Psychiatrists in 76205

Whole Life Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.

Dr. Amanda Kennedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new adult patients in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Accepting new adult patients in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.

Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.
Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.

Take charge of your health. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or ADHD, we can help you. See an actual physician, not a random "provider" assigned to you with an online-only company. You deserve a qualified physician to oversee your treatment. Intentional Life Psychiatry is a medical practice and you are the priority.
Take charge of your health. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or ADHD, we can help you. See an actual physician, not a random "provider" assigned to you with an online-only company. You deserve a qualified physician to oversee your treatment. Intentional Life Psychiatry is a medical practice and you are the priority.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.

Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.

Ugonna R Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.

Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.

I am an experienced physician specializing in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. With a strong background in Internal Medicine, I integrate holistic approaches into my practice, focusing on an Integrative Psychiatry and Medical model. I strive to provide well-rounded care by incorporating various therapeutic modalities and fostering a heart-centered, empathetic approach to health and healing.
I am an experienced physician specializing in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. With a strong background in Internal Medicine, I integrate holistic approaches into my practice, focusing on an Integrative Psychiatry and Medical model. I strive to provide well-rounded care by incorporating various therapeutic modalities and fostering a heart-centered, empathetic approach to health and healing.

Ifeoma Irokwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Ogomegbunam Ogbonna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified mental health practitioner with six years of experience, I am deeply passionate about helping individuals on their mental health journeys. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and strengths. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to supporting you with empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to your healing.
I prioritize creating a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel safe discussing their concerns, whether they relate to physical or mental health. I believe in treating the whole person rather than just symptoms.
As a board-certified mental health practitioner with six years of experience, I am deeply passionate about helping individuals on their mental health journeys. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and strengths. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to supporting you with empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to your healing.
I prioritize creating a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel safe discussing their concerns, whether they relate to physical or mental health. I believe in treating the whole person rather than just symptoms.

Lisa Ekeanyanwu, MD is a board eligible Psychiatrist. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Stanford. She has experience providing patients with compassionate psychiatric care. Dr. Ekeanyanwu's practice centers on pharmacotherapy. She offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy, to treat several types of psychiatric conditions. Occasionally she may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Lisa Ekeanyanwu, MD is a board eligible Psychiatrist. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Stanford. She has experience providing patients with compassionate psychiatric care. Dr. Ekeanyanwu's practice centers on pharmacotherapy. She offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy, to treat several types of psychiatric conditions. Occasionally she may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.

Dallas Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75220
Maria Camacho is a caring and devoted healthcare provider based in Texas. With extensive experience as a psychiatric provider, I am deeply committed to addressing my patients' needs with both skill and empathy. Bilingual in Spanish and English, I strive to ensure every patient feels heard and comforted in my care. My diverse experience in various hospital settings across the DFW area has refined my teamwork skills, enabling me to deliver effective and compassionate care in a wide range of healthcare situations. My dedication to ongoing learning ensure my patients receive the most up-to-date and empathetic care possible.
Maria Camacho is a caring and devoted healthcare provider based in Texas. With extensive experience as a psychiatric provider, I am deeply committed to addressing my patients' needs with both skill and empathy. Bilingual in Spanish and English, I strive to ensure every patient feels heard and comforted in my care. My diverse experience in various hospital settings across the DFW area has refined my teamwork skills, enabling me to deliver effective and compassionate care in a wide range of healthcare situations. My dedication to ongoing learning ensure my patients receive the most up-to-date and empathetic care possible.

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.

Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.

Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. It's important to find a doctor you feel comfortable with, who is willing to listen without judgment, and who can treat you holistically. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I offer both psychotherapy and medication management, allowing me to individualize treatment according to your needs.
Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. It's important to find a doctor you feel comfortable with, who is willing to listen without judgment, and who can treat you holistically. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I offer both psychotherapy and medication management, allowing me to individualize treatment according to your needs.

Cindy Moua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
“Let’s work together to rewrite your story—one of resilience, strength, and hope.” I’m dedicated to deeply understanding your individual experiences, challenges, and goals, so we can create a tailored approach that truly addresses your unique needs. What sets me apart is my commitment to meeting you where you are, providing compassionate care that empowers you to take an active role in your journey. Through a combination of evidence-based practices, empathetic listening, and collaborative decision-making, I aim to help you build resilience, gain clarity, and make meaningful progress toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
“Let’s work together to rewrite your story—one of resilience, strength, and hope.” I’m dedicated to deeply understanding your individual experiences, challenges, and goals, so we can create a tailored approach that truly addresses your unique needs. What sets me apart is my commitment to meeting you where you are, providing compassionate care that empowers you to take an active role in your journey. Through a combination of evidence-based practices, empathetic listening, and collaborative decision-making, I aim to help you build resilience, gain clarity, and make meaningful progress toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Shane Tipton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working in the practice of Lee Spencer, MD, I provide comprehensive and personalized care for individuals 17 and older who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, mood disorders (including depression & bipolar disorder), post-traumatic stress, ADHD, problematic substance use, addictive disorders, and many other psychiatric illnesses.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working in the practice of Lee Spencer, MD, I provide comprehensive and personalized care for individuals 17 and older who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, mood disorders (including depression & bipolar disorder), post-traumatic stress, ADHD, problematic substance use, addictive disorders, and many other psychiatric illnesses.

Scheena Williams is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Baylor University and Walden University. Scheena is relatable, caring, and compassionate about helping patients reach their most optimal level. Outside of work, Scheena enjoys spending time with her twins, traveling, baking, and listening to many genres of music.
Scheena Williams is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Baylor University and Walden University. Scheena is relatable, caring, and compassionate about helping patients reach their most optimal level. Outside of work, Scheena enjoys spending time with her twins, traveling, baking, and listening to many genres of music.
See more therapy options for 76205
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 76205
< 10
Psychiatrists in 76205 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Optum |
75% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 76205 see their clients
60% | Online Only | |
40% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 76205?
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.