Psychiatrists in 75751

Uthman Njihia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Athens, TX 75751
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.
(903) 964-3186 View (903) 964-3186
Pacificah Nyangau Doctor Of Nursing Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN-RN, PMHNP-B
7 Endorsed
Athens, TX 75751
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.
(832) 957-9499 View (832) 957-9499
healthPiper
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(817) 309-6282 View (817) 309-6282
Lovette Okoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(325) 237-2759 View (325) 237-2759

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Journey 2 Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Serves Area
At Journey 2 Health, we provide compassionate, personalized care for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual and family therapy, trauma-informed care, primary care, EPSDT exams, and treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Through Journey 2 Health Family Services, we also support foster, adoptive, kinship, and reunifying families with coordinated, evidence-based care that promotes healing and long-term wellness.
At Journey 2 Health, we provide compassionate, personalized care for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual and family therapy, trauma-informed care, primary care, EPSDT exams, and treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Through Journey 2 Health Family Services, we also support foster, adoptive, kinship, and reunifying families with coordinated, evidence-based care that promotes healing and long-term wellness.
(901) 582-7974 View (901) 582-7974
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now Accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Acara is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. Visit out website: www.mbspsych.org
Now Accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Acara is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. Visit out website: www.mbspsych.org
(214) 367-5893 View (214) 367-5893
Ramya Seeni - Arête Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Tyler, TX 75703
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!
(682) 703-9952 View (682) 703-9952
Cheryl L Lauderdale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Gun Barrel City, TX 75156
I’m a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than a decade of nursing experience. I’m passionate about giving back to the Cedar Creek Lake community and serving individuals and families across Texas. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, my grandkids, and my puppy.
I’m a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than a decade of nursing experience. I’m passionate about giving back to the Cedar Creek Lake community and serving individuals and families across Texas. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, my grandkids, and my puppy.
(903) 666-5445 View (903) 666-5445
Premier Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Gun Barrel City, TX 75156
Many of the people I work with appear successful on the outside but feel overwhelmed internally. They may be professionals, parents, or graduate students managing demanding lives while struggling with ADHD, anxiety, burnout, or depression. Some are navigating mental health changes related to pregnancy, postpartum, or hormonal transitions. I work with motivated adults who want to better understand what’s happening in their minds and bodies and develop practical strategies to restore focus, balance, and well-being. Many may be experiencing mental exhaustion that can occur in adults with ADHD or other neurodivergent traits.
Many of the people I work with appear successful on the outside but feel overwhelmed internally. They may be professionals, parents, or graduate students managing demanding lives while struggling with ADHD, anxiety, burnout, or depression. Some are navigating mental health changes related to pregnancy, postpartum, or hormonal transitions. I work with motivated adults who want to better understand what’s happening in their minds and bodies and develop practical strategies to restore focus, balance, and well-being. Many may be experiencing mental exhaustion that can occur in adults with ADHD or other neurodivergent traits.
(940) 245-6183 View (940) 245-6183
S. Johari Ledbetter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Canton, TX 75103
As a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), I provide comprehensive, whole-person care for individuals ages 14 and older. I work with clients managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and perinatal mental health challenges. I’m dedicated to creating a welcoming, culturally responsive space where clients from diverse backgrounds feel safe, respected, and empowered. Together, we’ll develop personalized strategies to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
As a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), I provide comprehensive, whole-person care for individuals ages 14 and older. I work with clients managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and perinatal mental health challenges. I’m dedicated to creating a welcoming, culturally responsive space where clients from diverse backgrounds feel safe, respected, and empowered. Together, we’ll develop personalized strategies to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(903) 847-5238 View (903) 847-5238
Emily Dees
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(903) 865-3354 View (903) 865-3354
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Online Only
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX
(956) 983-9426 View (956) 983-9426
Sonia Ike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with doctoral level experience (DNP) who takes great pride in caring for her patients as if they were loved ones. I work diligently to build a relaxed environment so that you can feel at ease discussing your concerns without fear of judgment. With over a decade of experience in healthcare, I found my passion in the virtual setting and have had the opportunity to work with patients for the past three years from all over the country. I believe that being able to see you in an environment where you feel most comfortable is crucial for promoting mental health and wellness.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with doctoral level experience (DNP) who takes great pride in caring for her patients as if they were loved ones. I work diligently to build a relaxed environment so that you can feel at ease discussing your concerns without fear of judgment. With over a decade of experience in healthcare, I found my passion in the virtual setting and have had the opportunity to work with patients for the past three years from all over the country. I believe that being able to see you in an environment where you feel most comfortable is crucial for promoting mental health and wellness.
(469) 599-2902 View (469) 599-2902
Ranie Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(469) 489-4885 View (469) 489-4885
Benard Choi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in private practice, I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep Disorders, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, and various other behavioral issues. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic modalities with personalized care to help my clients achieve optimal well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in private practice, I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep Disorders, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, and various other behavioral issues. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic modalities with personalized care to help my clients achieve optimal well-being.
(214) 833-7613 View (214) 833-7613

Online Psychiatrists

Katherine Day Mitchell
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
I provide individual psychotherapy with or without medication management for adults (ages 18+). I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Mood disorders, Adjustment disorders, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Grief, and Phase of life transitions. We’ll work together to decide if therapy, medication, or a combination is the best treatment plan for you.
I provide individual psychotherapy with or without medication management for adults (ages 18+). I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Mood disorders, Adjustment disorders, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Grief, and Phase of life transitions. We’ll work together to decide if therapy, medication, or a combination is the best treatment plan for you.
(469) 707-8093 View (469) 707-8093
Gwen Shipe
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
I help children, teenagers, and adults who feel like they’ve tried everything—therapy, medications, you name it—but still don’t feel right. Maybe you’re exhausted by side effects, or you suspect something deeper is going on. That’s where functional medicine changes the game. Early in my career, I noticed something frustrating: I’d prescribe medications (sometimes they helped, sometimes they didn’t), but patients weren’t thriving. Then I learned about functional medicine—and everything shifted. My patients really started getting better once I began implementing what I learned.
I help children, teenagers, and adults who feel like they’ve tried everything—therapy, medications, you name it—but still don’t feel right. Maybe you’re exhausted by side effects, or you suspect something deeper is going on. That’s where functional medicine changes the game. Early in my career, I noticed something frustrating: I’d prescribe medications (sometimes they helped, sometimes they didn’t), but patients weren’t thriving. Then I learned about functional medicine—and everything shifted. My patients really started getting better once I began implementing what I learned.
(972) 441-5967 x7 View (972) 441-5967 x7
Dr. Kimberly Arthur-Mensah, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Garland, TX 75040
Accepting NEW Clients, In-Office & Virtual. I’m Dr. Arthur-Mensah, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for supporting children, teens, and adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. For parents seeking support for their child, I provide comprehensive evaluations and collaborative treatment plans tailored to your child’s developmental needs. I partner closely with families and individuals to ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident in every step of care. My clients describe me as warm, compassionate, and empowering.
Accepting NEW Clients, In-Office & Virtual. I’m Dr. Arthur-Mensah, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for supporting children, teens, and adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. For parents seeking support for their child, I provide comprehensive evaluations and collaborative treatment plans tailored to your child’s developmental needs. I partner closely with families and individuals to ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident in every step of care. My clients describe me as warm, compassionate, and empowering.
(972) 449-9438 View (972) 449-9438
Dr. Naomi Nyabuto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
3 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76137
If you are struggling with mental health, feeling overwhelmed and finding it difficult to cope with life, we can walk together the journey toward healing. In our first meeting, we shall discuss your current symptoms, history, and treatment goals. I shall work with you to identify your needs and goals. We shall develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your needs. My priority is to see you feel better and live quality of life.
If you are struggling with mental health, feeling overwhelmed and finding it difficult to cope with life, we can walk together the journey toward healing. In our first meeting, we shall discuss your current symptoms, history, and treatment goals. I shall work with you to identify your needs and goals. We shall develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your needs. My priority is to see you feel better and live quality of life.
(682) 343-6110 x110 View (682) 343-6110 x110
Barbara Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, C-PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Waxahachie, TX 75165
Barbara Miller's office, APN Behavioral Healthcare LLC, is located in Ellis county and offers behavioral healthcare for the child, adolescent, and adult. We provide a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment recommendations, if needed. Various treatment recommendations may include: medication management, assessment tools for various mood disorders, therapy for adults and children, diet therapy, and much more. Our goal is the best care possible for you and your loved ones. We serve all ages, from children to the elderly.
Barbara Miller's office, APN Behavioral Healthcare LLC, is located in Ellis county and offers behavioral healthcare for the child, adolescent, and adult. We provide a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment recommendations, if needed. Various treatment recommendations may include: medication management, assessment tools for various mood disorders, therapy for adults and children, diet therapy, and much more. Our goal is the best care possible for you and your loved ones. We serve all ages, from children to the elderly.
(214) 463-2108 View (214) 463-2108

See more therapy options for 75751

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75751

< 10

Psychiatrists in 75751 who prioritize treating:

100% Eating Disorders
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 75751 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75751?

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.