Psychiatrists in 75703
At East Texas Psychiatry and Counseling, I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. I provide personalized psychiatric care through thorough evaluations, careful medication management, and supportive, evidence-based therapy. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel truly heard, understood, and empowered to heal. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or major life changes, I am here to walk beside you. Together, we will build a treatment plan that fits your unique needs and supports you in moving toward a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life.
At East Texas Psychiatry and Counseling, I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. I provide personalized psychiatric care through thorough evaluations, careful medication management, and supportive, evidence-based therapy. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel truly heard, understood, and empowered to heal. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or major life changes, I am here to walk beside you. Together, we will build a treatment plan that fits your unique needs and supports you in moving toward a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life.
Getting to Know Amy Nunn
Amy Nunn, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with 25 years of nursing experience, including more than 20 years caring for women and families in labor and delivery.
Amy takes a down-to-earth, whole-person approach to mental health. She believes our well-being is shaped by much more than a
Getting to Know Amy Nunn
Amy Nunn, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with 25 years of nursing experience, including more than 20 years caring for women and families in labor and delivery.
Amy takes a down-to-earth, whole-person approach to mental health. She believes our well-being is shaped by much more than a
I understand that seeking help can feel like a big step, and I want to make this process as comfortable and supportive as possible for you. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing a mental health condition, I’m here to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan that works for your unique needs.
I understand that seeking help can feel like a big step, and I want to make this process as comfortable and supportive as possible for you. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing a mental health condition, I’m here to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan that works for your unique needs.
Scholastica Nweke is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry as both a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner. She has experience working with adolescents and adults in hospitals and outpatient mental health clinics. She specializes in helping clients with anxiety, dementia, psychosis, mood swings, depression and others listed below. Her goal is to help patients reach stabilization. She respects their opinion, creating a safe environment, and actively listening to their needs, belief and values. She provides support and empowerment.
Scholastica Nweke is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry as both a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner. She has experience working with adolescents and adults in hospitals and outpatient mental health clinics. She specializes in helping clients with anxiety, dementia, psychosis, mood swings, depression and others listed below. Her goal is to help patients reach stabilization. She respects their opinion, creating a safe environment, and actively listening to their needs, belief and values. She provides support and empowerment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Seeing patients in-person in Bullard, TX. I provide conservative medication management with counseling from a Christian worldview. Over 10+ yrs experience in public service (911 dispatcher) and healthcare (ICU nurse). Are you struggling with a depressed mood, anxiety, insomnia, or nightmares? Has your therapist recommended medication? Are you worried about side effects or being on medications forever? I can help you answer these questions. Call us at (903) 354-7188.
Seeing patients in-person in Bullard, TX. I provide conservative medication management with counseling from a Christian worldview. Over 10+ yrs experience in public service (911 dispatcher) and healthcare (ICU nurse). Are you struggling with a depressed mood, anxiety, insomnia, or nightmares? Has your therapist recommended medication? Are you worried about side effects or being on medications forever? I can help you answer these questions. Call us at (903) 354-7188.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate, evidence-based care across the lifespan. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, and other mental health challenges. My approach is warm, patient-centered, and collaborative. I take time to listen, build trust, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered as you move toward greater stability, healing, and well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate, evidence-based care across the lifespan. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, and other mental health challenges. My approach is warm, patient-centered, and collaborative. I take time to listen, build trust, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered as you move toward greater stability, healing, and well-being.
As an immigrant & a trauma survivor, I offer culturally competent care that integrates knowledge & education from the East with research-based training from the West. I understand cultural barriers in mental health & will help navigate between native culture & your cultural adaptation journey. I resonate with "Addiction is a disease, NOT a moral issue" & offer psychedelic harm reduction using therapy, meds, supplements & lifestyle changes. If you're someone with failed med trials, have non-traditional relationships, we WILL find a way to improvise while you're embroiled in your adversities. Growing up close to a patient, I get it!
As an immigrant & a trauma survivor, I offer culturally competent care that integrates knowledge & education from the East with research-based training from the West. I understand cultural barriers in mental health & will help navigate between native culture & your cultural adaptation journey. I resonate with "Addiction is a disease, NOT a moral issue" & offer psychedelic harm reduction using therapy, meds, supplements & lifestyle changes. If you're someone with failed med trials, have non-traditional relationships, we WILL find a way to improvise while you're embroiled in your adversities. Growing up close to a patient, I get it!
I work with executives, entrepreneurs and leaders who are struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. All individuals are welcome. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with executives, entrepreneurs and leaders who are struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. All individuals are welcome. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
Is your child struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or behavioral challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, burnout, or life changes? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with children (ages 6-11), adolescents (12+), and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that helps you or your child feel more confident, supported, and in control.
Is your child struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or behavioral challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, burnout, or life changes? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with children (ages 6-11), adolescents (12+), and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that helps you or your child feel more confident, supported, and in control.
My ideal clients are children, teens, and adults seeking a personalized approach to ADHD, anxiety, and mood concerns. Many come to me feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or frustrated by rushed appointments. I provide comprehensive evaluations, thoughtful treatment planning, and individualized care that looks beyond symptoms. Together, we develop practical strategies and, when appropriate, medication plans to improve focus, emotional well-being, confidence, and overall quality of life.
My ideal clients are children, teens, and adults seeking a personalized approach to ADHD, anxiety, and mood concerns. Many come to me feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or frustrated by rushed appointments. I provide comprehensive evaluations, thoughtful treatment planning, and individualized care that looks beyond symptoms. Together, we develop practical strategies and, when appropriate, medication plans to improve focus, emotional well-being, confidence, and overall quality of life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental health, focusing on creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can feel heard and understood. My practice emphasizes evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique needs, with a special focus on managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental health, focusing on creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can feel heard and understood. My practice emphasizes evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique needs, with a special focus on managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Hello! I have been a nurse practitioner since 2016 and I am board certified in both family and psychiatry. I have long had a passion for serving those with mental illness and it is my joy to help clients reach their full potential. I look at the body as a whole and know that each individual has unique needs, which means they each require a specific combination of treatments to help them find wellness. I treat a range of mental health conditions and tailor each treatment plan according to your needs.
Hello! I have been a nurse practitioner since 2016 and I am board certified in both family and psychiatry. I have long had a passion for serving those with mental illness and it is my joy to help clients reach their full potential. I look at the body as a whole and know that each individual has unique needs, which means they each require a specific combination of treatments to help them find wellness. I treat a range of mental health conditions and tailor each treatment plan according to your needs.
Domikah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient’s unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington — where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Domikah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient’s unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington — where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Pacificah Nyangau Doctor Of Nursing Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN-RN, PMHNP-B
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are accepting new patients, and yes, we will see you within 24 to 72 hours. Book your appointment online today! I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. For the last 13 years, I have worked various mental health settings and have witnessed the profound impacts of mental health treatment.
We are accepting new patients, and yes, we will see you within 24 to 72 hours. Book your appointment online today! I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. For the last 13 years, I have worked various mental health settings and have witnessed the profound impacts of mental health treatment.
Hi, I’m Michelle Costlow, PMHNP. I bring nearly 15 years of nursing experience across a variety of clinical settings, along with a deep commitment to caring for the individuals and communities I serve. My approach is grounded in compassion, empathy, and truly listening to your story.
I’m also proud to have served in the United States Air Force, an experience that shaped my values, resilience, and dedication to service. I bring both life experience and clinical expertise into every interaction, with a genuine passion for supporting your mental health and overall well-being. I’m honored to be part of your care.
Hi, I’m Michelle Costlow, PMHNP. I bring nearly 15 years of nursing experience across a variety of clinical settings, along with a deep commitment to caring for the individuals and communities I serve. My approach is grounded in compassion, empathy, and truly listening to your story.
I’m also proud to have served in the United States Air Force, an experience that shaped my values, resilience, and dedication to service. I bring both life experience and clinical expertise into every interaction, with a genuine passion for supporting your mental health and overall well-being. I’m honored to be part of your care.
Resolute - Addiction and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you dealing with crippling anxiety or depression? Struggling with addiction issues? Our team focuses on the total recovery of those who are struggling with addiction, co-occurring disorders, or mental health disorders. We love clients who are committed to recreating their lives by following simple principles. Those who have the willingness to make the initial call can apply that willingness to completely changing their lives. Don't believe us? There are thousands of us out there that have completely broken the chains of addiction and mental health disorders and have found a life of purpose, positivity, and joy.
Are you dealing with crippling anxiety or depression? Struggling with addiction issues? Our team focuses on the total recovery of those who are struggling with addiction, co-occurring disorders, or mental health disorders. We love clients who are committed to recreating their lives by following simple principles. Those who have the willingness to make the initial call can apply that willingness to completely changing their lives. Don't believe us? There are thousands of us out there that have completely broken the chains of addiction and mental health disorders and have found a life of purpose, positivity, and joy.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
I care for individuals across East Texas who are struggling. Whether you’re dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, opioid addiction, or just overwhelmed, you deserve care that respects who you are. I treat people with dignity first. No judgment. No shame. Just honest, compassionate support. My approach is calm, practical, & focused on helping you feel like yourself again. For those needing Suboxone treatment for opioid use, I provide safe, structured care to support recovery and stability. For others, we work through focus, mood, stress, and life transitions in a way that feels manageable and real—not overwhelming.
I care for individuals across East Texas who are struggling. Whether you’re dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, opioid addiction, or just overwhelmed, you deserve care that respects who you are. I treat people with dignity first. No judgment. No shame. Just honest, compassionate support. My approach is calm, practical, & focused on helping you feel like yourself again. For those needing Suboxone treatment for opioid use, I provide safe, structured care to support recovery and stability. For others, we work through focus, mood, stress, and life transitions in a way that feels manageable and real—not overwhelming.
See more therapy options for 75703
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 75703
10+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in 75703 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 92% | Depression |
| 92% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 75% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
| 58% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 58% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 82% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 75703 see their clients
| 83% | In Person and Online | |
| 17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 67% | Female | |
| 33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 75703?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


