Psychiatrists in 77381

Photo of Brett Kramer, Psychiatrist
Brett Kramer
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck whether it’s struggling with focus, anxiety, or behaviors that interfere with daily life. They want answers, a clear diagnosis, and a plan that makes sense. Often, they’ve tried to manage on their own and are ready for real support. I work with individuals and families to understand the full picture, not just the symptoms, and create treatment plans that are practical, collaborative, and rooted in compassion. The goal is progress that feels possible and sustainable.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck whether it’s struggling with focus, anxiety, or behaviors that interfere with daily life. They want answers, a clear diagnosis, and a plan that makes sense. Often, they’ve tried to manage on their own and are ready for real support. I work with individuals and families to understand the full picture, not just the symptoms, and create treatment plans that are practical, collaborative, and rooted in compassion. The goal is progress that feels possible and sustainable.
(936) 215-6882 View (936) 215-6882
Photo of Ifeoma Nwugbana, Psychiatrist, MD
Ifeoma Nwugbana
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I am passionate about providing excellent, wholesome and compassionate care, as I believe this is the key to any successful mental health treatment. I have special interests in treating ADHD, autism, depression and anxiety, and can provide specialist services to all age groups. I am looking forward to building a great therapeutic relationship with you.
I am passionate about providing excellent, wholesome and compassionate care, as I believe this is the key to any successful mental health treatment. I have special interests in treating ADHD, autism, depression and anxiety, and can provide specialist services to all age groups. I am looking forward to building a great therapeutic relationship with you.
(713) 597-4204 View (713) 597-4204
Photo of Jeremy Eugene Orgel, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeremy Eugene Orgel
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Many patients believe psychiatrists only prescribe medications, or that they treat mental illnesses but not patients. I am a very experienced psychiatrist, psychotherapist and psychoanalyst. I also worked for 25 years with hospitalized teenagers. I will listen carefully, offer expert support and guidance, and treat you as a whole, unique person with complex needs and wishes. We will work collaboratively to formulate your own goals, and I will help you meet them. I do prescribe medications, but only when it is necessary, and not without also offering you other ways of getting the help that you need. Licensed in Texas and California.
Many patients believe psychiatrists only prescribe medications, or that they treat mental illnesses but not patients. I am a very experienced psychiatrist, psychotherapist and psychoanalyst. I also worked for 25 years with hospitalized teenagers. I will listen carefully, offer expert support and guidance, and treat you as a whole, unique person with complex needs and wishes. We will work collaboratively to formulate your own goals, and I will help you meet them. I do prescribe medications, but only when it is necessary, and not without also offering you other ways of getting the help that you need. Licensed in Texas and California.
(936) 213-6354 View (936) 213-6354
Lisa Boyd
Psychiatrist, MD
The Woodlands, TX 77381
Personal Service from a respected medical doctor in a relaxing, quiet setting. Seeing New Patients each week! Board Certified: Adults, Adolescents, and Children. We are proud of our individual approach to patient care. We have one simple goal and that goal has never changed: We want to take care of people.
Personal Service from a respected medical doctor in a relaxing, quiet setting. Seeing New Patients each week! Board Certified: Adults, Adolescents, and Children. We are proud of our individual approach to patient care. We have one simple goal and that goal has never changed: We want to take care of people.
(832) 981-6282 View (832) 981-6282
Photo of Rupert Lawrence Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rupert Lawrence Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Spring, TX 77381
My ideal client is one who is experiencing significant life stress. They may be dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, or feelings of inadequacy as they strive to meet personal and professional expectations. Often, they feel overwhelmed by their emotions, impacting mood and behavior. These individuals have a strong desire for deeper self-understanding and are looking for effective ways to cope with their challenges. They need a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where they feel empowered in making choices that align with their values and highest self.
My ideal client is one who is experiencing significant life stress. They may be dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, or feelings of inadequacy as they strive to meet personal and professional expectations. Often, they feel overwhelmed by their emotions, impacting mood and behavior. These individuals have a strong desire for deeper self-understanding and are looking for effective ways to cope with their challenges. They need a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where they feel empowered in making choices that align with their values and highest self.
(346) 517-7092 View (346) 517-7092
Photo of Joshua Freedman - HealthPiper, Psychiatrist
HealthPiper
Psychiatrist
Spring, TX 77381
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(936) 251-4285 View (936) 251-4285
Photo of Dr. Taiwo I Abioye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Taiwo I Abioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
(830) 240-2074 View (830) 240-2074
Photo of Quinn Walkley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Quinn Walkley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My care is provided in a holistic approach incorporating medication management as well as a mind-body approach. I believe that by combining mental, physical, faith, and spiritual well being each patient can achieve their full potential. Mental health is often an overlooked piece of people’s health and I am passionate about empowering people so that they can live their best life.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My care is provided in a holistic approach incorporating medication management as well as a mind-body approach. I believe that by combining mental, physical, faith, and spiritual well being each patient can achieve their full potential. Mental health is often an overlooked piece of people’s health and I am passionate about empowering people so that they can live their best life.
(936) 226-2241 View (936) 226-2241
Photo of Dana Ebeling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Dana Ebeling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
I offer medication management for people dealing with mood disorders, like depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia and other psychiatric conditions—especially when other health issues make treatment more complex. I take the time to get your medications right and make sure they’re working for you. My approach blends traditional and integrative options, always tailored to your goals. If you're looking for a provider who listens, explains things clearly, and works with you to find what helps, I’m here for you.
I offer medication management for people dealing with mood disorders, like depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia and other psychiatric conditions—especially when other health issues make treatment more complex. I take the time to get your medications right and make sure they’re working for you. My approach blends traditional and integrative options, always tailored to your goals. If you're looking for a provider who listens, explains things clearly, and works with you to find what helps, I’m here for you.
(281) 378-6451 View (281) 378-6451
Photo of Shiraz Qalbani - Psychiatric Consulting Of The Woodlands, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Psychiatric Consulting Of The Woodlands, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Qalbani is a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He completed his residency training at the University of Kentucky in Adult Psychiatry as well as a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ​He practices psychotherapy and psychopharmacology and has extensive experience treating a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Dr. Qalbani is a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He completed his residency training at the University of Kentucky in Adult Psychiatry as well as a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ​He practices psychotherapy and psychopharmacology and has extensive experience treating a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
(281) 603-5634 View (281) 603-5634
Photo of Sarah Allison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarah Allison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an integrative practitioner who offers faith-based care to overwhelmed parents, professionals, and teens ages 15+ with anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD. I partner with my clients to attain peace, clarity, and motivation by integrating conventional treatments, such as medication, lab work, and therapy, with proven natural methods, including lifestyle adjustments, nutritional coaching, and supplement recommendations. My approach offers a clear roadmap to track progress and avoid the endless "therapy cycle".
I am an integrative practitioner who offers faith-based care to overwhelmed parents, professionals, and teens ages 15+ with anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD. I partner with my clients to attain peace, clarity, and motivation by integrating conventional treatments, such as medication, lab work, and therapy, with proven natural methods, including lifestyle adjustments, nutritional coaching, and supplement recommendations. My approach offers a clear roadmap to track progress and avoid the endless "therapy cycle".
(936) 253-6627 View (936) 253-6627
Photo of Meredith Childress, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Meredith Childress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Meredith - a dual-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I help clients who are tired of feeling unwell, whether physically, mentally, or both. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, fatigue, or chronic illness. If you’ve tried quick fixes that didn’t last & are now ready for real, lasting change, I’m here to help. My ideal client is motivated, open-minded, & ready to feel like themselves again. If you’re craving clarity, confidence, & a whole-person approach that doesn’t just chase symptoms, you’re in the right place.
Hi, I’m Meredith - a dual-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I help clients who are tired of feeling unwell, whether physically, mentally, or both. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, fatigue, or chronic illness. If you’ve tried quick fixes that didn’t last & are now ready for real, lasting change, I’m here to help. My ideal client is motivated, open-minded, & ready to feel like themselves again. If you’re craving clarity, confidence, & a whole-person approach that doesn’t just chase symptoms, you’re in the right place.
(512) 548-3366 View (512) 548-3366
Photo of Arianne Suarez Lago, Psychiatrist, MD
Arianne Suarez Lago
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a focus on serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and adults. While much of my current practice is within a partial psychiatric hospital setting, I also maintain a limited private psychiatric practice to cater to a diverse range of patients outside of my typical clinical environment. This allows me to offer a high level of responsiveness and flexibility to those seeking private care.
Hello, I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a focus on serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and adults. While much of my current practice is within a partial psychiatric hospital setting, I also maintain a limited private psychiatric practice to cater to a diverse range of patients outside of my typical clinical environment. This allows me to offer a high level of responsiveness and flexibility to those seeking private care.
(346) 258-8576 View (346) 258-8576
Photo of Layth Hakim, Psychiatrist, MD
Layth Hakim
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Layth Hakim is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Hakim has more than 15 years of clinical experience and have taught psychopharmacology to psychiatric residents. Outside of work, Dr. Hakim enjoys fishing, meditation, and narcissistic abuse recovery.
Dr. Layth Hakim is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Hakim has more than 15 years of clinical experience and have taught psychopharmacology to psychiatric residents. Outside of work, Dr. Hakim enjoys fishing, meditation, and narcissistic abuse recovery.
(936) 253-1920 View (936) 253-1920
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(936) 265-0622 View (936) 265-0622
Photo of Teresa Hale, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Teresa Hale
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Dr. T. Lynn Hale, PMHNP, DNP Dr. T. Lynn Hale, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, offers integrative mental health care to patients throughout Texas. With a deep commitment to individualized treatment, she addresses each patient s unique challenges with compassion and dignity. Dr. Hale serves adults across various age groups, from young adults to seniors, and specializes in providing medication management and therapeutic support for mental health conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and postpartum anxiety.
Dr. T. Lynn Hale, PMHNP, DNP Dr. T. Lynn Hale, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, offers integrative mental health care to patients throughout Texas. With a deep commitment to individualized treatment, she addresses each patient s unique challenges with compassion and dignity. Dr. Hale serves adults across various age groups, from young adults to seniors, and specializes in providing medication management and therapeutic support for mental health conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and postpartum anxiety.
(936) 243-5571 View (936) 243-5571
Photo of Gloria Keraga, Psychiatrist, MD
Gloria Keraga
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Keraga did her Medical School training at New York Medical College, psychiatric residency at St. Vincent's hospital and finished her last year of psychiatric residency at Baylor Medical School in Houston. Since, graduations she worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, private practice and nursing homes. She held positions as the unit head of a treatment units in hospital and was the Head of a company, Pathfinders of America, who put psychiatric units into general hospitals in Texas, California and Las Vegas.
Dr. Keraga did her Medical School training at New York Medical College, psychiatric residency at St. Vincent's hospital and finished her last year of psychiatric residency at Baylor Medical School in Houston. Since, graduations she worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, private practice and nursing homes. She held positions as the unit head of a treatment units in hospital and was the Head of a company, Pathfinders of America, who put psychiatric units into general hospitals in Texas, California and Las Vegas.
(936) 246-2944 View (936) 246-2944
Photo of Bharath Raj - Holistic Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(713) 804-7546 View (713) 804-7546
Photo of Arif Mirza - VPPClinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, Psychiatrist, MD
VPPClinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Now Accepting New Patients in Texas – Virtual Appointments Available! Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling to stay focused, or navigating unpredictable mood changes? You're not alone — and you don't have to face it alone. I specialize in helping busy students, parents, and working professionals find clarity, relief, and balance through personalized, attentive, expert care. Your time is valuable. book same-week video appointments to fit your schedule and help you start feeling better — faster. TXT 469-770-7750.
Now Accepting New Patients in Texas – Virtual Appointments Available! Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling to stay focused, or navigating unpredictable mood changes? You're not alone — and you don't have to face it alone. I specialize in helping busy students, parents, and working professionals find clarity, relief, and balance through personalized, attentive, expert care. Your time is valuable. book same-week video appointments to fit your schedule and help you start feeling better — faster. TXT 469-770-7750.
(936) 227-5871 View (936) 227-5871
Photo of Tabitha Kelly, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Tabitha Kelly
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Perhaps you're considering medication as part of you mental health journey. And, you have questions - totally understandable! When working with me, you can expect a safe, and collaborative environment where your concerns are validated. With many years of experience in mental health, I specialize in treating adults across the lifespan. My expertise spans a range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and bipolar disorder. As a board-certified Physician Assistant with added qualifications in Psychiatry, I provide evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Perhaps you're considering medication as part of you mental health journey. And, you have questions - totally understandable! When working with me, you can expect a safe, and collaborative environment where your concerns are validated. With many years of experience in mental health, I specialize in treating adults across the lifespan. My expertise spans a range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and bipolar disorder. As a board-certified Physician Assistant with added qualifications in Psychiatry, I provide evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
(346) 445-6091 View (346) 445-6091

See more therapy options for 77381

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 77381

20+

Average cost per session

$149

Psychiatrists in 77381 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Medication Management
78% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
70% Bipolar Disorder
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 77381 see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 77381?

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.