Psychiatrists in 75235

Photo of Jennifer Kent Autry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Kent Autry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75235
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
(469) 281-9350 View (469) 281-9350
Photo of Angela Udeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angela Udeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75235
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
(240) 635-9564 View (240) 635-9564
Photo of Victoria Chisara Duru - VICCpsychiatry, pllc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
VICCpsychiatry, pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Victoria Duru has a dual board certification as a Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Victoria is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating patients with psychiatric disorders, specializing in treating major depression, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I am licensed in TX, Arizona, New Mexico, & Oregon.
Victoria Duru has a dual board certification as a Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Victoria is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating patients with psychiatric disorders, specializing in treating major depression, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I am licensed in TX, Arizona, New Mexico, & Oregon.
(832) 979-9828 View (832) 979-9828
Photo of Britton Bahador, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMSW, PMHNP
Britton Bahador
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMSW, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75235
Saturday appointments available. People of all ages and backgrounds reach out for mental health care and treatment for a variety of reasons, including- depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and emotional disturbances as a result of life circumstances. People want to feel understood and supported on their path to finding mental and individual wellness for themselves or their loved ones. Mental health care should be patient, supportive, and a collaborate approach between individual and practitioner and be tailored to each individuals' specific needs.
Saturday appointments available. People of all ages and backgrounds reach out for mental health care and treatment for a variety of reasons, including- depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and emotional disturbances as a result of life circumstances. People want to feel understood and supported on their path to finding mental and individual wellness for themselves or their loved ones. Mental health care should be patient, supportive, and a collaborate approach between individual and practitioner and be tailored to each individuals' specific needs.
(214) 522-4640 View (214) 522-4640
Photo of Aimee Theresa Dunnam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Aimee Theresa Dunnam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you awaken the night, anxious but do not know why? Lay awake for hours unable to turn off your mind? Feel so fatigued, drained, and down that you can't get out of bed? May have lost your job, feel unworthy, and couldn't think of a reason to live? Life circumstances can grip you so tightly that you feel as if you are unable to get free, to take the necessary steps to move forward - to find a future full of hope. If your goal is to take back your life and map a course for a newly restored you, then you have arrived at the start of your destination.
Do you awaken the night, anxious but do not know why? Lay awake for hours unable to turn off your mind? Feel so fatigued, drained, and down that you can't get out of bed? May have lost your job, feel unworthy, and couldn't think of a reason to live? Life circumstances can grip you so tightly that you feel as if you are unable to get free, to take the necessary steps to move forward - to find a future full of hope. If your goal is to take back your life and map a course for a newly restored you, then you have arrived at the start of your destination.
(469) 833-4501 View (469) 833-4501
Photo of Yaa Brago - Harmony Neuro Behavioral Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Harmony Neuro Behavioral Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Yaa B. is a board certified nurse practitioner who offers compassion,empathy and a sense of humor, making it easy to communicate with all patients and families across the lifespan. She has worked in a variety of setting such as psychiatric emergency, inpatient hospital, and rehabilitation. She has a strong passion for helping Patients get better on a personal level.
Yaa B. is a board certified nurse practitioner who offers compassion,empathy and a sense of humor, making it easy to communicate with all patients and families across the lifespan. She has worked in a variety of setting such as psychiatric emergency, inpatient hospital, and rehabilitation. She has a strong passion for helping Patients get better on a personal level.
(214) 466-2205 View (214) 466-2205
Photo of Dr. Steffi Mendoza, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Steffi Mendoza
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with ADHD and mood dysregulation find relief from depression or irritability, decrease anger outbursts, build a positive self-esteem, develop healthier relationships, and improve their organization and performance at school or work. Similar to working with a pediatrician over the first 18 years of life, I work with my patients over an extended period of time to improve and maintain optimal mental health through each stage of development. As a trusted provider for your family, I also partner with parents in supporting their children to become more joyful and confident individuals.
I help children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with ADHD and mood dysregulation find relief from depression or irritability, decrease anger outbursts, build a positive self-esteem, develop healthier relationships, and improve their organization and performance at school or work. Similar to working with a pediatrician over the first 18 years of life, I work with my patients over an extended period of time to improve and maintain optimal mental health through each stage of development. As a trusted provider for your family, I also partner with parents in supporting their children to become more joyful and confident individuals.
(972) 564-8839 View (972) 564-8839

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Heather Inano, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Heather Inano
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Inano is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She obtained her bachelor’s in psychology from Xavier University in New Orleans, before obtaining her medical degree from University of California Davis. She then went on to complete a general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas at Austin Dell School of Medicine. Prior to making the transition to private practice, Dr. Inano worked within the Veterans Affairs healthcare system.
Dr. Inano is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She obtained her bachelor’s in psychology from Xavier University in New Orleans, before obtaining her medical degree from University of California Davis. She then went on to complete a general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas at Austin Dell School of Medicine. Prior to making the transition to private practice, Dr. Inano worked within the Veterans Affairs healthcare system.
(469) 972-6428 View (469) 972-6428
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Plano, TX 75093
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(972) 303-8767 View (972) 303-8767
Photo of William Goldman, Psychiatrist, MD
William Goldman
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I care about positive outcomes in my patients, and depend upon patients' and families' investment in the process of seeking improved mental health and long-term well-being, and I encourage collaboration with psychotherapists as part of this process. My role is not that of a "pill-pusher," but rather an expert diagnostician, mental healthcare guide, psychoeducator, and pharmacologic treatment. I believe the patient's duty is to be an active participant in the process of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term mental health. To ensure the best care possible, I do NOT participate in Medicare, Medicaid or any insurance panels.*
I care about positive outcomes in my patients, and depend upon patients' and families' investment in the process of seeking improved mental health and long-term well-being, and I encourage collaboration with psychotherapists as part of this process. My role is not that of a "pill-pusher," but rather an expert diagnostician, mental healthcare guide, psychoeducator, and pharmacologic treatment. I believe the patient's duty is to be an active participant in the process of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term mental health. To ensure the best care possible, I do NOT participate in Medicare, Medicaid or any insurance panels.*
(817) 533-8326 View (817) 533-8326
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(817) 309-6051 View (817) 309-6051
Photo of Linda Akudo - LinMed Behavioral Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
LinMed Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
(214) 544-9885 View (214) 544-9885
Photo of 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 Anabel Winiecki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anabel Winiecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Anabel Winiecki, and I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained to treat behavioral and mental health across the lifespan. I graduated with my master's in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. My past experiences in education and work have equipped me to work well with diverse populations, be culturally competent, and have a wide array of training across specialties. With specialties in the areas of addiction, abuse, trauma, as well as general mental and behavioral health, we will work together to help meet your individualized needs.
I am Anabel Winiecki, and I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained to treat behavioral and mental health across the lifespan. I graduated with my master's in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. My past experiences in education and work have equipped me to work well with diverse populations, be culturally competent, and have a wide array of training across specialties. With specialties in the areas of addiction, abuse, trauma, as well as general mental and behavioral health, we will work together to help meet your individualized needs.
(737) 284-1449 View (737) 284-1449
Photo of Kristen Dale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristen Dale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with your mental health? Perhaps you suspect a diagnosis or have received one and want to feel more empowered to feel better. I'd like to work with you! I offer a holistic approach to address not just symptoms but root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with your mental health? Perhaps you suspect a diagnosis or have received one and want to feel more empowered to feel better. I'd like to work with you! I offer a holistic approach to address not just symptoms but root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives.
(469) 564-4422 View (469) 564-4422
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
(469) 517-3734 View (469) 517-3734
Photo of Dr. Ferdinand Akoko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Ferdinand Akoko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Plano, TX 75075
Welcome! I’m Dr. Ferdinand Akoko DNP, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, and adjustment disorders. My practice focuses on providing thoughtful medication management and collaborative care in a compassionate, nonjudgmental space. In our initial sessions, we’ll work together to build a trusting therapeutic relationship and develop a tailored plan. I take an integrative approach, which allows me to consider all aspects of your health and well-being as we work toward lasting solutions.
Welcome! I’m Dr. Ferdinand Akoko DNP, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, and adjustment disorders. My practice focuses on providing thoughtful medication management and collaborative care in a compassionate, nonjudgmental space. In our initial sessions, we’ll work together to build a trusting therapeutic relationship and develop a tailored plan. I take an integrative approach, which allows me to consider all aspects of your health and well-being as we work toward lasting solutions.
(254) 329-2600 View (254) 329-2600
Photo of Kate Okwesa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Kate Okwesa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Kate Okwesa is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a positive patient experience while caring for all her patients. She strives to provide holistic, evidence-based care and holds herself to the highest standard of care, taking into consideration all aspects of her patient's health needs.
Kate Okwesa is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a positive patient experience while caring for all her patients. She strives to provide holistic, evidence-based care and holds herself to the highest standard of care, taking into consideration all aspects of her patient's health needs.
(214) 888-8746 View (214) 888-8746
Photo of Caroline Sam - Care Dominance Health services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Care Dominance Health services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Caroline Sam, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My mission as a psychiatric mental health practitioner is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families affected by mental illness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where my patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health. Through a collaborative approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and holistic interventions, I aim to improve the quality of life of my patients and help them achieve their full potential.
My name is Caroline Sam, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My mission as a psychiatric mental health practitioner is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families affected by mental illness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where my patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health. Through a collaborative approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and holistic interventions, I aim to improve the quality of life of my patients and help them achieve their full potential.
(214) 214-4362 View (214) 214-4362
Photo of Dr. Maria Orejarena, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maria Orejarena
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Orejarena’s is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She finished her residency from Yale University and the University of Texas Houston. She has done extensive research on psychiatry during her PhD in Neuropsychopharmacology and a Masters in Neuroscience. She is bilingual in Spanish and English. She incorporates different therapy modalities and evidence-based treatments, tailored to each person’s needs. She enjoys applying her knowledge in neuroscience and pharmacology into her clinical practice and believes combination of medication and psychotherapy yields best treatment outcomes.
Dr. Orejarena’s is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She finished her residency from Yale University and the University of Texas Houston. She has done extensive research on psychiatry during her PhD in Neuropsychopharmacology and a Masters in Neuroscience. She is bilingual in Spanish and English. She incorporates different therapy modalities and evidence-based treatments, tailored to each person’s needs. She enjoys applying her knowledge in neuroscience and pharmacology into her clinical practice and believes combination of medication and psychotherapy yields best treatment outcomes.
(469) 746-3367 View (469) 746-3367

See more therapy options for 75235

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75235

< 10

Psychiatrists in 75235 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
86% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 75235 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75235?

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.