Psychiatrists in 75231

Photo of Damilola Salako - Salako Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Salako Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Thank you for stopping by and learning more about the services offered at Salako Psychiatry. My first and only priority from the moment you walk through the door is YOU. I wholeheartedly believe that medical and psychiatric care is a collaborative experience and I strive to ensure clear communication of treatment goals and plans so that we are always on the same page. We do not have a waitlist at this time. I offer discounted rates to college and graduate students.
Thank you for stopping by and learning more about the services offered at Salako Psychiatry. My first and only priority from the moment you walk through the door is YOU. I wholeheartedly believe that medical and psychiatric care is a collaborative experience and I strive to ensure clear communication of treatment goals and plans so that we are always on the same page. We do not have a waitlist at this time. I offer discounted rates to college and graduate students.
(469) 747-0553 View (469) 747-0553
Photo of Jaime Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jaime Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
You feel overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious and depressed. You have trouble getting a good night sleep even though you are exhausted. You find yourself turning to food or alcohol to try to help yourself feel better. You find you are not enjoying your life, and that it has begun to feel like one long to do list.
You feel overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious and depressed. You have trouble getting a good night sleep even though you are exhausted. You find yourself turning to food or alcohol to try to help yourself feel better. You find you are not enjoying your life, and that it has begun to feel like one long to do list.
(469) 256-7653 View (469) 256-7653
Photo of Janet Lawhon, Psychiatrist, DO
Janet Lawhon
Psychiatrist, DO
Dallas, TX 75231
You want more than just a prescription- you want someone who listens deeply and understands both the science and the soul behind your struggles. I'm a double, board -certified psychiatrist who provides thoughtful, integrative care for adults and children facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, life transitions or chronic emotional patterns that feel stuck. Whether you're navigating a diagnosis, or seeking meaning in the second half of life, my goal is to offer clear guidance, respect your values, and help you move forward- not just functionally, but meaningfully.
You want more than just a prescription- you want someone who listens deeply and understands both the science and the soul behind your struggles. I'm a double, board -certified psychiatrist who provides thoughtful, integrative care for adults and children facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, life transitions or chronic emotional patterns that feel stuck. Whether you're navigating a diagnosis, or seeking meaning in the second half of life, my goal is to offer clear guidance, respect your values, and help you move forward- not just functionally, but meaningfully.
(469) 715-3758 View (469) 715-3758
Photo of Dr. Laura Beard, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Laura Beard
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
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 Lakesha Sawyer-Strickland - Good Inner-G LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Good Inner-G LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
If you’re high-functioning but silently struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or unresolved trauma-you’re not alone. You may appear to have it all together, but inside you feel emotionally drained, disconnected, or overwhelmed. You're ready to set healthier boundaries, improve your mental well-being, and feel more in control of your life. Most of all, you're seeking peace, clarity, and support that genuinely understands you. I'm here to help you reconnect with your inner strength and guide you toward healing that lasts.
If you’re high-functioning but silently struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or unresolved trauma-you’re not alone. You may appear to have it all together, but inside you feel emotionally drained, disconnected, or overwhelmed. You're ready to set healthier boundaries, improve your mental well-being, and feel more in control of your life. Most of all, you're seeking peace, clarity, and support that genuinely understands you. I'm here to help you reconnect with your inner strength and guide you toward healing that lasts.
(469) 351-1833 View (469) 351-1833
Photo of Gary Michael Bernard, Psychiatrist, MD
Gary Michael Bernard
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
I am a double-board certified Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrist with extensive clinical and educational experience that spans inpatient, outpatient, military, civilian, veteran, public, academic and private practice settings. I am a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and hold active unrestricted medical licenses in AL, AZ, FL, CT, NY, TX. I specialize in occupational Psychiatry with a focus on performance optimization.
I am a double-board certified Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrist with extensive clinical and educational experience that spans inpatient, outpatient, military, civilian, veteran, public, academic and private practice settings. I am a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and hold active unrestricted medical licenses in AL, AZ, FL, CT, NY, TX. I specialize in occupational Psychiatry with a focus on performance optimization.
(504) 514-8134 View (504) 514-8134
Photo of Brandon N. Respress, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, MSN, MPH, PMHNPBC
Brandon N. Respress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, MSN, MPH, PMHNPBC
Dallas, TX 75231
Is there something limiting your ability to live, love, laugh or becoming who you were meant to be? Talking to someone about your concerns may be helpful. As a nurse for over 25 years, I have often noted that the source of many of the physical complaints noted for ER visits (i.e., chest pain, abdominal pain, and headaches) were related to emotional distress, anxiety, grieving processes, and depression. No matter the age. By being authentic, empathetic, and taking the time to listen, I was able to help clients identify a major source of their "dis-ease." Engaging in a therapeutic conversation helped them and can help you too.
Is there something limiting your ability to live, love, laugh or becoming who you were meant to be? Talking to someone about your concerns may be helpful. As a nurse for over 25 years, I have often noted that the source of many of the physical complaints noted for ER visits (i.e., chest pain, abdominal pain, and headaches) were related to emotional distress, anxiety, grieving processes, and depression. No matter the age. By being authentic, empathetic, and taking the time to listen, I was able to help clients identify a major source of their "dis-ease." Engaging in a therapeutic conversation helped them and can help you too.
(469) 423-8336 View (469) 423-8336
Photo of Maya Christianne Peris, Psychiatrist, MD
Maya Christianne Peris
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
If you are a person with depression, stress and anxiety, in various areas of life, work ,relationships, you're curious about why these uncomfortable feelings are so intense...., then this is the place for you... I will do an initial consultation , to determine your unique characteristics , past history, and then decide whether to treat with medication, Psychotherapy or both...,I will get you to a more comfortable place symptom wise, and then work on developing better coping skills..
If you are a person with depression, stress and anxiety, in various areas of life, work ,relationships, you're curious about why these uncomfortable feelings are so intense...., then this is the place for you... I will do an initial consultation , to determine your unique characteristics , past history, and then decide whether to treat with medication, Psychotherapy or both...,I will get you to a more comfortable place symptom wise, and then work on developing better coping skills..
(469) 249-3225 View (469) 249-3225
Photo of Jackie Michael - Dr. Jackie Michael, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Dr. Jackie Michael
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Facing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and ADHD especially during life transitions can feel overwhelming. I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore concerns, heal, and strengthen their emotional well-being. My goal is to help you recognize inner strengths, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Facing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and ADHD especially during life transitions can feel overwhelming. I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore concerns, heal, and strengthen their emotional well-being. My goal is to help you recognize inner strengths, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(469) 940-7242 View (469) 940-7242
Photo of Kelvin Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Kelvin Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Have you ever struggled with low confidence, grief, depression, frustration, or the uncertainty that comes with major life transitions? If so, we can work together to find a path forward. Every person is unique, and each of us responds to life’s challenges differently. Sometimes we need clarity about what we can and cannot change; other times, we need support and encouragement to take the next step.
Have you ever struggled with low confidence, grief, depression, frustration, or the uncertainty that comes with major life transitions? If so, we can work together to find a path forward. Every person is unique, and each of us responds to life’s challenges differently. Sometimes we need clarity about what we can and cannot change; other times, we need support and encouragement to take the next step.
(469) 290-3514 View (469) 290-3514
Photo of Farah Raqib, Psychiatrist, MD
Farah Raqib
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit my website.
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit my website.
(469) 224-5360 View (469) 224-5360
Photo of Dr. Sameera Rasheed, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sameera Rasheed
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
Dr. Sameera Rasheed is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist originally from Karachi, Pakistan. She earned her medical degree from Jinnah Sindh Medical University in Karachi and completed her residency at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Sameera Rasheed is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist originally from Karachi, Pakistan. She earned her medical degree from Jinnah Sindh Medical University in Karachi and completed her residency at the University of North Dakota.
(972) 845-4553 View (972) 845-4553
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(214) 428-6492 View (214) 428-6492
Photo of Bruce Bassi - TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs, Psychiatrist, MD, LCPC, CADC
TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs
Psychiatrist, MD, LCPC, CADC
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
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 Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(469) 746-3676 View (469) 746-3676
Photo of Dr. Ivy Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Ivy Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
12 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client spans children age 6 through geriatrics who may appear high-functioning yet feel overwhelmed internally. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, sleep issues, or life-transition stressors. Many seek care after feeling unheard or overmedicated and want thoughtful, evidence-based treatment. They value a provider who listens, educates, and integrates medical and psychiatric care. Their goal is lasting emotional stability, improved functioning, and a better quality of life through collaborative, patient-centered care.
My ideal client spans children age 6 through geriatrics who may appear high-functioning yet feel overwhelmed internally. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, sleep issues, or life-transition stressors. Many seek care after feeling unheard or overmedicated and want thoughtful, evidence-based treatment. They value a provider who listens, educates, and integrates medical and psychiatric care. Their goal is lasting emotional stability, improved functioning, and a better quality of life through collaborative, patient-centered care.
(972) 992-5572 View (972) 992-5572
Photo of Mahreen Ahmed - Mindpath Health, Psychiatrist
Mindpath Health
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
(855) 976-2039 View (855) 976-2039
Photo of Jennifer Roberts-Clayton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Roberts-Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving children, teens, adults, and seniors across outpatient, in-home, and treatment settings. I address a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other emotional and behavioral challenges. My approach is thoughtful, collaborative, and tailored to fit each person’s lifestyle and goals. Rooted in psychoanalytic theory, I believe many emotional struggles stem from unconscious conflicts and unresolved experiences. These hidden patterns often affect how we feel and connect with others.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving children, teens, adults, and seniors across outpatient, in-home, and treatment settings. I address a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other emotional and behavioral challenges. My approach is thoughtful, collaborative, and tailored to fit each person’s lifestyle and goals. Rooted in psychoanalytic theory, I believe many emotional struggles stem from unconscious conflicts and unresolved experiences. These hidden patterns often affect how we feel and connect with others.
(469) 840-1428 View (469) 840-1428
Photo of Lizette Nji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Lizette Nji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Everyone wants to feel heard especially when it comes to one's health. I want you to know that I am here to listen and together we can formulate a treatment plan best for you. I have been in mental health for over 3 years and being a part of your journey, ensuring your success, is what drives me. Our first session discusses specific mental health concerns, personal goals, treatment history, and tailored care options. Follow-up sessions assess medication efficacy and progress.
Everyone wants to feel heard especially when it comes to one's health. I want you to know that I am here to listen and together we can formulate a treatment plan best for you. I have been in mental health for over 3 years and being a part of your journey, ensuring your success, is what drives me. Our first session discusses specific mental health concerns, personal goals, treatment history, and tailored care options. Follow-up sessions assess medication efficacy and progress.
(214) 623-6748 View (214) 623-6748
Photo of Ngomeni Mbilikira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ngomeni Mbilikira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The Journey to Mental Wellness Starts here . As a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with desire for providing compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges is my passion. With years of experience in the field, I approach each session with care, possessing a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and treatments modalities. I treat the following mental health conditions including: Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Psychosis, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD, Substance Use, Stress Disorders,OCD and Sleep Disorders Disorders.
The Journey to Mental Wellness Starts here . As a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with desire for providing compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges is my passion. With years of experience in the field, I approach each session with care, possessing a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and treatments modalities. I treat the following mental health conditions including: Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Psychosis, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD, Substance Use, Stress Disorders,OCD and Sleep Disorders Disorders.
(469) 351-6650 View (469) 351-6650

See more therapy options for 75231

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75231

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 75231 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
93% Depression
77% Medication Management
73% Bipolar Disorder
63% ADHD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
53% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
92% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 75231 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75231?

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.