Psychiatrists in 75225

Photo of Katherine Day Mitchell, MD, Psychiatrist
Katherine Day Mitchell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
I provide individual psychotherapy with or without medication management for adults (ages 18+). I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Mood disorders, Adjustment disorders, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Grief, and Phase of life transitions. We’ll work together to decide if therapy, medication, or a combination is the best treatment plan for you.
I provide individual psychotherapy with or without medication management for adults (ages 18+). I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Mood disorders, Adjustment disorders, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Grief, and Phase of life transitions. We’ll work together to decide if therapy, medication, or a combination is the best treatment plan for you.
(469) 707-8093 View (469) 707-8093
Photo of Ifeoma Ukachukwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ifeoma Ukachukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs, including attention to your personal history including stressful or traumatic life experiences. My primary focuses are providing honest communication with you and providing quality resources.
I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs, including attention to your personal history including stressful or traumatic life experiences. My primary focuses are providing honest communication with you and providing quality resources.
(469) 423-6915 View (469) 423-6915
Photo of Shane Tipton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shane Tipton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working in the practice of Lee Spencer, MD, I provide comprehensive and personalized care for individuals 17 and older who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, mood disorders (including depression & bipolar disorder), post-traumatic stress, ADHD, problematic substance use, addictive disorders, and many other psychiatric illnesses.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working in the practice of Lee Spencer, MD, I provide comprehensive and personalized care for individuals 17 and older who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, mood disorders (including depression & bipolar disorder), post-traumatic stress, ADHD, problematic substance use, addictive disorders, and many other psychiatric illnesses.
(469) 838-5529 View (469) 838-5529
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(972) 308-0088 View (972) 308-0088
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(469) 871-7383 View (469) 871-7383
Photo of Everest Goldstein, PMHNP, APRN, MEd, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Everest Goldstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MEd, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
Everest is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background in Functional Medicine and integrative wellness interventions. She deeply cares about each of her patients and devotes her time to working closely with each of them to address their individual needs. Knowing the importance of the brain-body connection, Everest addresses the body as a whole to optimize health and wellness. If you are struggling mentally, emotionally, or physically, Everest is here to help you regain your life.
Everest is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background in Functional Medicine and integrative wellness interventions. She deeply cares about each of her patients and devotes her time to working closely with each of them to address their individual needs. Knowing the importance of the brain-body connection, Everest addresses the body as a whole to optimize health and wellness. If you are struggling mentally, emotionally, or physically, Everest is here to help you regain your life.
(469) 564-3401 View (469) 564-3401
Photo of Andrew Trinh, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew Trinh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
I treat clients ages 5 to 65, specializing in conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. My holistic treatment approach includes medication management, psychotherapy, and various other therapy modalities that best fit the client's unique needs.
I treat clients ages 5 to 65, specializing in conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. My holistic treatment approach includes medication management, psychotherapy, and various other therapy modalities that best fit the client's unique needs.
(469) 864-7689 View (469) 864-7689
Photo of Adeleye Ogunlade, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adeleye Ogunlade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
(214) 571-7130 View (214) 571-7130
Photo of Gwen Shipe, MD, Psychiatrist
Gwen Shipe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
(972) 441-5967 View (972) 441-5967
Photo of Dr. Laura Beard, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Laura Beard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
Your psychiatric care should do more than alleviate your symptoms. It should guide you toward a greater level of clarity and peace of mind than you had previously experienced. I offer comprehensive care in both psychotherapy and medication management, according to your needs and preferences. I will engage with you at your own pace, whether you are seeking direct answers to specific questions or a healing space for an in depth exploration of your personal history and emotions, or both. I have the experience and expertise to empower you to reach your goals.
Your psychiatric care should do more than alleviate your symptoms. It should guide you toward a greater level of clarity and peace of mind than you had previously experienced. I offer comprehensive care in both psychotherapy and medication management, according to your needs and preferences. I will engage with you at your own pace, whether you are seeking direct answers to specific questions or a healing space for an in depth exploration of your personal history and emotions, or both. I have the experience and expertise to empower you to reach your goals.
(214) 691-9090 View (214) 691-9090
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 Dr. Peace Bosire Okienya - 24-7 Shalom Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
24-7 Shalom Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
My expertise lies in providing compassionate, personalized care to patients suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. For individuals who have felt overwhelmed, lost, or hopeless, I offer a safe and welcoming environment to begin their healing journey. Through empathetic assessment, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing support, I guide patients in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.
My expertise lies in providing compassionate, personalized care to patients suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. For individuals who have felt overwhelmed, lost, or hopeless, I offer a safe and welcoming environment to begin their healing journey. Through empathetic assessment, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing support, I guide patients in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.
(469) 589-7456 View (469) 589-7456
Radhika Dani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
Waitlist for new clients
With my experience as clinician and teacher at the internationally-recognized Menninger Clinic and additional training in psychotherapy, I have special expertise in working with adults who are struggling to change paralyzing, painful or self-defeating patterns of experience, including depression, anxiety, relationship or work problems, low self-esteem and failure to achieve potential. If you prefer psychotherapy with minimal use of medications or if you have complex problems and have tried other treatments without getting well, I may be a good fit for you.
With my experience as clinician and teacher at the internationally-recognized Menninger Clinic and additional training in psychotherapy, I have special expertise in working with adults who are struggling to change paralyzing, painful or self-defeating patterns of experience, including depression, anxiety, relationship or work problems, low self-esteem and failure to achieve potential. If you prefer psychotherapy with minimal use of medications or if you have complex problems and have tried other treatments without getting well, I may be a good fit for you.
(469) 306-4446 View (469) 306-4446
Photo of Katherine Tharp, MD, Psychiatrist
Katherine Tharp
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. ​ If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. ​ If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
(254) 455-5344 View (254) 455-5344
Photo of Rebecca Birdsall, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Birdsall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
I have a diverse educational and nursing background. I earned my first Bachelors of Science in Physiology degree from Oklahoma State University, and later my Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma City University. I also earned my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I have been inducted into the Golden Key Honors Society as well as Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing. I worked for nearly a decade as a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse in a variety of critical care settings before following my passion into psychiatry and mental health.
I have a diverse educational and nursing background. I earned my first Bachelors of Science in Physiology degree from Oklahoma State University, and later my Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma City University. I also earned my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I have been inducted into the Golden Key Honors Society as well as Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing. I worked for nearly a decade as a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse in a variety of critical care settings before following my passion into psychiatry and mental health.
(682) 688-8963 View (682) 688-8963
Photo of Thomas A Grugle, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas A Grugle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
Not accepting new clients
Psychiatry AND Psychotherapy - emotional problems are complex - there is seldom a simple solution to them. If you’ve tried and given up on therapy, try again! I specialize in challenging problems. All of my patients are treated with compassion and dignity. I am LGBT affirming, and I don't discriminate based on anything. Some of the problems commonly addressed in treatment include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, OCD, sexual problems, career challenges and relationship troubles.
Psychiatry AND Psychotherapy - emotional problems are complex - there is seldom a simple solution to them. If you’ve tried and given up on therapy, try again! I specialize in challenging problems. All of my patients are treated with compassion and dignity. I am LGBT affirming, and I don't discriminate based on anything. Some of the problems commonly addressed in treatment include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, OCD, sexual problems, career challenges and relationship troubles.
(469) 284-0634 View (469) 284-0634
Photo of Preston Wiles, MD, Psychiatrist
Preston Wiles
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Wiles is not currently taking new patients. Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He formerly ran the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He now sees patients only through Transitional Age Youth Clinic at UTSW. He is a qualified mindfulness instructor via CFM at U Mass, Jon Kabat Zinn's program.
Dr. Wiles is not currently taking new patients. Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He formerly ran the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He now sees patients only through Transitional Age Youth Clinic at UTSW. He is a qualified mindfulness instructor via CFM at U Mass, Jon Kabat Zinn's program.
(475) 242-8896 View (475) 242-8896
Photo of Mark Allen, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark Allen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
At Peak Sports Psychiatry, PLLC, I focus on diagnosing, treating, and preventing the mental health challenges that may arise in elite sport. Utilizing a nuanced, athlete-informed approach, I complete a thorough diagnostic evaluation and then collaboratively develop an individualized treatment plan for each athlete with the goal of optimizing performance on and off the field. Treatment options may include individual therapy, medication management, and practical advice/coaching to optimize sleep, nutrition, exercise, coping skills, and relationships (with family members, teammates, coaches, etc).
At Peak Sports Psychiatry, PLLC, I focus on diagnosing, treating, and preventing the mental health challenges that may arise in elite sport. Utilizing a nuanced, athlete-informed approach, I complete a thorough diagnostic evaluation and then collaboratively develop an individualized treatment plan for each athlete with the goal of optimizing performance on and off the field. Treatment options may include individual therapy, medication management, and practical advice/coaching to optimize sleep, nutrition, exercise, coping skills, and relationships (with family members, teammates, coaches, etc).
(720) 730-5024 View (720) 730-5024
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Omotayo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Stephanie Omotayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
Accepting New Patients. You deserve a life that makes you happy. To wake up in the morning, and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. I love helping regardless of gender, race, or sexuality. For people with opioid addiction, I prescribe Buprenorphine.
Accepting New Patients. You deserve a life that makes you happy. To wake up in the morning, and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. I love helping regardless of gender, race, or sexuality. For people with opioid addiction, I prescribe Buprenorphine.
(214) 623-6732 View (214) 623-6732
Photo of Aekta Malhotra, MD, Psychiatrist
Aekta Malhotra
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
Welcome to Apollo Psychiatry! Wait time < 2 weeks. The doctor-patient relationship takes time, and it is the most important aspect of my practice. At Apollo Psychiatry, patients are treated as whole beings, inviting and honoring the full spectrum of emotions that make them uniquely human. You will be offered a customized and collaborative approach to treatment and a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. I see patients aged 18-70 in both Texas and Colorado, who can pay privately or use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement. Services are delivered over a HIPAA secure Zoom platform.
Welcome to Apollo Psychiatry! Wait time < 2 weeks. The doctor-patient relationship takes time, and it is the most important aspect of my practice. At Apollo Psychiatry, patients are treated as whole beings, inviting and honoring the full spectrum of emotions that make them uniquely human. You will be offered a customized and collaborative approach to treatment and a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. I see patients aged 18-70 in both Texas and Colorado, who can pay privately or use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement. Services are delivered over a HIPAA secure Zoom platform.
(469) 716-5868 View (469) 716-5868
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75225

20+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 75225 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% ADHD
64% Trauma and PTSD
64% Bipolar Disorder
64% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 75225 see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Female
45% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75225?

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.