Psychiatrists in 77024

Photo of Patrick Thomas Jr, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Patrick Thomas Jr
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Sometimes life breaks you down, either in a hurry, or over time. I work to help you heal those breaks. Using evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques, I can provide you tools to address the pressing issues; then, if you so choose, we can explore the causes of long standing concerns in your life. As a board certified psychiatrist, I also have expertise in psychopharmacology. Additionally, I recognize that each patient's situation may be complicated by various factors; to optimize well-being and quality of life, I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of concern.
Sometimes life breaks you down, either in a hurry, or over time. I work to help you heal those breaks. Using evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques, I can provide you tools to address the pressing issues; then, if you so choose, we can explore the causes of long standing concerns in your life. As a board certified psychiatrist, I also have expertise in psychopharmacology. Additionally, I recognize that each patient's situation may be complicated by various factors; to optimize well-being and quality of life, I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of concern.
(832) 558-5525 View (832) 558-5525
Photo of George Attobrah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
George Attobrah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I offer quality, affordable mental health care with immediate in-person appointments available in Houston and online appointments throughout Texas. After a detailed assessment and diagnostic evaluation, I will provide you with a customized treatment plan that may include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders, I would be happy to help.
I offer quality, affordable mental health care with immediate in-person appointments available in Houston and online appointments throughout Texas. After a detailed assessment and diagnostic evaluation, I will provide you with a customized treatment plan that may include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders, I would be happy to help.
(832) 648-4087 View (832) 648-4087
Photo of Michelle Petmi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Michelle Petmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Houston, TX 77024
Michelle Petmi is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes that individuals are the experts of their own lives. She fosters an environment where clients can develop skills to manage difficulties and gain insight into their unique challenges. Trained in both medication management and brief psychotherapy, she helps individuals achieve their desired goals through a collaborative and personalized approach. Michelle has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Michelle Petmi is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes that individuals are the experts of their own lives. She fosters an environment where clients can develop skills to manage difficulties and gain insight into their unique challenges. Trained in both medication management and brief psychotherapy, she helps individuals achieve their desired goals through a collaborative and personalized approach. Michelle has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma-related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
(832) 430-7822 View (832) 430-7822
Photo of Ronald Garb, Psychiatrist, MD
Ronald Garb
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Dr Garb was born and educated in Johannesburg, South Africa. He received his medical and psychiatric training in South Africa and the U.K. He is board.certified in 3 countries, including by the American Board of Psychiatry in 1990. His career has included academic honors and professorial experience, as well as clinical leadership across a broad spectrum of psychiatric services in Johannesburg and Tel Aviv, before being recruited to Houston in 1991. Throughout, Dr Garb has also maintained a well recognized and highly respected private practice wherever he has gone, including his current outpatient practice in Houston.
Dr Garb was born and educated in Johannesburg, South Africa. He received his medical and psychiatric training in South Africa and the U.K. He is board.certified in 3 countries, including by the American Board of Psychiatry in 1990. His career has included academic honors and professorial experience, as well as clinical leadership across a broad spectrum of psychiatric services in Johannesburg and Tel Aviv, before being recruited to Houston in 1991. Throughout, Dr Garb has also maintained a well recognized and highly respected private practice wherever he has gone, including his current outpatient practice in Houston.
(281) 779-8566 View (281) 779-8566
Photo of Nicholas Bryant, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicholas Bryant
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Dr. Bryant is a psychiatrist committed to providing quality mental health care for adults and children of all ages. Believing that mental health is the foundation for a happy and meaningful life, Dr. Bryant takes the time with each patient to understand his or her unique situation in order to customize an effective treatment plan. Always with a smile and caring attitude, he looks forward to welcoming your family.
Dr. Bryant is a psychiatrist committed to providing quality mental health care for adults and children of all ages. Believing that mental health is the foundation for a happy and meaningful life, Dr. Bryant takes the time with each patient to understand his or her unique situation in order to customize an effective treatment plan. Always with a smile and caring attitude, he looks forward to welcoming your family.
(832) 648-2573 View (832) 648-2573
Photo of Alissa Carver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Alissa Carver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Houston, TX 77024
Alissa Carver is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She earned an MSN at University of Texas at Austin and an MS at Texas Woman’s University. Alissa started providing clinical help with patients as a licensed professional counselor in 2009, providing mental health services such as therapy and family training in the areas of hospice, inpatient mental health, and brain injury rehabilitation. During this time, Alissa deepened her appreciation for the role of medication in maintaining mental wellness and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in 2023.
Alissa Carver is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She earned an MSN at University of Texas at Austin and an MS at Texas Woman’s University. Alissa started providing clinical help with patients as a licensed professional counselor in 2009, providing mental health services such as therapy and family training in the areas of hospice, inpatient mental health, and brain injury rehabilitation. During this time, Alissa deepened her appreciation for the role of medication in maintaining mental wellness and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in 2023.
(346) 460-4233 View (346) 460-4233
Photo of Rabia Kamal, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rabia Kamal
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Houston, TX 77024
I work with individuals seeking to understand their mental health challenges and learn how to manage them effectively. My clients value education about their conditions and appreciate a provider who listens, explains, and partners with them in their care.
I work with individuals seeking to understand their mental health challenges and learn how to manage them effectively. My clients value education about their conditions and appreciate a provider who listens, explains, and partners with them in their care.
(346) 598-6460 View (346) 598-6460
Photo of Harry Siegele, Psychiatrist, MD
Harry Siegele
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Dr. Siegele will meet with you for a one-hour initial consultation to gather a comprehensive psychiatric, medical and social assessment. He will then work with you to determine a preliminary treatment plan using evidence-based treatment, encompassing both medications and therapy. Some patients may require a longer period of assessment as Dr. Siegele reviews previous treatment records, collaborates with family members or visits with you to gather more of your history. Dr. Siegele strongly believes in a collaborative doctor-patient alliance and he will work with you to find the best treatment plan for your specialized needs.
Dr. Siegele will meet with you for a one-hour initial consultation to gather a comprehensive psychiatric, medical and social assessment. He will then work with you to determine a preliminary treatment plan using evidence-based treatment, encompassing both medications and therapy. Some patients may require a longer period of assessment as Dr. Siegele reviews previous treatment records, collaborates with family members or visits with you to gather more of your history. Dr. Siegele strongly believes in a collaborative doctor-patient alliance and he will work with you to find the best treatment plan for your specialized needs.
(281) 377-0535 View (281) 377-0535
Photo of Dr. Daniela White - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(346) 707-3147 View (346) 707-3147
Photo of Amanda Barrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Barrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Houston, TX 77024
I first obtained my Bachelor's in Psychology from Appalachian State University in 2007. I then completed my Diploma in Nursing from Watts School of Nursing in Durham, NC in 2010. While working full time in the local hospital as a registered nurse, I put myself through school to obtain my Bachelor's in Nursing from Appalachian State University in 2010. Life happened and I moved to Ohio to complete my Master's in Nursing; Family Nurse Practitioner from Ohio University while working as a nurse on a med-surge unit.
I first obtained my Bachelor's in Psychology from Appalachian State University in 2007. I then completed my Diploma in Nursing from Watts School of Nursing in Durham, NC in 2010. While working full time in the local hospital as a registered nurse, I put myself through school to obtain my Bachelor's in Nursing from Appalachian State University in 2010. Life happened and I moved to Ohio to complete my Master's in Nursing; Family Nurse Practitioner from Ohio University while working as a nurse on a med-surge unit.
(832) 648-4258 View (832) 648-4258
Photo of Donna Louella Edwards, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Donna Louella Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Houston, TX 77024
I am board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and have had a licensed nurse since 1978. I have worked in Emergency Triage of Psychiatric Problems, and worked on many inpatient Psychiatric Units. For the last 15 years I have been a Nurse Practitioner and have been helping people with Emotional and Mental Problems live successful and productive lives. A combination of medication and psychotherapy help people get better. I have worked in collaboration with Dr. Boris Rubashkin since 2004.
I am board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and have had a licensed nurse since 1978. I have worked in Emergency Triage of Psychiatric Problems, and worked on many inpatient Psychiatric Units. For the last 15 years I have been a Nurse Practitioner and have been helping people with Emotional and Mental Problems live successful and productive lives. A combination of medication and psychotherapy help people get better. I have worked in collaboration with Dr. Boris Rubashkin since 2004.
(281) 369-9136 View (281) 369-9136
Photo of Joshua Freedman - HealthPiper, Psychiatrist
HealthPiper
Psychiatrist
Houston, TX 77024
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(346) 591-0770 View (346) 591-0770
Photo of Kimika Medina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimika Medina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Houston, TX 77024
I have always believed that mental wellness is the path towards achieving a balanced and peaceful life. Prior to becoming a provider, I spent my nursing career in the specialty I am most passionate about, psychiatric nursing. The experience proved invaluable. Nursing provided me insight into the unique needs of the mental health community, and the skills have shaped me as a provider. Regardless of background, anyone can suffer from mental illness. We all will encounter difficulties in life, and at times need support navigating through them. This is where I can provide my assistance, acting as a compass to help guide you through.
I have always believed that mental wellness is the path towards achieving a balanced and peaceful life. Prior to becoming a provider, I spent my nursing career in the specialty I am most passionate about, psychiatric nursing. The experience proved invaluable. Nursing provided me insight into the unique needs of the mental health community, and the skills have shaped me as a provider. Regardless of background, anyone can suffer from mental illness. We all will encounter difficulties in life, and at times need support navigating through them. This is where I can provide my assistance, acting as a compass to help guide you through.
(346) 590-6511 View (346) 590-6511
Photo of Brandi Starks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CLC
Brandi Starks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CLC
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
If you're a woman who usually has everything under control but now feels overwhelmed by life's pressures, or a mother grappling with a new reality and feeling detached from your baby and family, you're not alone. Fathers experiencing mood swings and parents seeking support for a child with ADHD and behavioral challenges can find solace here.
If you're a woman who usually has everything under control but now feels overwhelmed by life's pressures, or a mother grappling with a new reality and feeling detached from your baby and family, you're not alone. Fathers experiencing mood swings and parents seeking support for a child with ADHD and behavioral challenges can find solace here.
(346) 584-3299 View (346) 584-3299
Photo of Lawrence Oke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lawrence Oke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Houston, TX 77024
Lawrence Oke provides comprehensive mental health care for adults across Texas, supporting individuals through life transitions, emotional challenges, and complex psychiatric conditions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, he offers individualized treatment plans that blend psychotherapy, medication management, and compassionate support. Lawrence works with adults of all ages, including college students, professionals, and older adults, with a focus on empowering each person to take an active role in their healing journey.
Lawrence Oke provides comprehensive mental health care for adults across Texas, supporting individuals through life transitions, emotional challenges, and complex psychiatric conditions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, he offers individualized treatment plans that blend psychotherapy, medication management, and compassionate support. Lawrence works with adults of all ages, including college students, professionals, and older adults, with a focus on empowering each person to take an active role in their healing journey.
(346) 597-3875 View (346) 597-3875
Photo of Ashley Toutounchi - AuraMD, Psychiatrist, MD
AuraMD
Psychiatrist, MD
Houston, TX 77024
Dr. Toutounchi has extensive training in medication management, working collaboratively with you to achieve your a sense of stability and optimal outcomes. Dr. T received her undergraduate University of North Texas, graduating with highest honors, summa cum laude. She obtained her medical degree and completed residency at the University of Texas Medical Texas at Houston and served as chief resident. She was voted by patients for "On time Doctor Award," "Patient's Choice Award" and Compassionate Doctor Recognition. She has been recognized and honored in both 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 as Top Doctors in H Texas Magazine."
Dr. Toutounchi has extensive training in medication management, working collaboratively with you to achieve your a sense of stability and optimal outcomes. Dr. T received her undergraduate University of North Texas, graduating with highest honors, summa cum laude. She obtained her medical degree and completed residency at the University of Texas Medical Texas at Houston and served as chief resident. She was voted by patients for "On time Doctor Award," "Patient's Choice Award" and Compassionate Doctor Recognition. She has been recognized and honored in both 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 as Top Doctors in H Texas Magazine."
(832) 956-0419 View (832) 956-0419
Photo of Linzi Leighton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Linzi Leighton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Houston, TX 77024
Linzi Leighton is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2005 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in 2012. Linzi believes in using a collaborate approach that is patient-centered and individualized. She provides support, guidance, and education to address individual needs and enhance emotional well-being.
Linzi Leighton is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2005 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in 2012. Linzi believes in using a collaborate approach that is patient-centered and individualized. She provides support, guidance, and education to address individual needs and enhance emotional well-being.
(832) 688-6614 View (832) 688-6614
Photo of Dr. Chizelle Onochie - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Houston, TX 77024
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(346) 680-1199 View (346) 680-1199
Photo of Jessica B Holt, Psychiatrist, MD
Jessica B Holt
Psychiatrist, MD
Houston, TX 77024
As a working mother, spouse, and physician, I understand the challenges facing women and men in the Houston area. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems with mood (depression) and anxiety are likely to emerge, particularly in those with personal or family histories of such disorders. I see patients ages 18 and above and am interested in the social, academic,occupational, marital and emotional difficulties which often arise at various turning points in life and as responsibility accrues throughout our lifetime. It's never too late to get help or seek change.
As a working mother, spouse, and physician, I understand the challenges facing women and men in the Houston area. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems with mood (depression) and anxiety are likely to emerge, particularly in those with personal or family histories of such disorders. I see patients ages 18 and above and am interested in the social, academic,occupational, marital and emotional difficulties which often arise at various turning points in life and as responsibility accrues throughout our lifetime. It's never too late to get help or seek change.
(713) 338-9236 View (713) 338-9236
Photo of Arianne Suarez Lago, Psychiatrist, MD
Arianne Suarez Lago
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a focus on serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and adults. While much of my current practice is within a partial psychiatric hospital setting, I also maintain a limited private psychiatric practice to cater to a diverse range of patients outside of my typical clinical environment. This allows me to offer a high level of responsiveness and flexibility to those seeking private care.
Hello, I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a focus on serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and adults. While much of my current practice is within a partial psychiatric hospital setting, I also maintain a limited private psychiatric practice to cater to a diverse range of patients outside of my typical clinical environment. This allows me to offer a high level of responsiveness and flexibility to those seeking private care.
(346) 258-8576 View (346) 258-8576

See more therapy options for 77024

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 77024

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 77024 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
94% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
80% Trauma and PTSD
77% Sleep or Insomnia
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

99% Cigna and Evernorth
93% BlueCross and BlueShield
92% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 77024 see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 77024?

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.