Psychiatrists in 77008

Now accepting new patients from across Texas! Are you uncertain if what you're experiencing is typical? Do questions arise about forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, or persistent distractions? Has getting out of bed become a struggle, or has enthusiasm for life waned with unexplained tears? Sleep troubles and lingering exhaustion also sound familiar? If trauma has left you anxious, I'm here to support you. You don't have to navigate these challenges alone—I'm here to help. With experience working with teens, and adults, I specialize in substance use, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
Now accepting new patients from across Texas! Are you uncertain if what you're experiencing is typical? Do questions arise about forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, or persistent distractions? Has getting out of bed become a struggle, or has enthusiasm for life waned with unexplained tears? Sleep troubles and lingering exhaustion also sound familiar? If trauma has left you anxious, I'm here to support you. You don't have to navigate these challenges alone—I'm here to help. With experience working with teens, and adults, I specialize in substance use, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.

Hi! I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Houston, TX. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Washington State University and my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Chamberlain University.
Hi! I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Houston, TX. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Washington State University and my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Chamberlain University.

My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.
My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.

Dr. Reena Kumar, MD is a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Nutritional Psychiatrist. Dr Kumar earned her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry degree from Dell Medical School at The University of Texas in Austin. Dr. Kumar is very passionate about working with children and their families and making a difference in their lives. Her patients love her for her calm demeanor, indomitable spirit, and genuine love & care she brings into her their lives. She has also received accolades for family therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion work. She also provides experiential group sessions for mindfulness meditation and lifestyle and dietary changes.
Dr. Reena Kumar, MD is a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Nutritional Psychiatrist. Dr Kumar earned her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry degree from Dell Medical School at The University of Texas in Austin. Dr. Kumar is very passionate about working with children and their families and making a difference in their lives. Her patients love her for her calm demeanor, indomitable spirit, and genuine love & care she brings into her their lives. She has also received accolades for family therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion work. She also provides experiential group sessions for mindfulness meditation and lifestyle and dietary changes.

Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com

Hi, I’m Kimberly Acholonu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I help people who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with their thoughts and emotions. My goal is to work with you to ease these challenges and improve your daily life through therapy, medication, or both.
Hi, I’m Kimberly Acholonu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I help people who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with their thoughts and emotions. My goal is to work with you to ease these challenges and improve your daily life through therapy, medication, or both.

Our goal is to understand our client’s chief complaints, accurately diagnose them, and formulate a treatment plan specifically to that client’s needs. Empathetic listening is the cornerstone of our interview process. We take time to get to know our clients without being judgmental. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. We take a holistic evidence-based approach to improve a patient’s quality of life rather than trying to fix one problem.
Our goal is to understand our client’s chief complaints, accurately diagnose them, and formulate a treatment plan specifically to that client’s needs. Empathetic listening is the cornerstone of our interview process. We take time to get to know our clients without being judgmental. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. We take a holistic evidence-based approach to improve a patient’s quality of life rather than trying to fix one problem.

Are you looking for a psychiatrist who spends time to get to know you? One that isn't quick to throw medicines within the first 10 minutes of meeting? What about an integrative physician who validates you as a human being first and walks alongside you to find the ideal treatment options?
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who spends time to get to know you? One that isn't quick to throw medicines within the first 10 minutes of meeting? What about an integrative physician who validates you as a human being first and walks alongside you to find the ideal treatment options?

Zeshan Mehmood, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive expertise in mental health care. With a strong background in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, Zeshan is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals experiencing a range of mental health conditions. His approach integrates evidence-based practices with a focus on personalized care, aiming to enhance the overall well-being of his patients. Zeshan is committed to supporting mental health through effective management strategies, including therapy and medication.
Zeshan Mehmood, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive expertise in mental health care. With a strong background in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, Zeshan is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals experiencing a range of mental health conditions. His approach integrates evidence-based practices with a focus on personalized care, aiming to enhance the overall well-being of his patients. Zeshan is committed to supporting mental health through effective management strategies, including therapy and medication.

Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.

Personal Statement A Imagine your ideal client: Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Personal Statement A Imagine your ideal client: Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.

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.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We help patients establish a professional relationship with a dedicated physician who knows their medical history and medication regimen. This provides the patient with continuity of care and on-demand access to a doctor through telemedicine or in-person appointments. We manage a wide spectrum of illnesses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, ADHD and insomnia. Patients with these conditions have the best chance of improvement when they have regular appointments with the same physician who works with the patient in a professional setting.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We help patients establish a professional relationship with a dedicated physician who knows their medical history and medication regimen. This provides the patient with continuity of care and on-demand access to a doctor through telemedicine or in-person appointments. We manage a wide spectrum of illnesses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, ADHD and insomnia. Patients with these conditions have the best chance of improvement when they have regular appointments with the same physician who works with the patient in a professional setting.

Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges 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.
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.

Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.

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.
See more therapy options for 77008
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 77008
40+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 77008 who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
88% | Medication Management |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Sleep or Insomnia |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 77008 see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 77008?
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.