Psychiatrists in 77005

Photo of Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
(346) 769-0395 View (346) 769-0395
Photo of Michael Joseph Helminiak - Helm Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helm Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005
Hello! I'm Michael Helminiak, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Texas. My mission is to help you achieve better mental health by looking at every part of your life. I understand that you're more than just a diagnosis, and I believe in treating you as a whole person with unique needs and circumstances.
Hello! I'm Michael Helminiak, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Texas. My mission is to help you achieve better mental health by looking at every part of your life. I understand that you're more than just a diagnosis, and I believe in treating you as a whole person with unique needs and circumstances.
(832) 219-7930 View (832) 219-7930
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life's challenges can be overwhelming when facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I'm Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion lies in providing holistic, integrated care that considers the whole person—mentally, physically, and socially. I believe in active listening and creating a safe space where you feel heard and validated. Together, we'll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and resources.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming when facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I'm Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion lies in providing holistic, integrated care that considers the whole person—mentally, physically, and socially. I believe in active listening and creating a safe space where you feel heard and validated. Together, we'll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and resources.
(832) 479-2644 View (832) 479-2644
Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(346) 595-4070 View (346) 595-4070
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders. Yet, my primary focus is understanding who you are and how I can help—not just your diagnosis. I'm passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and respected. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your experiences. I strive to address the root causes of your challenges, not just manage symptoms. Together, we can navigate obstacles and work towards a healthier, happier you.
I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders. Yet, my primary focus is understanding who you are and how I can help—not just your diagnosis. I'm passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and respected. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your experiences. I strive to address the root causes of your challenges, not just manage symptoms. Together, we can navigate obstacles and work towards a healthier, happier you.
(346) 588-7138 View (346) 588-7138
Photo of Bridgett Gant, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Picture a place where your voice is not just heard but truly understood—a sanctuary where your experiences matter more than any label or diagnosis. If you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood challenges, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support, focusing on who you are as a person. My mission is to help you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles in a warm, non-judgmental space. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond symptom management to achieve lasting well-being.
Picture a place where your voice is not just heard but truly understood—a sanctuary where your experiences matter more than any label or diagnosis. If you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood challenges, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support, focusing on who you are as a person. My mission is to help you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles in a warm, non-judgmental space. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond symptom management to achieve lasting well-being.
(346) 553-0291 View (346) 553-0291
Photo of Karen Ding, MD, Psychiatrist
Karen Ding
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Flourishing Mind Psychiatry, I believe in a holistic approach to psychiatric care. I combine evidence-based treatment methods with a compassionate and personalized touch. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can flourish and achieve their optimal mental well-being. Experience the convenience and flexibility of telepsychiatry with Flourishing Mind Psychiatry via a secure and confidential platform for virtual psychiatric consultations and follow up sessions. Whether you are in Houston or anywhere else in Texas, I am here to support your mental health journey through innovative technology.
At Flourishing Mind Psychiatry, I believe in a holistic approach to psychiatric care. I combine evidence-based treatment methods with a compassionate and personalized touch. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can flourish and achieve their optimal mental well-being. Experience the convenience and flexibility of telepsychiatry with Flourishing Mind Psychiatry via a secure and confidential platform for virtual psychiatric consultations and follow up sessions. Whether you are in Houston or anywhere else in Texas, I am here to support your mental health journey through innovative technology.
(346) 818-2741 View (346) 818-2741
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and your experiences genuinely matter? If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, you don't have to face it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and personal growth, aiming for lasting well-being beyond just temporary relief.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and your experiences genuinely matter? If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, you don't have to face it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and personal growth, aiming for lasting well-being beyond just temporary relief.
(346) 436-8887 View (346) 436-8887
Photo of Eva Kiara, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eva Kiara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. I'm Eva Kirara, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a rich background in ICU nursing and mental health advocacy. Inspired by personal experiences and my work with patients in critical care, I understand the importance of being heard and supported. Serving adults 18 to 60, I provide a safe, empathetic space where we can navigate your journey toward emotional well-being together.
Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. I'm Eva Kirara, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a rich background in ICU nursing and mental health advocacy. Inspired by personal experiences and my work with patients in critical care, I understand the importance of being heard and supported. Serving adults 18 to 60, I provide a safe, empathetic space where we can navigate your journey toward emotional well-being together.
(346) 436-8028 View (346) 436-8028
Photo of Lorna Wilks, MD, Psychiatrist
Lorna Wilks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatrist with 10 years' experience. I do not do ADHD evaluations. I do not prescribe stimulants.
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatrist with 10 years' experience. I do not do ADHD evaluations. I do not prescribe stimulants.
(346) 375-7062 View (346) 375-7062
Photo of Adanna Oladejo, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adanna Oladejo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to my practice, I am a Board-certified PMHNP with experience treating most mental health-related conditions and struggles. My experience in the several years of being a Nurse Practitioner encompasses the treatment of Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with life situations and/or medical comorbidities; with a particular focus on individuals, groups, and families. My goal always has been and remains to provide mental health treatment in line with evidenced-based practice guidelines keeping ethical approaches in mind while partnering with you to prioritize your mental wellbeing.
Welcome to my practice, I am a Board-certified PMHNP with experience treating most mental health-related conditions and struggles. My experience in the several years of being a Nurse Practitioner encompasses the treatment of Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with life situations and/or medical comorbidities; with a particular focus on individuals, groups, and families. My goal always has been and remains to provide mental health treatment in line with evidenced-based practice guidelines keeping ethical approaches in mind while partnering with you to prioritize your mental wellbeing.
(346) 762-2913 View (346) 762-2913
Photo of Smink Achila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
(346) 421-6112 View (346) 421-6112
Photo of Lisa Anne Miller, MD, Psychiatrist
Lisa Anne Miller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
While I prescribe medication, I strongly advocate psychotherapy either in combination with medications, or alone, in most situations. I have extensive training in different modes of psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, and a more intensive type of therapy called Psychoanalysis. I believe that psychotherapy can help bring about the kinds of lasting changes and satisfaction personally and in relationships that most people are looking for.
While I prescribe medication, I strongly advocate psychotherapy either in combination with medications, or alone, in most situations. I have extensive training in different modes of psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, and a more intensive type of therapy called Psychoanalysis. I believe that psychotherapy can help bring about the kinds of lasting changes and satisfaction personally and in relationships that most people are looking for.
(281) 674-7617 View (281) 674-7617
Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
(346) 608-0581 View (346) 608-0581
Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(346) 485-3320 View (346) 485-3320
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
(832) 295-3716 View (832) 295-3716
Photo of Sarah Casola - Green Pastures Mental Care, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Green Pastures Mental Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005
At Green Pastures, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health. We specialize in medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma. Our process starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand your unique needs. We provide education on evidence-based treatment options, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care. Our mission is to offer compassionate, individualized support on your path to mental wellness.
At Green Pastures, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health. We specialize in medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma. Our process starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand your unique needs. We provide education on evidence-based treatment options, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care. Our mission is to offer compassionate, individualized support on your path to mental wellness.
(830) 376-6180 View (830) 376-6180
Photo of Rayan K. Al Jurdi, MD, Psychiatrist
Rayan K. Al Jurdi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a double-boarded psychiatrist, I am trained to assess, evaluate and treat any psychiatric disease. However, I have built my clinical and research career specializing in the area of mood disorders specifically depression and bipolar disorder. My special interests also include neurobehavioral psychiatry, psychosomatic psychiatry and cultural psychiatry. I offer a wide range of treatment modalities including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation.
As a double-boarded psychiatrist, I am trained to assess, evaluate and treat any psychiatric disease. However, I have built my clinical and research career specializing in the area of mood disorders specifically depression and bipolar disorder. My special interests also include neurobehavioral psychiatry, psychosomatic psychiatry and cultural psychiatry. I offer a wide range of treatment modalities including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation.
(832) 981-4396 View (832) 981-4396
Photo of Olateju Olowe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olateju Olowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My treatment approach combines compassionate, empathetic, and culturally aware care with evidence-based practices to form a comprehensive individualized plan.
My treatment approach combines compassionate, empathetic, and culturally aware care with evidence-based practices to form a comprehensive individualized plan.
(346) 988-2593 View (346) 988-2593
Photo of Emmanuel Okoroafor - Recovery Mental Healthcare PLLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Recovery Mental Healthcare PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Emmanuel Okoroafor is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the state of Texas, Holding a dual speciality in Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. He holds a Family nurse practitioner degree from Simons University in Boston and a Psychiatric nurse practitioner certification at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Emmanuel uses his knowledge and experience to help clients ease into recovery from mental health disorders especially Substance use disorder. Specialize in Opioid use disorder and treat with (Suboxone/Buprenorphine), Book now.
Emmanuel Okoroafor is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the state of Texas, Holding a dual speciality in Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. He holds a Family nurse practitioner degree from Simons University in Boston and a Psychiatric nurse practitioner certification at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Emmanuel uses his knowledge and experience to help clients ease into recovery from mental health disorders especially Substance use disorder. Specialize in Opioid use disorder and treat with (Suboxone/Buprenorphine), Book now.
(281) 595-8310 View (281) 595-8310
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 77005

50+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in 77005 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
95% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
81% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 77005 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 77005?

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.