Psychiatrists in 75219

Photo of Ronald Fleischmann, Psychiatrist, MD
Ronald Fleischmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75219
Treatment should be individualized according to a patient's problems and special needs. That may include therapy with or without medication. After making a thoughtful diagnosis, you and I would agree on a treatment plan that would help you to achieve relief from your difficulties. By attentively listening to you and asking relevant questions, I would help you resolve the underlying conflicts that contribute to your distress. By understanding the problem I can help you find the tools to find peace from the problems that disturb you.
Treatment should be individualized according to a patient's problems and special needs. That may include therapy with or without medication. After making a thoughtful diagnosis, you and I would agree on a treatment plan that would help you to achieve relief from your difficulties. By attentively listening to you and asking relevant questions, I would help you resolve the underlying conflicts that contribute to your distress. By understanding the problem I can help you find the tools to find peace from the problems that disturb you.
(469) 200-4657 View (469) 200-4657
Photo of Njideka Domrufus - ZIks Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
ZIks Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Dallas, TX 75219
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(214) 692-2941 View (214) 692-2941
Photo of Peter Triporo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ACNP-BC
Peter Triporo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ACNP-BC
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. If you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can feel heard, valued, and understood. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. I provide psychiatric care, including medication management, and have a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and those overcoming addiction or substance use challenges. Together, we’ll work toward healing, balance, and feeling more like yourself again.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. If you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can feel heard, valued, and understood. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. I provide psychiatric care, including medication management, and have a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and those overcoming addiction or substance use challenges. Together, we’ll work toward healing, balance, and feeling more like yourself again.
(469) 457-2058 View (469) 457-2058
Photo of Jay Ross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Jay Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Dallas, TX 75219
You may be seeking support because you feel stuck — perhaps anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, or life transitions have left you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. I work with adults who want thoughtful, whole-person psychiatric care that looks beyond symptoms alone. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression, offering integrative psychiatric care that may include medication management alongside evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and CBT. My style is trauma-informed, collaborative, and paced to meet you where you are, with a focus on identifying root contributors to distress rather than simply managing symptoms.
You may be seeking support because you feel stuck — perhaps anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, or life transitions have left you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. I work with adults who want thoughtful, whole-person psychiatric care that looks beyond symptoms alone. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression, offering integrative psychiatric care that may include medication management alongside evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and CBT. My style is trauma-informed, collaborative, and paced to meet you where you are, with a focus on identifying root contributors to distress rather than simply managing symptoms.
(972) 645-4294 View (972) 645-4294
Photo of Bruce Bassi - TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs, Psychiatrist, MD, LCPC, CADC
TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs
Psychiatrist, MD, LCPC, CADC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
(312) 313-3966 View (312) 313-3966
Photo of Misty Embrey, Psychiatrist, MD
Misty Embrey
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Embrey is an integrative and holistic child and adult psychiatrist in Alexandria, VA and Washington, DC. She is also seeing patients from Maryland, Wisconsin, and Texas. Having trained at Johns Hopkins, she treats psychiatric illnesses with an approach that involves evaluation and treatment via traditional psychiatric methods, medications, and therapy. She also includes an assessment of how complementary interventions may be helpful toward finding mental, emotional, and spiritual balance and vitality.
Dr. Embrey is an integrative and holistic child and adult psychiatrist in Alexandria, VA and Washington, DC. She is also seeing patients from Maryland, Wisconsin, and Texas. Having trained at Johns Hopkins, she treats psychiatric illnesses with an approach that involves evaluation and treatment via traditional psychiatric methods, medications, and therapy. She also includes an assessment of how complementary interventions may be helpful toward finding mental, emotional, and spiritual balance and vitality.
(240) 600-1943 View (240) 600-1943
Photo of Christologus Obi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Christologus Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Chris is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of extensive medical experience. Driven by a deep-rooted passion for understanding the underlying causes of mental issues, he spurred my journey into Holistic and Functional Medicine. Through this unique approach, he's dedicated to unraveling the root causes of your mental issues to optimize holistic health. Gone are the days of merely masking symptoms with medications. With a commitment to personalized care and a focus on improving health from its core, he's dedicated to making a profound impact on the lives of individuals seeking comprehensive mental solutions.
Chris is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of extensive medical experience. Driven by a deep-rooted passion for understanding the underlying causes of mental issues, he spurred my journey into Holistic and Functional Medicine. Through this unique approach, he's dedicated to unraveling the root causes of your mental issues to optimize holistic health. Gone are the days of merely masking symptoms with medications. With a commitment to personalized care and a focus on improving health from its core, he's dedicated to making a profound impact on the lives of individuals seeking comprehensive mental solutions.
(469) 966-6911 View (469) 966-6911
Photo of John Bowden - Kind Health, Psychiatrist
Kind Health
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Our ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or ADHD who values accessible, compassionate care. They may struggle with barriers such as busy schedules, remote locations, or privacy concerns, seeking a safe, judgment-free environment. They want flexible appointments, expert providers offering personalized treatments, and consistent support. Their goal is to regain stability, improve relationships, and enhance their well-being. Kind Health delivers empathetic, effective care tailored to their needs, helping them achieve clarity and control in their lives.
Our ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or ADHD who values accessible, compassionate care. They may struggle with barriers such as busy schedules, remote locations, or privacy concerns, seeking a safe, judgment-free environment. They want flexible appointments, expert providers offering personalized treatments, and consistent support. Their goal is to regain stability, improve relationships, and enhance their well-being. Kind Health delivers empathetic, effective care tailored to their needs, helping them achieve clarity and control in their lives.
(214) 983-9807 View (214) 983-9807
Photo of Anna Salinas - Anna Salinas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Anna Salinas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, or emotionally drained—and wondering if medication could help you feel more like yourself again? I specialize in psychiatric medication management for navigating ADHD, depression, and anxiety from childhood through older adulthood. My practice is welcoming to patients with ADHD, executive function challenges, sensory sensitivities, emotional intensity, or atypical communication styles. You do not need to mask, over‑explain, or “perform” to receive thoughtful, respectful care.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, or emotionally drained—and wondering if medication could help you feel more like yourself again? I specialize in psychiatric medication management for navigating ADHD, depression, and anxiety from childhood through older adulthood. My practice is welcoming to patients with ADHD, executive function challenges, sensory sensitivities, emotional intensity, or atypical communication styles. You do not need to mask, over‑explain, or “perform” to receive thoughtful, respectful care.
(281) 938-3427 View (281) 938-3427
Photo of Ifeoma Nweke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ifeoma Nweke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal clients are adults and adolescents who are ready to actively engage in improving their mental health. Many are navigating generalized anxiety, major depressive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, or other challenges that make daily life feel heavy. They want clarity, relief, and a sense of control again. They are looking for support that feels structured, collaborative, and truly centered around who they are and what they need to move forward.
My ideal clients are adults and adolescents who are ready to actively engage in improving their mental health. Many are navigating generalized anxiety, major depressive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, or other challenges that make daily life feel heavy. They want clarity, relief, and a sense of control again. They are looking for support that feels structured, collaborative, and truly centered around who they are and what they need to move forward.
(469) 991-2134 View (469) 991-2134
Photo of Asajnae Mercadel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Asajnae Mercadel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Struggling with sleep issues, mood swings, anxiety, depression, PTSD or inability to focus? If so, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Many of my clients come to me feeling frustrated or unsure of what’s going on, but ready for change. I provide a supportive space where we can identify what’s contributing to your symptoms and create a clear, personalized plan to help you move forward and feel more in control.
Struggling with sleep issues, mood swings, anxiety, depression, PTSD or inability to focus? If so, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Many of my clients come to me feeling frustrated or unsure of what’s going on, but ready for change. I provide a supportive space where we can identify what’s contributing to your symptoms and create a clear, personalized plan to help you move forward and feel more in control.
(346) 680-2796 View (346) 680-2796
Christopher Chee
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my practice. I am a psychiatrist with dual board certifications in General Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. My training at UT Southwestern and UC San Francisco is diverse, patient-centered, and evidence-based. These experiences have given me an understanding and appreciation of people from all walks of life.
Welcome to my practice. I am a psychiatrist with dual board certifications in General Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. My training at UT Southwestern and UC San Francisco is diverse, patient-centered, and evidence-based. These experiences have given me an understanding and appreciation of people from all walks of life.
(817) 241-3579 View (817) 241-3579

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Zainab Zia - Excel Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Excel Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
Schedule appointment online at www.excel-psychiatry.com or call at designated number. Dr. Zia is a Double Board-Certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist with 10 years of experience in diagnosing and treating common Psychiatric conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Dr. Zia completed her residency training at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee. She did her fellowship from University of Texas Southwestern Medial School, Dallas, TX in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
Schedule appointment online at www.excel-psychiatry.com or call at designated number. Dr. Zia is a Double Board-Certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist with 10 years of experience in diagnosing and treating common Psychiatric conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Dr. Zia completed her residency training at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee. She did her fellowship from University of Texas Southwestern Medial School, Dallas, TX in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
(469) 287-7191 View (469) 287-7191
Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry , Psychiatrist, MD
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
(972) 382-5179 View (972) 382-5179
Photo of Krishnendu Ghosh, Psychiatrist, MD
Krishnendu Ghosh
Psychiatrist, MD
Little Elm, TX 75068
I’m a double board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Texas and currently accepting new patients. I offer in-person and virtual appointments, often available within 72 hours. I treat depression, ADHD, anxiety/OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma/PTSD, and also support people navigating life stress such as grief, divorce, or career changes. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and collaborative—focused on helping you feel heard, understood, and supported with evidence-based care tailored to you.
I’m a double board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Texas and currently accepting new patients. I offer in-person and virtual appointments, often available within 72 hours. I treat depression, ADHD, anxiety/OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma/PTSD, and also support people navigating life stress such as grief, divorce, or career changes. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and collaborative—focused on helping you feel heard, understood, and supported with evidence-based care tailored to you.
(972) 573-6221 View (972) 573-6221
Photo of Oluwatoyin Aluko - Mind-touch Psychiatric care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mind-touch Psychiatric care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
Mind Touch Clinic is a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional who is passionate about helping patients heal and live their best lives. We takes pride in providing high-quality, all-encompassing care to all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances. We are committed to providing my patients with the latest and most effective treatments available. We stay up-to-date on the latest research and developments in my field, and we constantly learn new ways to help my patients. We can help people with mental health challenges through education, support, and resource connections.
Mind Touch Clinic is a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional who is passionate about helping patients heal and live their best lives. We takes pride in providing high-quality, all-encompassing care to all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances. We are committed to providing my patients with the latest and most effective treatments available. We stay up-to-date on the latest research and developments in my field, and we constantly learn new ways to help my patients. We can help people with mental health challenges through education, support, and resource connections.
(682) 628-7938 View (682) 628-7938
Photo of Kathryn Rose Farishta - Mental Fitness Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mental Fitness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Colleyville, TX 76034
Kathryn Farishta is a fellowship-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience in behavioral healthcare. Her compassion and dedication earned her the honor of being selected as one of the DFW's Top 100 Nurses of 2023. Her education includes a Master of Science in Nursing from UTA, subsequently earning board certification from the ANCC. Post-graduation she completed a community-focused psychiatric advanced practice provider fellowship where she trained throughout the healthcare continuum including psychiatric emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and consult-liaison services.
Kathryn Farishta is a fellowship-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience in behavioral healthcare. Her compassion and dedication earned her the honor of being selected as one of the DFW's Top 100 Nurses of 2023. Her education includes a Master of Science in Nursing from UTA, subsequently earning board certification from the ANCC. Post-graduation she completed a community-focused psychiatric advanced practice provider fellowship where she trained throughout the healthcare continuum including psychiatric emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and consult-liaison services.
(817) 813-9368 View (817) 813-9368
Photo of Dr. Nicholas Skefos, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Nicholas Skefos
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Skefos is a Harvard-trained, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology—Board Certified Psychiatrist, treating children, adolescents, and adults across Texas.
Dr. Skefos is a Harvard-trained, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology—Board Certified Psychiatrist, treating children, adolescents, and adults across Texas.
(713) 930-3334 View (713) 930-3334
Photo of Sarah Ilesanmi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarah Ilesanmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I’m a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the provider behind Fresh Therapeutic Solutions, where compassionate, high-quality care is at the center of everything we do. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and life stressors through a personalized, evidence-based approach. I combine clinical expertise with a genuine commitment to understanding each client’s unique journey. My mission is to create a space where you feel supported, empowered, and confident in your path toward better mental health.
I’m a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the provider behind Fresh Therapeutic Solutions, where compassionate, high-quality care is at the center of everything we do. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and life stressors through a personalized, evidence-based approach. I combine clinical expertise with a genuine commitment to understanding each client’s unique journey. My mission is to create a space where you feel supported, empowered, and confident in your path toward better mental health.
(281) 393-0128 View (281) 393-0128
Photo of Joseph Micci, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Joseph Micci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012
Joseph Micci is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University where he then worked at John Peter Smith Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry for 6 years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Joe works with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing a calm and supportive environment.
Joseph Micci is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University where he then worked at John Peter Smith Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry for 6 years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Joe works with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing a calm and supportive environment.
(817) 952-1654 View (817) 952-1654

See more therapy options for 75219

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75219

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 75219 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Medication Management
75% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 75219 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Male
44% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75219?

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.