Psychiatrists in 77030

Photo of Michael Millstone - Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I know your time is valuable. Initial consultative evaluation appointments are available for scheduling WITHIN 1-2 WEEKS, unless I am not accepting new patients at that time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. Initial consultative evaluation appointments are available for scheduling WITHIN 1-2 WEEKS, unless I am not accepting new patients at that time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
(832) 990-0327 View (832) 990-0327
Photo of Lilian Ike, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Ike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
I’m passionate about providing patient-centric and holistic care to my clients. I have established workable solutions to assist patients in achieving their optimum mental or behavioral health goals. I have ensured that the best possible outcome is achieved, using scientifically proven practices that suits my patient’s specific lifestyle and culture. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in the healthcare area, having worked with behavior health programs, mental health hospitals, and private practices. I treat a wide range of behavioral and mental health issues, and I approach patients
I’m passionate about providing patient-centric and holistic care to my clients. I have established workable solutions to assist patients in achieving their optimum mental or behavioral health goals. I have ensured that the best possible outcome is achieved, using scientifically proven practices that suits my patient’s specific lifestyle and culture. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in the healthcare area, having worked with behavior health programs, mental health hospitals, and private practices. I treat a wide range of behavioral and mental health issues, and I approach patients
(281) 247-6330 View (281) 247-6330
Photo of Karen Hughes, DO, Psychiatrist
Karen Hughes
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030
At One Behavioral, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our six locations, our psychiatrists, counselors and psychologists aim to provide our patients to compassionate and judgement free care they need through advanced technology and treatment.
At One Behavioral, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our six locations, our psychiatrists, counselors and psychologists aim to provide our patients to compassionate and judgement free care they need through advanced technology and treatment.
(281) 559-7633 x1 View (281) 559-7633 x1
Photo of Dr. Li Jin, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Li Jin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Jin is a double board-certified addiction psychiatrist at Modern Psychiatry Center. She specializes in medication management of various psychiatric conditions, such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Her area of expertise lies in the treatment of substance use disorders, especially Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine. Dr. Jin offers only video appointments. Modern Psychiatry Center does not offer counseling services at this time. Please visit our website at modernpsychcenter.com to learn more about Dr. Jin and our practice.
Dr. Jin is a double board-certified addiction psychiatrist at Modern Psychiatry Center. She specializes in medication management of various psychiatric conditions, such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Her area of expertise lies in the treatment of substance use disorders, especially Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine. Dr. Jin offers only video appointments. Modern Psychiatry Center does not offer counseling services at this time. Please visit our website at modernpsychcenter.com to learn more about Dr. Jin and our practice.
(832) 307-0941 View (832) 307-0941
Photo of Ed Osevwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ed Osevwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030
Hello! I'm Ed Osevwe, your dedicated partner in achieving optimal mental health. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I've committed my professional life to assisting individuals like yourself in discovering inner peace and fulfillment. Whether you're contending with the challenges of anxiety, experiencing periods of sadness, or facing difficulties with concentration, I am here to support you every step of the way on your path to well-being. I am committed to fostering a secure and empathetic environment where you can authentically express yourself without fear of judgment.
Hello! I'm Ed Osevwe, your dedicated partner in achieving optimal mental health. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I've committed my professional life to assisting individuals like yourself in discovering inner peace and fulfillment. Whether you're contending with the challenges of anxiety, experiencing periods of sadness, or facing difficulties with concentration, I am here to support you every step of the way on your path to well-being. I am committed to fostering a secure and empathetic environment where you can authentically express yourself without fear of judgment.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Kimberly Bernard Wingard - Solid Foundation Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030
Meet Ms. Kimberly PMHNP-BC, your dedicated provider on the path to mental wellness. With a passion for healing and a wealth of experience, I bring warmth, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and uncover the strength within you. Trust in our journey toward healing and growth.
Meet Ms. Kimberly PMHNP-BC, your dedicated provider on the path to mental wellness. With a passion for healing and a wealth of experience, I bring warmth, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and uncover the strength within you. Trust in our journey toward healing and growth.
(832) 400-3049 View (832) 400-3049
Photo of Dr. Ololade Bello - Neuron Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Neuron Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on a journey to mental well-being with compassionate care. Dr. Bello, DNP, PMHNP-BC has worked in mental health since 2017, and she is committed to guiding you towards a brighter, balanced life. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she has worked for the largest academic psychiatric hospital in the nation. She is passionate about providing holistic and patient center. Your mental health is your greatest wealth, and Dr. Bello's goal is to help you thrive. Let's navigate the path to healing together, where understanding meets expertise.
Embark on a journey to mental well-being with compassionate care. Dr. Bello, DNP, PMHNP-BC has worked in mental health since 2017, and she is committed to guiding you towards a brighter, balanced life. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she has worked for the largest academic psychiatric hospital in the nation. She is passionate about providing holistic and patient center. Your mental health is your greatest wealth, and Dr. Bello's goal is to help you thrive. Let's navigate the path to healing together, where understanding meets expertise.
(281) 519-3622 View (281) 519-3622
Photo of Ashkan Soltan - MindWell Urgent Care, MD, FAACAP, Psychiatrist
MindWell Urgent Care
Psychiatrist, MD, FAACAP
Verified Verified
Online Only
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
(682) 243-7445 View (682) 243-7445
Photo of Agnes M. Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist
Agnes M. Joseph
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist based in Dallas, Texas. I specialize in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders as well as exploring life transitions, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist based in Dallas, Texas. I specialize in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders as well as exploring life transitions, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
(214) 646-1002 View (214) 646-1002
Photo of Obianuju Okafor, PMHNP-B, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Obianuju Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have been providing mental health services for 2 years in outpatient settings. I see Individuals and address Anxiety, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD/ADHD), and Mood Disorder. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience providing mental health services to individuals of all ages and gender. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I spent over six years working as a nurse in different nursing specialties.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have been providing mental health services for 2 years in outpatient settings. I see Individuals and address Anxiety, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD/ADHD), and Mood Disorder. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience providing mental health services to individuals of all ages and gender. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I spent over six years working as a nurse in different nursing specialties.
(832) 688-4769 View (832) 688-4769
Photo of Lola Popoola - Gladys Hope PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gladys Hope PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in health care. I have a broad range of mental health care experience in areas of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I also provide brief talk therapy. I strive to help my patients become the best version of themselves. My goal is to provide the highest quality of care in a comfortable, warm, and non judgmental setting. My practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, and insomnia. Services are available through telehealth.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in health care. I have a broad range of mental health care experience in areas of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I also provide brief talk therapy. I strive to help my patients become the best version of themselves. My goal is to provide the highest quality of care in a comfortable, warm, and non judgmental setting. My practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, and insomnia. Services are available through telehealth.
(832) 979-1485 View (832) 979-1485
Photo of Esther Christina Kelley-Cook, MD, Psychiatrist
Esther Christina Kelley-Cook
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My patients frequently have another health diagnosis (previous concussions, thyroid/autoimmune problems, etc.) that might make their psychiatric problems such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, or irritability more difficult to treat - or they have tried other treatments in the past that didn't work. So now, they don’t want to waste time, and they want value. They want a renewed sense of purpose and meaning, better sleep, improved relationships, to be able to relax and enjoy life, and a treatment plan that works best for them. If this sounds like what you are looking for, please visit my website at www.fusionpsychiatry.com.
My patients frequently have another health diagnosis (previous concussions, thyroid/autoimmune problems, etc.) that might make their psychiatric problems such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, or irritability more difficult to treat - or they have tried other treatments in the past that didn't work. So now, they don’t want to waste time, and they want value. They want a renewed sense of purpose and meaning, better sleep, improved relationships, to be able to relax and enjoy life, and a treatment plan that works best for them. If this sounds like what you are looking for, please visit my website at www.fusionpsychiatry.com.
(832) 810-2026 View (832) 810-2026
Photo of Salah Qureshi - Texas Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Texas Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
(832) 937-7586 View (832) 937-7586
Photo of Inemesit Sampson, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inemesit Sampson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Inemesit Sampson is a double board certified nurse practitioner
Inemesit Sampson is a double board certified nurse practitioner
(469) 461-7426 View (469) 461-7426
Photo of Jason Glenn Garvin, DO, Psychiatrist
Jason Glenn Garvin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE! As a double board-certified psychiatrist who enjoys doing intensive therapy I offer BOTH medication management (if necessary) and psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children. I focus on each person as an individual and not as a diagnosis. Confidentiality is of the utmost importance, is highly regarded and I personally return all calls. I utilize psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE! As a double board-certified psychiatrist who enjoys doing intensive therapy I offer BOTH medication management (if necessary) and psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children. I focus on each person as an individual and not as a diagnosis. Confidentiality is of the utmost importance, is highly regarded and I personally return all calls. I utilize psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
(713) 338-9031 View (713) 338-9031
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(830) 293-5616 View (830) 293-5616
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(830) 402-4373 View (830) 402-4373
Photo of Sylvia Gonzalez - Sylvia Gonzalez, MD, PLLC, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist
Sylvia Gonzalez, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I help people who are depressed, anxious, burned out or overall dissatisfied with their lives. I help those who can't find the words to describe their inner distress. They are unable to understand why they can't enjoy their blessings. They don't understand why they can't progress in their personal or professional life. They may be paralyzed by perfectionism. They are struggling to develop and maintain healthy relationships. They may be struggling with the fact that they need help and don't really understand what it means to have a psychiatric diagnosis.
I help people who are depressed, anxious, burned out or overall dissatisfied with their lives. I help those who can't find the words to describe their inner distress. They are unable to understand why they can't enjoy their blessings. They don't understand why they can't progress in their personal or professional life. They may be paralyzed by perfectionism. They are struggling to develop and maintain healthy relationships. They may be struggling with the fact that they need help and don't really understand what it means to have a psychiatric diagnosis.
(346) 988-2575 View (346) 988-2575
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 Catherine Nwora, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Nwora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Accepting New Patients Either In-Office or Virtually! My goal is to help everyone that comes to me to the best of my ability. Most of the patients I see carry diagnoses of adjustment disorder, ADHD, or mood and anxiety disorders. I feel every patient should have a say in their treatment plan. As a provider, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that helps you and makes your family feel comfortable with it. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, with evidence-based practice. I also believe in the use of non-pharmacological means can also help a patient when necessary.
I am Accepting New Patients Either In-Office or Virtually! My goal is to help everyone that comes to me to the best of my ability. Most of the patients I see carry diagnoses of adjustment disorder, ADHD, or mood and anxiety disorders. I feel every patient should have a say in their treatment plan. As a provider, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that helps you and makes your family feel comfortable with it. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, with evidence-based practice. I also believe in the use of non-pharmacological means can also help a patient when necessary.
(832) 554-9450 View (832) 554-9450

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 77030

20+

Average cost per session

$215

Psychiatrists in 77030 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
90% Bipolar Disorder
90% Medication Management
85% Sleep or Insomnia
70% ADHD
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 77030 see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 77030?

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.