Psychiatrists in 76129

MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.

Joseph Micci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Joseph Micci is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University where he then worked at John Peter Smith Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry for 6 years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Joe works with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing a calm and supportive environment.
Joseph Micci is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University where he then worked at John Peter Smith Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry for 6 years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Joe works with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing a calm and supportive environment.

I am Chigane Abraham, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 9 years of experience managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, sleep, insomnia, and more. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults.
I am Chigane Abraham, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 9 years of experience managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, sleep, insomnia, and more. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults.
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Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.

Lilian Melvis O Everts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75137
Lilian Everts is a board-certified PMHNP with experience in treating mental disorders in all ages. Mental illness knows no boundaries, age, race, gender, social and economic status. Everyone can be a victim. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Are you noticing any changes in your mental health? Are you having feelings of intense fear, restlessness, panic, loss of control, inability to focus, increase sadness, hopelessness, mood swings, addiction, suicidal thoughts, hearing or seeing things that are not present.
Lilian Everts is a board-certified PMHNP with experience in treating mental disorders in all ages. Mental illness knows no boundaries, age, race, gender, social and economic status. Everyone can be a victim. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Are you noticing any changes in your mental health? Are you having feelings of intense fear, restlessness, panic, loss of control, inability to focus, increase sadness, hopelessness, mood swings, addiction, suicidal thoughts, hearing or seeing things that are not present.

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide a holistic approach to life long mental health and wellness. This comprehensive approach includes both traditional and alternative methods. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to all patients that focus on treating the whole self by utilizing the latest pharmaceutical remedies as well as lifestyle enrichment through education and realistic goal setting. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of multiple disorders and mental health conditions. It is a humbling privilege to accompany my patients on their journey to improved living.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide a holistic approach to life long mental health and wellness. This comprehensive approach includes both traditional and alternative methods. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to all patients that focus on treating the whole self by utilizing the latest pharmaceutical remedies as well as lifestyle enrichment through education and realistic goal setting. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of multiple disorders and mental health conditions. It is a humbling privilege to accompany my patients on their journey to improved living.

Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc our vision is to treat patients with compassion and respect while providing an individualized treatment plans that meets patient’s outcome. We understand the challenges of daily life event and promote the concept of balanced mindset for patients to see actual results of treatment recommendations. Our team consist of a Psychiatrist, Texas Board and Arizona Board of Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with ANCC certification. We provide appointments and psychiatry services in person or via secured and HIPPA compliant video conference platform.
At Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc our vision is to treat patients with compassion and respect while providing an individualized treatment plans that meets patient’s outcome. We understand the challenges of daily life event and promote the concept of balanced mindset for patients to see actual results of treatment recommendations. Our team consist of a Psychiatrist, Texas Board and Arizona Board of Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with ANCC certification. We provide appointments and psychiatry services in person or via secured and HIPPA compliant video conference platform.

I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with extensive clinical training and experience across diverse areas of psychiatry. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults, offering compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. My practice emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on overall well-being and prescribing medications only when necessary.
My goal is to empower clients by providing education, support, insight, and constructive feedback to help them navigate and overcome life’s challenges effectively, through collaboration and individualized care.
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with extensive clinical training and experience across diverse areas of psychiatry. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults, offering compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. My practice emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on overall well-being and prescribing medications only when necessary.
My goal is to empower clients by providing education, support, insight, and constructive feedback to help them navigate and overcome life’s challenges effectively, through collaboration and individualized care.

Hello, I'm Dr. Tran. Do you feel like your psychiatric provider isn't listening and treating you like another check on their checklist? Do you struggle with anxiety and mood that have been difficult to manage on your own or even with therapy? I'd like to help you manage your symptoms but also to listen to your personal story to best come up with a treatment plan for you. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing in the Austin area for over 8 years.
Hello, I'm Dr. Tran. Do you feel like your psychiatric provider isn't listening and treating you like another check on their checklist? Do you struggle with anxiety and mood that have been difficult to manage on your own or even with therapy? I'd like to help you manage your symptoms but also to listen to your personal story to best come up with a treatment plan for you. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing in the Austin area for over 8 years.

Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.

Sylvia Otieno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sylvia provides a safe space coupled with compassionate and non-judgmental mental health care. Her approach is that not one size fits all, and treatment plans are individualized in relationship to everyone's unique needs. Sylvia has experience in treating most mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and sleep disorders.
Sylvia Otieno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sylvia provides a safe space coupled with compassionate and non-judgmental mental health care. Her approach is that not one size fits all, and treatment plans are individualized in relationship to everyone's unique needs. Sylvia has experience in treating most mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and sleep disorders.

A compassionate, dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner highly regarded for 5+ years of success providing advanced, comprehensive care with a high degree of positive outcome. Are you tired of second-guessing yourself, feeling disorganized, or powerless? Are you ready to experience healthier relationships with others with a higher quality and balanced life? I specialize in helping people stay on track, clarify their goals, and co-create the life they want in a safe and healthy environment. We treat Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating Disorders. Virtual Appointments Only (Telehealth)
A compassionate, dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner highly regarded for 5+ years of success providing advanced, comprehensive care with a high degree of positive outcome. Are you tired of second-guessing yourself, feeling disorganized, or powerless? Are you ready to experience healthier relationships with others with a higher quality and balanced life? I specialize in helping people stay on track, clarify their goals, and co-create the life they want in a safe and healthy environment. We treat Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating Disorders. Virtual Appointments Only (Telehealth)

Imperial Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients. You deserve a life that makes you happy. To wake up in the morning, and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. I love helping regardless of gender, race, or sexuality. For people with opioid addiction, I prescribe Buprenorphine.
Accepting New Patients. You deserve a life that makes you happy. To wake up in the morning, and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. I love helping regardless of gender, race, or sexuality. For people with opioid addiction, I prescribe Buprenorphine.

LinMed Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.

Hello! I am a licensed and certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the State of Texas. I have been practicing for over 9 years and I love what I do. I love working with individuals that have reached a place that they are ready to make a change and address their mental health concerns. Every individual will need support and guidance at some point in their life, you are not alone in this. I will work as hard as you to build your motivation and give you the tools needed to make the changes you desire. This means more than just focusing on medications, but also working on cognitive, and behavioral changes.
Hello! I am a licensed and certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the State of Texas. I have been practicing for over 9 years and I love what I do. I love working with individuals that have reached a place that they are ready to make a change and address their mental health concerns. Every individual will need support and guidance at some point in their life, you are not alone in this. I will work as hard as you to build your motivation and give you the tools needed to make the changes you desire. This means more than just focusing on medications, but also working on cognitive, and behavioral changes.

Reassurance Mental Health,LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach is to closely work with patients and find ways to improve their mental health.My first goal is to listen to my patients . My second goal is to find the best treatments possible for my patients. My ultimate outcome is to improve my clients mental health.
My approach is to closely work with patients and find ways to improve their mental health.My first goal is to listen to my patients . My second goal is to find the best treatments possible for my patients. My ultimate outcome is to improve my clients mental health.

I am a dedicated psychiatrist who enjoys working with adults of all ages. With my unique background in internal medicine, as well as extensive training in the treatment of older adults and eating disorders, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. I take a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of mind and body, allowing me to provide thoughtful and comprehensive treatment recommendations. I empower patients to actively participate in their treatment journey. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or a loved one, I am here to help you to navigate your mental health journey with experience and compassion.
I am a dedicated psychiatrist who enjoys working with adults of all ages. With my unique background in internal medicine, as well as extensive training in the treatment of older adults and eating disorders, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. I take a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of mind and body, allowing me to provide thoughtful and comprehensive treatment recommendations. I empower patients to actively participate in their treatment journey. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or a loved one, I am here to help you to navigate your mental health journey with experience and compassion.

Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.

After 15 years in private practice, our established office knows the value of listening. I take 75 minutes to do me evaluations; they are done entirely by me; there is no symptom paperwork to fill-out beforehand nor do we have an MA or nurse take your history. You will have the entire time to be with me so I ca hear your story, interview you about your symptoms, and discuss a variety of medication and therapy treatment options. You will leave with a plan, and we will do whatever it takes to get your symptoms into remission.
After 15 years in private practice, our established office knows the value of listening. I take 75 minutes to do me evaluations; they are done entirely by me; there is no symptom paperwork to fill-out beforehand nor do we have an MA or nurse take your history. You will have the entire time to be with me so I ca hear your story, interview you about your symptoms, and discuss a variety of medication and therapy treatment options. You will leave with a plan, and we will do whatever it takes to get your symptoms into remission.

As a psychiatrist with over 9 years of experience, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.
As a psychiatrist with over 9 years of experience, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 76129
< 10
Psychiatrists in 76129 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Stress |
67% | Addiction |
67% | Life Coaching |
67% | Grief |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 76129 see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 76129?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.