anxiety disorders, along with PTSD and Bipolar. She offers a holistic, integrative approach to healing with personalized care, medication management, and lifestyle modification habits.
(972) 435-6749 View (972) 435-6749
Photo of Alyxandra Bui, DO, Psychiatrist
Alyxandra Bui
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
(469) 956-6365 View (469) 956-6365
Photo of Sajo J Thomas - YesPsych LLC, APRN, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
YesPsych LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75041
As a PMHNP, I provide a safe, supportive environment for clients. I aim to empower clients through education about their mental health condition. Clients receive a comprehensive, individualized care plan, which may include medication management. I use evidence-based treatment . The ultimate goal is to enhance clients' quality of life and mental stability. I am committed to treating clients with respect, compassion, and understanding, supporting them throughout their mental health journey.
As a PMHNP, I provide a safe, supportive environment for clients. I aim to empower clients through education about their mental health condition. Clients receive a comprehensive, individualized care plan, which may include medication management. I use evidence-based treatment . The ultimate goal is to enhance clients' quality of life and mental stability. I am committed to treating clients with respect, compassion, and understanding, supporting them throughout their mental health journey.
(972) 703-5021 View (972) 703-5021
Photo of Gerald Chizoba Okafor, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gerald Chizoba Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
Gerald Okafor is a Board-Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has a great ability to foster good rapport with patients. Gerald prides himself as a great listener and feels a strong calling to coach and encourage others. At Livingwell, we believe that mental health issues do not have the final say in your life. Rather, it is something that you are going through. There is hope, and there is help even when it is hard to believe. Together, we can find a solution to help you get back to your feet and be the best version of yourself.
Gerald Okafor is a Board-Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has a great ability to foster good rapport with patients. Gerald prides himself as a great listener and feels a strong calling to coach and encourage others. At Livingwell, we believe that mental health issues do not have the final say in your life. Rather, it is something that you are going through. There is hope, and there is help even when it is hard to believe. Together, we can find a solution to help you get back to your feet and be the best version of yourself.
(214) 225-7952 View (214) 225-7952
Photo of Tiruwork M Hiruy - Integrated Psychiatry Services, PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrated Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.
(469) 218-4330 View (469) 218-4330
Photo of Karen Inzurriaga, DNP, ARN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Inzurriaga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARN, PMHNPBC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75203  (Online Only)
Karen (often referred to by her trusting patients as Dr. I) is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has years of nursing experience in a variety of settings in Behavioral health.
Karen (often referred to by her trusting patients as Dr. I) is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has years of nursing experience in a variety of settings in Behavioral health.
(210) 972-0507 View (210) 972-0507
Photo of Gerald Matthews, MD, Psychiatrist
Gerald Matthews
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
Dr. Gerald Matthews is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in adult psychiatry, and has experience treating civilians, as well as active duty military and veterans. The majority of Dr. Matthews's practice is in providing medication management, however he often collaborates with therapists in caring for his patients, where indicated.
Dr. Gerald Matthews is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in adult psychiatry, and has experience treating civilians, as well as active duty military and veterans. The majority of Dr. Matthews's practice is in providing medication management, however he often collaborates with therapists in caring for his patients, where indicated.
(469) 770-7885 View (469) 770-7885
Photo of Faith Ogala - Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS), MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75228
Now accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send us email directly through our website: www.mbspsych.org.
Now accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send us email directly through our website: www.mbspsych.org.
(214) 225-6020 x75228 View (214) 225-6020 x75228
Photo of Rhoda Madamombe - Rhoda Madamombe - Great Pathways Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhoda Madamombe - Great Pathways Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adults. I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety disorders, Post traumatic Stress disorder, and substance abuse. I am compassionate and truly enjoy helping clients reach their full potential.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adults. I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety disorders, Post traumatic Stress disorder, and substance abuse. I am compassionate and truly enjoy helping clients reach their full potential.
(972) 853-5574 View (972) 853-5574
Photo of April Parker - EZ Mind Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EZ Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034  (Online Only)
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
(214) 239-0235 View (214) 239-0235
Photo of Dr. Noor @ Faith Behavioral, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Noor @ Faith Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75035
It's okay to not be okay. Healing takes time, and you're doing your best and we are here to help you with this process. I treat ages 6-60 years old, I work with school for 504 and IEP. As a child, adult psychiatrist, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care that considers the unique needs of individuals.
It's okay to not be okay. Healing takes time, and you're doing your best and we are here to help you with this process. I treat ages 6-60 years old, I work with school for 504 and IEP. As a child, adult psychiatrist, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care that considers the unique needs of individuals.
(214) 609-1776 View (214) 609-1776
Photo of Linda Akudo - LinMed Behavioral Health , PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LinMed Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201  (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.
(214) 544-9885 View (214) 544-9885
Photo of Chelsea Dickson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Dickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I am born and raised in Texas and have been in the nursing field since 2011. I have experience in various areas including Pre-op, PACU, Med-Surg, OR and ER.
I am born and raised in Texas and have been in the nursing field since 2011. I have experience in various areas including Pre-op, PACU, Med-Surg, OR and ER.
(972) 284-0938 View (972) 284-0938
Photo of Angela J Tefft, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela J Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75028  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
(469) 564-3435 View (469) 564-3435
Photo of Walter Akwo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Walter Akwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
Walter provides medication management, brief supportive therapy, lifestyle coaching, solution-focused, and goal-oriented therapeutic interventions to individuals from ages 13 years and older, who struggle with depression anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, psychotic and other mood disorders to overcome crippling negative self-talk and reclaim their confidence, purpose, and joy. His philosophy focuses on a multi-faceted practical approach of individualized client-centered care, to achieve overall wellness treatment goals.
Walter provides medication management, brief supportive therapy, lifestyle coaching, solution-focused, and goal-oriented therapeutic interventions to individuals from ages 13 years and older, who struggle with depression anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, psychotic and other mood disorders to overcome crippling negative self-talk and reclaim their confidence, purpose, and joy. His philosophy focuses on a multi-faceted practical approach of individualized client-centered care, to achieve overall wellness treatment goals.
(832) 617-9460 View (832) 617-9460
Photo of Ayuk Obale, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ayuk Obale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heath, TX 75032
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you have loss of interest, or why you consistently have low energy? Do you wonder why one day you are happy and the next day you are sad. Do you wonder why you consistently worry about everything, and you feel like your thoughts are racing in your head? If you answered yes to these questions, I would love to help. I have experience treating individuals from age 14- 99 years old. My focus is anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, and thought disorders. I work collaboratively with my patients and value feedback
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you have loss of interest, or why you consistently have low energy? Do you wonder why one day you are happy and the next day you are sad. Do you wonder why you consistently worry about everything, and you feel like your thoughts are racing in your head? If you answered yes to these questions, I would love to help. I have experience treating individuals from age 14- 99 years old. My focus is anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, and thought disorders. I work collaboratively with my patients and value feedback
(214) 888-3679 View (214) 888-3679
Photo of William Goldman, MD, Psychiatrist
William Goldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
I care about positive outcomes in my patients, and depend upon patients' and families' investment in the process of seeking health, recovery, and long-term well-being. I encourage collaboration with area psychotherapists as part of this process. My role is not that of a pill-pusher, but rather an expert diagnostician, guide, educator, and pharmacologic manager; likewise, I believe the patient's duty is to be an active participant in the process of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term recovery. *Please note that I do not participate in Medicare, Medicaid or any third-party payor or insurance panels.*
I care about positive outcomes in my patients, and depend upon patients' and families' investment in the process of seeking health, recovery, and long-term well-being. I encourage collaboration with area psychotherapists as part of this process. My role is not that of a pill-pusher, but rather an expert diagnostician, guide, educator, and pharmacologic manager; likewise, I believe the patient's duty is to be an active participant in the process of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term recovery. *Please note that I do not participate in Medicare, Medicaid or any third-party payor or insurance panels.*
(817) 533-8326 View (817) 533-8326

See more therapy options for 75212

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75212

< 10

Psychiatrists in 75212 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 75212 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75212?

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.