Psychiatrists in 77084

Amanda L. Meltzer is a double board Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Upon completion of her U.S. training, Dr. Meltzer traveled to beautiful New Zealand where she completed additional training in Holistic Psychiatry and Integrated Behavioral Care. Her style today is based on a strong foundation of U.S. evidence-based Medicine enhanced by an emphasis on diet, exercise, and lifestyle management.
Amanda L. Meltzer is a double board Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Upon completion of her U.S. training, Dr. Meltzer traveled to beautiful New Zealand where she completed additional training in Holistic Psychiatry and Integrated Behavioral Care. Her style today is based on a strong foundation of U.S. evidence-based Medicine enhanced by an emphasis on diet, exercise, and lifestyle management.

My name is Dolly Lofinmakin, and I look forward to partnering with individuals to help improve their quality of life. I have over 15 years of healthcare experience with 8 years as a provider. I am passionate about educating individuals on ways to prevent and manage health conditions, leading to a thriving future. I specialize in treating, adjustment problems due to life stressors and mood disorders like anxiety, depression and bipolar across the lifespan. Mood problems can affect anyone at any age, in any condition. I believe in helping individuals navigate their way to a flourishing life.
My name is Dolly Lofinmakin, and I look forward to partnering with individuals to help improve their quality of life. I have over 15 years of healthcare experience with 8 years as a provider. I am passionate about educating individuals on ways to prevent and manage health conditions, leading to a thriving future. I specialize in treating, adjustment problems due to life stressors and mood disorders like anxiety, depression and bipolar across the lifespan. Mood problems can affect anyone at any age, in any condition. I believe in helping individuals navigate their way to a flourishing life.

Amy Owens Horelica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77084
My ideal client is someone who is proactive and open to personal growth but feels stuck due to mental health challenges. They might be dealing with conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or mood disorders that are affecting their ability to function in their daily life. Their needs extend beyond just symptom relief—they are seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and want to regain control over their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
My ideal client is someone who is proactive and open to personal growth but feels stuck due to mental health challenges. They might be dealing with conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or mood disorders that are affecting their ability to function in their daily life. Their needs extend beyond just symptom relief—they are seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and want to regain control over their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Reconnecting Healthcare group, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you stressed, having up-and-down moods, issues with life? Do you want a stabilized mood, looking for means to get back to functioning to full capacity? This is a place for you. Reconnecting healthcare group is a patient-focused psychiatric mental health facility that uses a holistic approach to provide compassionate, innovative care, while evidence-based practices in dealing with issues and patients' mental needs.
Are you stressed, having up-and-down moods, issues with life? Do you want a stabilized mood, looking for means to get back to functioning to full capacity? This is a place for you. Reconnecting healthcare group is a patient-focused psychiatric mental health facility that uses a holistic approach to provide compassionate, innovative care, while evidence-based practices in dealing with issues and patients' mental needs.

I'm Lilian Davidson, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about guiding individuals toward a mentally healthy and fulfilling life. With years of specialized training, including a Doctor of Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama, and hands-on experience in psychiatric care, I bring a depth of knowledge and a gentle touch to every patient encounter. My commitment to your health is rooted in a comprehensive approach that blends thorough physical assessments with personalized treatment plans.
I'm Lilian Davidson, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about guiding individuals toward a mentally healthy and fulfilling life. With years of specialized training, including a Doctor of Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama, and hands-on experience in psychiatric care, I bring a depth of knowledge and a gentle touch to every patient encounter. My commitment to your health is rooted in a comprehensive approach that blends thorough physical assessments with personalized treatment plans.

I have gained immense training from exceptional psychiatry training programs in Metropolitan New York City. I bring that experience and knowledge to help patients in another dynamic and rapidly expanding city,Houston and surrounding areas. I see patients 17 and up. I expertise in various mental health issues both in males and females. With so many stressors in life and multiple challenges faced anyone can need a psychiatrist anytime in life. I have specialization in Geriatrics and thus can help significantly people in their 60s going through various emotional challenges.
I have gained immense training from exceptional psychiatry training programs in Metropolitan New York City. I bring that experience and knowledge to help patients in another dynamic and rapidly expanding city,Houston and surrounding areas. I see patients 17 and up. I expertise in various mental health issues both in males and females. With so many stressors in life and multiple challenges faced anyone can need a psychiatrist anytime in life. I have specialization in Geriatrics and thus can help significantly people in their 60s going through various emotional challenges.

Hello and welcome! I'm Priscilla A. Timoh, your dedicated and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My journey in mental health care has been fueled by a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique challenges and fostering strong connections with patients, their families, and the broader health community. With a rich educational background from UMass Global and Walden University, I've honed my expertise in mental health nursing to provide you with compassionate and comprehensive care. My approach is simple: I listen, understand, and work alongside you to navigate the complexities of mental wellness.
Hello and welcome! I'm Priscilla A. Timoh, your dedicated and Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My journey in mental health care has been fueled by a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique challenges and fostering strong connections with patients, their families, and the broader health community. With a rich educational background from UMass Global and Walden University, I've honed my expertise in mental health nursing to provide you with compassionate and comprehensive care. My approach is simple: I listen, understand, and work alongside you to navigate the complexities of mental wellness.

Blessing Iwuozo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for excellent mental health care? You’re in the right place. With extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and insomnia, I offer both knowledge and practical skills. I use medication management when necessary and care for patients aged 13 and up in Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Washington.
Are you looking for excellent mental health care? You’re in the right place. With extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and insomnia, I offer both knowledge and practical skills. I use medication management when necessary and care for patients aged 13 and up in Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Washington.

Step by Step Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Step-by-Step Psychiatry, we provide psychiatric evaluations & assessments to ensure that we are providing the best treatment plan for you. We provide medication management, and therapy as needed. We specialize in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, ADHD, among others. We want to ensure that we are working together as team so that you better understand your diagnosis and provides your input to your treatment. I believe that working together helps build trust, understanding and allows you to be heard without judgement.
At Step-by-Step Psychiatry, we provide psychiatric evaluations & assessments to ensure that we are providing the best treatment plan for you. We provide medication management, and therapy as needed. We specialize in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, ADHD, among others. We want to ensure that we are working together as team so that you better understand your diagnosis and provides your input to your treatment. I believe that working together helps build trust, understanding and allows you to be heard without judgement.

Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.

Are you feeling sad, helpless, anxious and overwhelmed? I treat patients with these symptoms, and I'm here to help. I specialize in working with clients age 5 and up who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis and sleep problems.
Are you feeling sad, helpless, anxious and overwhelmed? I treat patients with these symptoms, and I'm here to help. I specialize in working with clients age 5 and up who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis and sleep problems.
15 Second Videos

Maybe you’re anxious for no reason, not enjoying things you once liked, or unmotivated. You might feel something is off by the way you think or the things you do. It might be time to speak with me, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed to perform psychiatric evaluations, diagnose and treat mental health conditions, prescribe medication, order labs, and provide medication management.
Maybe you’re anxious for no reason, not enjoying things you once liked, or unmotivated. You might feel something is off by the way you think or the things you do. It might be time to speak with me, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed to perform psychiatric evaluations, diagnose and treat mental health conditions, prescribe medication, order labs, and provide medication management.

Now accepting new patients! Visits are online. Medications will be prescribed electronically. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication + therapy will help improve your symptoms.
Now accepting new patients! Visits are online. Medications will be prescribed electronically. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication + therapy will help improve your symptoms.

Jelilat Omowumi Buhari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.

A compassionate, dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner highly regarded for 5+ years of success providing advanced, comprehensive care with a high degree of positive outcome. Are you tired of second-guessing yourself, feeling disorganized, or powerless? Are you ready to experience healthier relationships with others with a higher quality and balanced life? I specialize in helping people stay on track, clarify their goals, and co-create the life they want in a safe and healthy environment. We treat Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating Disorders. Virtual Appointments Only (Telehealth)
A compassionate, dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner highly regarded for 5+ years of success providing advanced, comprehensive care with a high degree of positive outcome. Are you tired of second-guessing yourself, feeling disorganized, or powerless? Are you ready to experience healthier relationships with others with a higher quality and balanced life? I specialize in helping people stay on track, clarify their goals, and co-create the life they want in a safe and healthy environment. We treat Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating Disorders. Virtual Appointments Only (Telehealth)

I am Mihaela Born, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping patients achieve wellness and a better quality of life. Certified by the American Heart Association and National Stroke Association, I hold nursing licenses across Texas, Colorado, Idaho, and New Mexico. Fluent in five languages, I connect well with diverse patients. Recognized for my leadership and patient care, I was nominated for Nurse of the Year in 2015. My compassionate, culturally sensitive approach empowers patients of all ages, ensuring they feel heard and supported.
I am Mihaela Born, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping patients achieve wellness and a better quality of life. Certified by the American Heart Association and National Stroke Association, I hold nursing licenses across Texas, Colorado, Idaho, and New Mexico. Fluent in five languages, I connect well with diverse patients. Recognized for my leadership and patient care, I was nominated for Nurse of the Year in 2015. My compassionate, culturally sensitive approach empowers patients of all ages, ensuring they feel heard and supported.

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 depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.

Life’s challenges, whether anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health with the support of a compassionate partner. They are seeking personalized care that addresses their unique needs and helps them regain balance and peace. Together, we will create a plan that empowers you to overcome your challenges and move toward a more fulfilling and healthier life. You deserve care that truly supports your journey toward well-being.
Life’s challenges, whether anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health with the support of a compassionate partner. They are seeking personalized care that addresses their unique needs and helps them regain balance and peace. Together, we will create a plan that empowers you to overcome your challenges and move toward a more fulfilling and healthier life. You deserve care that truly supports your journey toward well-being.

My ideal client is someone who is looking for a whole mind and body approach for enhancing their overall wellness. I don't want to simply medicate symptoms, but rather work with my clients to discover the root cause for the way they feel. I want my clients to not only feel better, but to be better.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a whole mind and body approach for enhancing their overall wellness. I don't want to simply medicate symptoms, but rather work with my clients to discover the root cause for the way they feel. I want my clients to not only feel better, but to be better.
See more therapy options for 77084
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 77084
60+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 77084 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
98% | Depression |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | ADHD |
72% | Sleep or Insomnia |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 77084 see their clients
63% | Online Only | |
37% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 77084?
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.