Psychiatrists in 75835

Photo of Alice Jamen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MPH
Alice Jamen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.
Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.
(832) 345-6334 View (832) 345-6334

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lydia Kimeli-Pope, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lydia Kimeli-Pope
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you’re a woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted — or a parent worried about your teen’s mood, focus, or behavior — you’re not alone. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing virtual medication management with brief supportive therapy for women and adolescents across Texas and New Mexico. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders, with a thoughtful, practical approach that focuses on the full picture — not just a diagnosis or a prescription. My goal is to help you feel more stable, informed, and supported without feeling rushed or overmedicated.
If you’re a woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted — or a parent worried about your teen’s mood, focus, or behavior — you’re not alone. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing virtual medication management with brief supportive therapy for women and adolescents across Texas and New Mexico. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders, with a thoughtful, practical approach that focuses on the full picture — not just a diagnosis or a prescription. My goal is to help you feel more stable, informed, and supported without feeling rushed or overmedicated.
(830) 283-4754 View (830) 283-4754
Photo of Travis Wacha - Wacha's Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wacha's Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Palestine, TX 75801
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.
(903) 500-7715 View (903) 500-7715
Photo of Dr. Olufunke Mercygrace Jinadu - Mercy Jinadu @ Mercygrace Mental Wellness,PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Mercy Jinadu @ Mercygrace Mental Wellness,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Palestine, TX 75801
Hello, I'm Dr. Mercy. I am a doctorally prepared Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 12 years extensive psychiatric experience in different settings. Are you or your loved one dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and Insomnia? Waiting for months to get the right treatment is over because Mercygrace Mental wellness is the right place for you. We provide diagnostic services, medication management, and psychotherapy to individuals ages 13 years and above via Telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. In office appointmen at our Frisco and Arlingto Texas locations is by appointment only.
Hello, I'm Dr. Mercy. I am a doctorally prepared Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 12 years extensive psychiatric experience in different settings. Are you or your loved one dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and Insomnia? Waiting for months to get the right treatment is over because Mercygrace Mental wellness is the right place for you. We provide diagnostic services, medication management, and psychotherapy to individuals ages 13 years and above via Telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. In office appointmen at our Frisco and Arlingto Texas locations is by appointment only.
(903) 287-7998 View (903) 287-7998
Photo of Dr. Oluwatobi Adeleke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Dr. Oluwatobi Adeleke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting new patients across AZ, TX,NM &VT. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, sleep difficulties, or lingering effects of trauma, you’re not alone. Challenges with focus, motivation, emotional balance, or feeling constantly on edge can make daily life overwhelming—but help is available. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disorders, and ADHD. I take an individualized, collaborative approach to care, tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all model.
Now accepting new patients across AZ, TX,NM &VT. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, sleep difficulties, or lingering effects of trauma, you’re not alone. Challenges with focus, motivation, emotional balance, or feeling constantly on edge can make daily life overwhelming—but help is available. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disorders, and ADHD. I take an individualized, collaborative approach to care, tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all model.
(505) 576-7162 View (505) 576-7162

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Theresa Hicks, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Theresa Hicks
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Spring, TX 77382
At The Care Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe and comfortable environment. From Psychiatric illnesses to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At The Care Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe and comfortable environment. From Psychiatric illnesses to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(682) 428-4838 View (682) 428-4838
Photo of Whitney Wray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Whitney Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
The Woodlands, TX 77380
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, such as anxiety, depression, inattention, mood changes, or life transitions. They want to feel more in control of their thoughts, emotions, and daily routines. Many are looking for both clarity and confidence in their decisions, and they value a collaborative, respectful approach to treatment. Taking new clients within 24 hours.
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, such as anxiety, depression, inattention, mood changes, or life transitions. They want to feel more in control of their thoughts, emotions, and daily routines. Many are looking for both clarity and confidence in their decisions, and they value a collaborative, respectful approach to treatment. Taking new clients within 24 hours.
(936) 301-3696 View (936) 301-3696
Photo of Dr. Jasmine Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Dr. Jasmine Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
4 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77338
As a passionate and thorough provider, I specialize in helping individuals who are navigating challenges with depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder and are seeking a compassionate and rigorous approach to managing their mental health. My ideal clients desire a collaborative partnership to explore therapy and/or medication as tools to achieve stability and wellness. They may be struggling with overwhelming emotions, difficulties in daily functioning, or a longing to regain control over their mental health. Their goals often include improving their mood, reducing anxiety, stabilizing their emotional fluctuations
As a passionate and thorough provider, I specialize in helping individuals who are navigating challenges with depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder and are seeking a compassionate and rigorous approach to managing their mental health. My ideal clients desire a collaborative partnership to explore therapy and/or medication as tools to achieve stability and wellness. They may be struggling with overwhelming emotions, difficulties in daily functioning, or a longing to regain control over their mental health. Their goals often include improving their mood, reducing anxiety, stabilizing their emotional fluctuations
(346) 523-4022 View (346) 523-4022
Photo of Dr. Harbir Sekhon, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Harbir Sekhon
Psychiatrist, MD
Houston, TX 77070
Dr. Harbir Sekhon is a double board-certified psychiatrist in adult and child psychiatry. Trained at the Medical College of Wisconsin and USF Morsani College of Medicine, Dr. Sekhon holds Lifetime Certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. With over 35 years of clinical experience in Florida and Texas, he treats patients of all ages for a wide range of conditions, including mood and anxiety disorders, sleep issues, addictions (internet, gambling, substances), ADHD, and dementia.
Dr. Harbir Sekhon is a double board-certified psychiatrist in adult and child psychiatry. Trained at the Medical College of Wisconsin and USF Morsani College of Medicine, Dr. Sekhon holds Lifetime Certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. With over 35 years of clinical experience in Florida and Texas, he treats patients of all ages for a wide range of conditions, including mood and anxiety disorders, sleep issues, addictions (internet, gambling, substances), ADHD, and dementia.
(833) 777-9247 View (833) 777-9247
Photo of Peter Johnson - LifeSpring Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeSpring Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Do you long for life transformation, while feeling understood and supported on your journey toward freedom, peace, and joy? Do you hope to find the root causes of your symptoms, difficulties, or conflicts for true healing, wellness, and restoration? Do you desire a collaborative team approach from a group of like-minded clinicians with compassion, integrity, and excellence?
Do you long for life transformation, while feeling understood and supported on your journey toward freedom, peace, and joy? Do you hope to find the root causes of your symptoms, difficulties, or conflicts for true healing, wellness, and restoration? Do you desire a collaborative team approach from a group of like-minded clinicians with compassion, integrity, and excellence?
(281) 528-1523 View (281) 528-1523
Photo of Debra Wagner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Debra Wagner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77433
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric care in a warm and caring environment. I see children ages 6 and above, as well as adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer psychiatric assessments, medication management, holistic treatment plans, and supportive psychotherapy for a full range of mental conditions. Medication can be a great tool to help you work towards your goals and medication choice will differ depending on each situation. During our visit, we will explore what is needed for you to feel better. Together we will come up with a treatment plan that addresses the mental and physical.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric care in a warm and caring environment. I see children ages 6 and above, as well as adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer psychiatric assessments, medication management, holistic treatment plans, and supportive psychotherapy for a full range of mental conditions. Medication can be a great tool to help you work towards your goals and medication choice will differ depending on each situation. During our visit, we will explore what is needed for you to feel better. Together we will come up with a treatment plan that addresses the mental and physical.
(832) 965-0886 View (832) 965-0886
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
College Station, TX 77840
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.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryan, TX 77802
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(915) 221-1656 View (915) 221-1656
Photo of Catherine Wachira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catherine Wachira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
The Woodlands, TX 77380
It has always brought me great joy and fulfillment to be part of my patient’s journey, from seeking care to getting healed, through the best care I have been able to offer at their most vulnerable time of need. Having had firsthand experience with my fellow military colleagues, and my experience in clinical practice, the severity of mental health is not to be taken lightly.
It has always brought me great joy and fulfillment to be part of my patient’s journey, from seeking care to getting healed, through the best care I have been able to offer at their most vulnerable time of need. Having had firsthand experience with my fellow military colleagues, and my experience in clinical practice, the severity of mental health is not to be taken lightly.
(832) 981-7174 View (832) 981-7174
Photo of Andrea Ancer Leal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LMSW
Andrea Ancer Leal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LMSW
The Woodlands, TX 77380
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, dealing with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, inattention or focus, and transitions in life. They seek support in balancing responsibilities, managing stress, or gaining confidence in their decisions. I offer a unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic expertise, creating a non-judgmental space to explore their needs. Through a collaborative approach, I provide practical strategies, medication management and therapy to foster self-awareness, resilience, and lasting personal growth.
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, dealing with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, inattention or focus, and transitions in life. They seek support in balancing responsibilities, managing stress, or gaining confidence in their decisions. I offer a unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic expertise, creating a non-judgmental space to explore their needs. Through a collaborative approach, I provide practical strategies, medication management and therapy to foster self-awareness, resilience, and lasting personal growth.
(936) 508-2618 View (936) 508-2618
Photo of Joanna Afolabi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Joanna Afolabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
7 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77067
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, anxious, distracted, or emotionally drained but is ready for change. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood instability, or burnout. On the outside they may appear fine, but internally they feel stuck or exhausted. They want clarity about what is going on and a treatment plan that truly works. They are looking for a provider who listens, explains, and partners with them. Their goal is to feel stable, focused, confident, and able to function at their best not just survive but thrive.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, anxious, distracted, or emotionally drained but is ready for change. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood instability, or burnout. On the outside they may appear fine, but internally they feel stuck or exhausted. They want clarity about what is going on and a treatment plan that truly works. They are looking for a provider who listens, explains, and partners with them. Their goal is to feel stable, focused, confident, and able to function at their best not just survive but thrive.
(346) 601-2084 View (346) 601-2084
Photo of Maria Wallace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Maria Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77433
Are sleepless nights, constant worry, or past trauma stealing your peace? I help adults — Especially veterans, first responders, and postpartum moms — reclaim calm, confidence, and purpose. With over 18 years of experience, Dr. Wallace, a board certified PMHNP, offers both medication-management and therapy, creating a safe, trauma-informed space where your values, culture, and faith are honored. She takes a caring, collaborative approach to ensure every patient feels heard, supported, and empowered in their treatment journey.
Are sleepless nights, constant worry, or past trauma stealing your peace? I help adults — Especially veterans, first responders, and postpartum moms — reclaim calm, confidence, and purpose. With over 18 years of experience, Dr. Wallace, a board certified PMHNP, offers both medication-management and therapy, creating a safe, trauma-informed space where your values, culture, and faith are honored. She takes a caring, collaborative approach to ensure every patient feels heard, supported, and empowered in their treatment journey.
(210) 985-9129 View (210) 985-9129
Photo of Bridget Shu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Bridget Shu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77433
Accepting new patients. Appointments are available within 24–48 hours. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, panic attacks, or depression? You're not alone. If you're experiencing constant worry, sadness, fatigue, or loss of interest, we’re here to help. Get a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation within 24–48 hours. You’ll receive individualized care tailored to your needs, goals, and lifestyle—no one-size-fits-all plans here.
Accepting new patients. Appointments are available within 24–48 hours. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, panic attacks, or depression? You're not alone. If you're experiencing constant worry, sadness, fatigue, or loss of interest, we’re here to help. Get a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation within 24–48 hours. You’ll receive individualized care tailored to your needs, goals, and lifestyle—no one-size-fits-all plans here.
(346) 275-3799 View (346) 275-3799
Photo of Shea T. Sawyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shea T. Sawyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
5 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77305
Hi, I’m Shea, a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner and Christian with over 10 years of experience in mental wellness. I diagnose and treat conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar, and addiction using a holistic approach with medication, lifestyle changes, or therapy. Whether you want medication, a second opinion, or non-medication options, I’ll create a plan you’re comfortable with. Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs, explore diagnoses, and review treatments. You’ll have time to ask questions and make informed choices about your care.
Hi, I’m Shea, a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner and Christian with over 10 years of experience in mental wellness. I diagnose and treat conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar, and addiction using a holistic approach with medication, lifestyle changes, or therapy. Whether you want medication, a second opinion, or non-medication options, I’ll create a plan you’re comfortable with. Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs, explore diagnoses, and review treatments. You’ll have time to ask questions and make informed choices about your care.
(281) 801-8090 View (281) 801-8090
Photo of Whitney Wray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Whitney Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
The Woodlands, TX 77380
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, such as anxiety, depression, inattention, mood changes, or life transitions. They want to feel more in control of their thoughts, emotions, and daily routines. Many are looking for both clarity and confidence in their decisions, and they value a collaborative, respectful approach to treatment. Taking new clients within 24 hours.
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, such as anxiety, depression, inattention, mood changes, or life transitions. They want to feel more in control of their thoughts, emotions, and daily routines. Many are looking for both clarity and confidence in their decisions, and they value a collaborative, respectful approach to treatment. Taking new clients within 24 hours.
(936) 227-4672 View (936) 227-4672

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75835

< 10

Psychiatrists in 75835 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Personality Disorders
100% Dissociative Disorders (DID)
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 75835 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75835?

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.