Psychiatrists in 77339
![Photo of Bharath Raj - Holistic Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd5f3738-07b7-49cf-a7ce-8b12cbf76c39/2/320x400.jpeg)
We offer comprehensive mental health services including psychiatric evaluations, second opinions, medication management appointments, medication assisted opioid treatments, transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and ketamine based therapy. Our clinicians are credentialed in local inpatient facilities, to provide the full spectrum of treatment.
We offer comprehensive mental health services including psychiatric evaluations, second opinions, medication management appointments, medication assisted opioid treatments, transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and ketamine based therapy. Our clinicians are credentialed in local inpatient facilities, to provide the full spectrum of treatment.
![Photo of Laura Madu, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b846aff-378b-46b4-84a2-a2ade6bc8c36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Madu is dedicated to empowering her patients through a therapeutic partnership that respects individual values and experiences. Serving the Texas community, she offers nonjudgmental, patient-centered, and holistic care tailored to each person's unique needs. Laura aims to equip her patients with the tools they need to achieve their most meaningful goals, fostering a transparent and collaborative treatment environment. Laura provides support for a wide range of mental health conditions and her approach integrates evidence-based practices, ensuring comprehensive care for her patients.
Laura Madu is dedicated to empowering her patients through a therapeutic partnership that respects individual values and experiences. Serving the Texas community, she offers nonjudgmental, patient-centered, and holistic care tailored to each person's unique needs. Laura aims to equip her patients with the tools they need to achieve their most meaningful goals, fostering a transparent and collaborative treatment environment. Laura provides support for a wide range of mental health conditions and her approach integrates evidence-based practices, ensuring comprehensive care for her patients.
![Photo of Bradley Vessel, FNP-BC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c1ebd39-0509-4199-abd7-712bbbf02dbf/1/320x400.png)
Bradley Vessel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I truly believe that Mental Health is fundamental at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. It is also my belief that every individual is unique with varying perspectives about life. From the initial interaction, I focus on providing an environment that is safe, comfortable, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive. This environment provides an opportunity to collaborate and establish a positive relationship with my clients. I am trained in the use of medication management, brief psychotherapy, and relaxation techniques to help individuals reach their desired goals.
I truly believe that Mental Health is fundamental at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. It is also my belief that every individual is unique with varying perspectives about life. From the initial interaction, I focus on providing an environment that is safe, comfortable, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive. This environment provides an opportunity to collaborate and establish a positive relationship with my clients. I am trained in the use of medication management, brief psychotherapy, and relaxation techniques to help individuals reach their desired goals.
![Photo of Donesha Tinsley, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81bf12d4-637d-4c23-bfdc-f7a86c9e032a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donesha Tinsley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I love what I do and I'm passionate about helping others. I came to Texas in 2010 as a motivated student and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Prairie View A&M University in 2015. I gained valuable experience working in the intermediate and cardiac intensive care unit. In 2018, I had an amazing opportunity to serve on a medical mission trip in the Dominican Republic. My passion for mental health emerged from my experience in critical care, where I realized that I cared about my patient's mental health.
I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I love what I do and I'm passionate about helping others. I came to Texas in 2010 as a motivated student and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Prairie View A&M University in 2015. I gained valuable experience working in the intermediate and cardiac intensive care unit. In 2018, I had an amazing opportunity to serve on a medical mission trip in the Dominican Republic. My passion for mental health emerged from my experience in critical care, where I realized that I cared about my patient's mental health.
![Photo of Jim Simon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f38a3242-6dd0-4e6c-86c4-63a7245dfa85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
![Photo of Victor Bonoan, NP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c6ba79b-2748-4e8e-bb7f-cfb5b9eaa057/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 10 years' experience working in the Emergency Room and Psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and substance use settings. I have worked for Memorial Hermann, Methodist, Harris Health, UHS, and HCA facilities. I have been an NP over 3 years now and offer full and comprehensive mental health care. I bring that vast knowledge and training into my treatment modalities. I feel that every person is an individual with their own story to tell and life to live. I find treating patients in that individual scope is the best approach to care and healing.
I have over 10 years' experience working in the Emergency Room and Psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and substance use settings. I have worked for Memorial Hermann, Methodist, Harris Health, UHS, and HCA facilities. I have been an NP over 3 years now and offer full and comprehensive mental health care. I bring that vast knowledge and training into my treatment modalities. I feel that every person is an individual with their own story to tell and life to live. I find treating patients in that individual scope is the best approach to care and healing.
![Photo of Angela Tefft, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11bf78e6-29dc-4796-85ac-21c13127e510/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
![Photo of Henrietta Evans - Tranquility Behavioral Health Clinic & TMS Center, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d6ecb2b-392e-4460-886f-b2fb931de74d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquility Behavioral Health Clinic & TMS Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Welcome to Tranquility Behavioral Health LLC & TMS Center – a premier psychiatric clinic dedicated to providing high-quality psychiatric and mental health care to individuals in our community. Since our establishment in 2010, our team of experienced professionals has been committed to helping our clients manage and overcome mental health challenges. Discover Your Best Self: Personalized Mental Health Care at Tranquility Behavioral Health LLC & TMS Center! Experience top-notch, evidence-based treatments like Theta-Burst rTMS therapy. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey to healing!
Welcome to Tranquility Behavioral Health LLC & TMS Center – a premier psychiatric clinic dedicated to providing high-quality psychiatric and mental health care to individuals in our community. Since our establishment in 2010, our team of experienced professionals has been committed to helping our clients manage and overcome mental health challenges. Discover Your Best Self: Personalized Mental Health Care at Tranquility Behavioral Health LLC & TMS Center! Experience top-notch, evidence-based treatments like Theta-Burst rTMS therapy. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey to healing!
![Photo of Henrietta Evans, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5ee89d-c52e-4b75-a6bd-ab42d7e1cd9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Henrietta Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Hello! I am a Dual Board-Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, specializing as a Psychiatric and Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. I have dedicated over 31 years to nurturing, cultivating, and promoting human well-being, guided by my strong ethical beliefs. I strive to treat all who pass through my doors with kindness, compassion, empathy, and humility. My life's passion is to support others when they need it the most. As a proud US Army Disabled Veteran, I am honored to have served my country, and I bring this sense of duty and care to my practice.
Hello! I am a Dual Board-Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, specializing as a Psychiatric and Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. I have dedicated over 31 years to nurturing, cultivating, and promoting human well-being, guided by my strong ethical beliefs. I strive to treat all who pass through my doors with kindness, compassion, empathy, and humility. My life's passion is to support others when they need it the most. As a proud US Army Disabled Veteran, I am honored to have served my country, and I bring this sense of duty and care to my practice.
![Photo of Bryan Boyle, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, LPC-S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce50aee-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan Boyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Bryan is licensed as both a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with prescriptive authority, and a psychotherapist. He is currently accepting new patients for medication management.
Bryan is licensed as both a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with prescriptive authority, and a psychotherapist. He is currently accepting new patients for medication management.
![Photo of Yolanda Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1348e1db-4b9d-4537-8e67-4eb5232a2b72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yolanda Smith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Yolanda can help a client by relating to him/her and helping them to understand that psychotherapy is just as important as medication management. Outside of work, Yolanda enjoys reading, listening to music, attending sporting events, and spending time with family and friends.
Yolanda Smith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Yolanda can help a client by relating to him/her and helping them to understand that psychotherapy is just as important as medication management. Outside of work, Yolanda enjoys reading, listening to music, attending sporting events, and spending time with family and friends.
![Photo of Linda Mbang ( Serenity Family Psychiatry), APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79aff8cc-f23d-46ba-ac4a-5c1851b1c501/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Mbang ( Serenity Family Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77339 (Online Only)
I attend to patients with Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I and II, Autism, Schizophrenia, shift work sleep disorders and other psychiatric conditions. I believe in the integration of holistic modalities and the latest advancement in psychiatric research to deliver tailored solutions that address the complex interplay of social, psychological and biological factors that affect a mental well-being of an individual. I strive to create a non-judgmental environment where people can feel heard, valued, respected, and supported towards their journey to mental health wellness using evidence-based interventions.
I attend to patients with Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I and II, Autism, Schizophrenia, shift work sleep disorders and other psychiatric conditions. I believe in the integration of holistic modalities and the latest advancement in psychiatric research to deliver tailored solutions that address the complex interplay of social, psychological and biological factors that affect a mental well-being of an individual. I strive to create a non-judgmental environment where people can feel heard, valued, respected, and supported towards their journey to mental health wellness using evidence-based interventions.
![Photo of Dr. Henrietta Evans, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c629a74-353d-4cf6-b047-76f0bbe81851/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Henrietta Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr. Henrietta Evans, DNP, APRN, with dual certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Geriatric Nursing. My career began in 1993 as an LPN in the U.S. Army, leading to a BSN from the University of Phoenix and an MSN from the University of South Alabama, focusing on psychiatric care. I earned a Gerontological NP certificate in 2010 and a DNP in 2015. Additionally, I'm certified in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy. With over 31 years across diverse medical fields, my holistic approach integrates mind, body, and soul wellness, continually advancing nursing excellence.
Hi, I'm Dr. Henrietta Evans, DNP, APRN, with dual certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Geriatric Nursing. My career began in 1993 as an LPN in the U.S. Army, leading to a BSN from the University of Phoenix and an MSN from the University of South Alabama, focusing on psychiatric care. I earned a Gerontological NP certificate in 2010 and a DNP in 2015. Additionally, I'm certified in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy. With over 31 years across diverse medical fields, my holistic approach integrates mind, body, and soul wellness, continually advancing nursing excellence.
![Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb9de8be-c829-4939-b716-08f8f8ee691c/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? 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.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? 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.
![Photo of Alicia R Thomas, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5da7c183-42c0-42f1-a988-4c5307142562/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia R Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339 (Online Only)
Fortitude Behavioral Health is a telehealth clinical practice which specializes in mental health care assessments and treatment. Our practice is highly committed to evidence-based practices and keeping up to date with new and emerging psychiatric treatment modalities. We assess patients 12 years and older and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, adjustment disorder, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and Insomnia. Schedule your appointment to start your journey to healing today!
Fortitude Behavioral Health is a telehealth clinical practice which specializes in mental health care assessments and treatment. Our practice is highly committed to evidence-based practices and keeping up to date with new and emerging psychiatric treatment modalities. We assess patients 12 years and older and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, adjustment disorder, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and Insomnia. Schedule your appointment to start your journey to healing today!
![Photo of Debbie Weze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7527ca38-641d-4ead-ac63-7031a9bb08b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Weze, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner of Procare Behavioral has years of experience in mental health nursing and delivering quality care to her clients. Her services include Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and Follow up Care. She treats 18 years and older. She specializes in anxiety disorders. depression, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia and Insomnia. She focuses on ensuring her clients are properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. At Procare Behavioral we offer affordable out of pocket rates- Also accepting insurances.
Debbie Weze, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner of Procare Behavioral has years of experience in mental health nursing and delivering quality care to her clients. Her services include Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and Follow up Care. She treats 18 years and older. She specializes in anxiety disorders. depression, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia and Insomnia. She focuses on ensuring her clients are properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. At Procare Behavioral we offer affordable out of pocket rates- Also accepting insurances.
![Photo of Ajoke Kazeem, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4873a0d0-429f-4140-9ea9-1770f9c94826/1/320x400.png)
Ajoke Kazeem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339 (Online Only)
Hi I'm Ajoke! I have an extensive background working in psychiatry and mental health. I have seen people at their lowest and have developed a passion for helping them walk through those emotions and get to a place of balance in their lives, and I look forward to helping you too. I focus on and treat disorders ranging from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Sleep disorder, Bipolar disorder, emotional/behavioral issues in children, ADHD, DMDD, ODD etc.
Hi I'm Ajoke! I have an extensive background working in psychiatry and mental health. I have seen people at their lowest and have developed a passion for helping them walk through those emotions and get to a place of balance in their lives, and I look forward to helping you too. I focus on and treat disorders ranging from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Sleep disorder, Bipolar disorder, emotional/behavioral issues in children, ADHD, DMDD, ODD etc.
See more therapy options for 77339
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 77339
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 77339 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Anxiety |
82% | Psychosis |
76% | ADHD |
76% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 77339 see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 77339?
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.