Psychiatrists in 76102

Photo of Klaus Zebaze, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Klaus Zebaze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Klaus Zebaze has 7 years of expertise in mental health and is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I believe in a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health so I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders with dignity and compassion.
Klaus Zebaze has 7 years of expertise in mental health and is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I believe in a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health so I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders with dignity and compassion.
(817) 631-6793 View (817) 631-6793
Photo of Peter Formusoh - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Peter Formusoh, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He is also certified as a family nurse practitioner. Peter provides expert care to patients at Holistic Health and Psychiatry in Mansfield, Texas. Peter obtained his post-master's certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) from Maryville University in St Louis, Missouri. He received his family nurse practitioner (FNP) certification from South University Austin in Round Rock, Texas.
Peter Formusoh, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He is also certified as a family nurse practitioner. Peter provides expert care to patients at Holistic Health and Psychiatry in Mansfield, Texas. Peter obtained his post-master's certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) from Maryville University in St Louis, Missouri. He received his family nurse practitioner (FNP) certification from South University Austin in Round Rock, Texas.
(956) 253-1490 View (956) 253-1490
Photo of Klaus Zebaze, PMHNP , APRN, MSN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Klaus Zebaze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Klaus Zebaze has 5 years of expertise in mental health and is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I believe in a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health so I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders with dignity and compassion. Working with people of different ages and cultural backgrounds is something klaus enjoys doing. Klaus's mission is to enhance people's mental health and overall quality of life while providing compassionate and nonjudgmental care.
Klaus Zebaze has 5 years of expertise in mental health and is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I believe in a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health so I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders with dignity and compassion. Working with people of different ages and cultural backgrounds is something klaus enjoys doing. Klaus's mission is to enhance people's mental health and overall quality of life while providing compassionate and nonjudgmental care.
(817) 631-1546 View (817) 631-1546
Photo of Jamie Steinert, RN, MSN, FPMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Steinert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FPMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Everyone deserves the ability to enjoy a calm space in their mind. Some of us can't shake sadness, irritability, worry or distractability. Some of us need guidance, and sometimes, medication to achieve that. Depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, or ADHD do not make us any less human.
Everyone deserves the ability to enjoy a calm space in their mind. Some of us can't shake sadness, irritability, worry or distractability. Some of us need guidance, and sometimes, medication to achieve that. Depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, or ADHD do not make us any less human.
(682) 301-4224 View (682) 301-4224
Photo of Tabitha Ross, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tabitha Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76102
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and other mental health challenges find clarity, confidence, and relief. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or feelings of burnout, these struggles can make daily life feel exhausting and uncertain. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and other mental health challenges find clarity, confidence, and relief. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or feelings of burnout, these struggles can make daily life feel exhausting and uncertain. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
(817) 438-3902 View (817) 438-3902
Photo of Jilji M Payikkattu, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jilji M Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
I help kids, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges find clarity, confidence, and relief. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or feelings of burnout, these struggles can make daily life feel exhausting and uncertain. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
I help kids, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges find clarity, confidence, and relief. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or feelings of burnout, these struggles can make daily life feel exhausting and uncertain. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
(817) 803-9350 View (817) 803-9350
Photo of Dr. Zian Omene, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Zian Omene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
(817) 587-8099 View (817) 587-8099
Photo of Dr. Stewart Keller - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(817) 510-1766 View (817) 510-1766
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76102
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.
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Photo of Karen Contreras, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Contreras
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Karen J. Contreras is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Karen allows her clients space to talk and listens to how they feel. She offers reassurance that they can be helped. Karen is patient and empathetic with all her clients. Outside of work, Karen enjoys outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing with her family and enjoys spending time with her kids and grandkids. She likes to travel and enjoys being by the ocean.
Karen J. Contreras is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Karen allows her clients space to talk and listens to how they feel. She offers reassurance that they can be helped. Karen is patient and empathetic with all her clients. Outside of work, Karen enjoys outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing with her family and enjoys spending time with her kids and grandkids. She likes to travel and enjoys being by the ocean.
(817) 631-5698 View (817) 631-5698
Photo of Stewart Keller, DO, Psychiatrist
Stewart Keller
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Born in Florida, but have lived in Texas for 36 years. Have been in private practice, education and inpatient medical director previously. I enjoy working with adults and providing medication management and supportive and/or solution-focused psychotherapy.
Born in Florida, but have lived in Texas for 36 years. Have been in private practice, education and inpatient medical director previously. I enjoy working with adults and providing medication management and supportive and/or solution-focused psychotherapy.
(817) 873-6772 View (817) 873-6772
Photo of Jaishree Raghavan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaishree Raghavan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
(817) 813-1972 View (817) 813-1972
Photo of Emily Cook, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
(469) 228-8317 View (469) 228-8317
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Jackline Auka - Vibrant Mental Wellness (Accepting New Clients)., APR, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vibrant Mental Wellness (Accepting New Clients).
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APR, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Same Day Video appointments available across WA state, OR, TX, AZ, MD, and WY with an experienced Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With more than 10 yrs of experience dedicated service and a passion for Mental Health, I provide holistic Telemedicine consultations tailored to all ages/ Online appointments. Specialized in ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and more, I offer personalized medication management and psychotherapy I truly care and listen to my patients. Get started today and reclaim your focus and peace of mind.
Same Day Video appointments available across WA state, OR, TX, AZ, MD, and WY with an experienced Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With more than 10 yrs of experience dedicated service and a passion for Mental Health, I provide holistic Telemedicine consultations tailored to all ages/ Online appointments. Specialized in ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and more, I offer personalized medication management and psychotherapy I truly care and listen to my patients. Get started today and reclaim your focus and peace of mind.
(520) 335-0998 View (520) 335-0998
Christopher Chee
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my practice. I am a psychiatrist with dual board certifications in General Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. My training at UT Southwestern and UC San Francisco is diverse, patient-centered, and evidence-based. These experiences have given me an understanding and appreciation of people from all walks of life.
Welcome to my practice. I am a psychiatrist with dual board certifications in General Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. My training at UT Southwestern and UC San Francisco is diverse, patient-centered, and evidence-based. These experiences have given me an understanding and appreciation of people from all walks of life.
(817) 241-3579 View (817) 241-3579
Photo of Lydia Olutoyin Oluwaleye - Excellent Touch Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Excellent Touch Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now accepting new patients within a week appointments available; weekdays and on weekends. Are you struggling with loneliness, not your usual self, or feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or feeling stuck? You are not alone, we are here to help at Excellent Touch psychiatry, to listen, and help you become the best version of yourself, by providing client-centered, empathetic, trauma-informed, and competent quality care delivered through telehealth. We specialized in treating anyone with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and any other mental issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, and social life.
Now accepting new patients within a week appointments available; weekdays and on weekends. Are you struggling with loneliness, not your usual self, or feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or feeling stuck? You are not alone, we are here to help at Excellent Touch psychiatry, to listen, and help you become the best version of yourself, by providing client-centered, empathetic, trauma-informed, and competent quality care delivered through telehealth. We specialized in treating anyone with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and any other mental issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, and social life.
(817) 904-9434 View (817) 904-9434
Photo of Martine Senatus - VIP Integrative Health Care , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VIP Integrative Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! New patients are welcome! Same day/Next day appointments available! Call us for Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, Prescriptions, and Addiction. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! New patients are welcome! Same day/Next day appointments available! Call us for Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, Prescriptions, and Addiction. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health challenges.
(214) 730-6126 View (214) 730-6126
Photo of Lakesha Sawyer-Strickland Pmhnp-Bc - Good Inner-G LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Good Inner-G LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, I am committed to promoting mental wellness and enhancing the quality of life for clients.
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, I am committed to promoting mental wellness and enhancing the quality of life for clients.
(469) 351-1833 View (469) 351-1833
Photo of Uche Uka, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uche Uka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Uche Uka is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with ten years of work experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Mary Hardin, Baylor, a Master of Science in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of South Alabama. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to find the most suitable treatment model based on their diagnoses and mental health needs. These include pharmacological interventions where we discuss treatment goals and guide patient to take approved medications to help them meet their therapeutic goal
Dr. Uche Uka is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with ten years of work experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Mary Hardin, Baylor, a Master of Science in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of South Alabama. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to find the most suitable treatment model based on their diagnoses and mental health needs. These include pharmacological interventions where we discuss treatment goals and guide patient to take approved medications to help them meet their therapeutic goal
(972) 236-7810 View (972) 236-7810
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 76102

20+

Average cost per session

$169

Psychiatrists in 76102 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
86% Trauma and PTSD
81% Medication Management
76% Bipolar Disorder
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% ADHD

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 76102 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 76102?

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.