Psychiatrists in 77401

Photo of Kimberlin Dixon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Kimberlin Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
When working with me, someone can expect a collaborative and supportive approach. I prioritize active listening, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude.
When working with me, someone can expect a collaborative and supportive approach. I prioritize active listening, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude.
(346) 617-2356 View (346) 617-2356
Photo of Dr. Natalie J Tellez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Natalie J Tellez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Bellaire, TX 77401
Accepting New Patients Again! It's never too early or too late to get the help you need and I work collaboratively with my patients to develop the most personalized treatment plan, including a balanced approach between medication management, therapy, supplement recommendations, and lifestyle interventions. I am dedicated to helping everyday adults, from various cultures and backgrounds, to cope with their unique struggles. My patients are the center of my practice.
Accepting New Patients Again! It's never too early or too late to get the help you need and I work collaboratively with my patients to develop the most personalized treatment plan, including a balanced approach between medication management, therapy, supplement recommendations, and lifestyle interventions. I am dedicated to helping everyday adults, from various cultures and backgrounds, to cope with their unique struggles. My patients are the center of my practice.
(281) 916-5630 View (281) 916-5630
Photo of Kathleen R Yen, Psychiatrist, MD
Kathleen R Yen
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist in Houston, TX. I offer a calm, comfortable and safe atmosphere for patients to open up and tell their stories. My goal is to provide individualized, evidence-based, compassionate care to improve mental health and overall wellness in each unique person. I have a special interest in working with professionals, stay-at-home parents, and individuals going through life transitions to improve self-esteem, stress management, and work-life balance. I incorporate a range of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and motivational interviewing.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist in Houston, TX. I offer a calm, comfortable and safe atmosphere for patients to open up and tell their stories. My goal is to provide individualized, evidence-based, compassionate care to improve mental health and overall wellness in each unique person. I have a special interest in working with professionals, stay-at-home parents, and individuals going through life transitions to improve self-esteem, stress management, and work-life balance. I incorporate a range of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and motivational interviewing.
(281) 317-6121 View (281) 317-6121
Photo of Joshua Freedman - HealthPiper, Psychiatrist
HealthPiper
Psychiatrist
Bellaire, TX 77401
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(346) 517-6904 View (346) 517-6904
Photo of David Stern, Psychiatrist, MD
David Stern
Psychiatrist, MD
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions.
(346) 214-8133 View (346) 214-8133
Photo of Arun A Andrews, Psychiatrist, MD
Arun A Andrews
Psychiatrist, MD
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am a physician specialized in providing psychiatric care to children,adolescents,teens and adults. Through my practice I address a wide range of mental heath issues, including Depression,Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety Disorders.
I am a physician specialized in providing psychiatric care to children,adolescents,teens and adults. Through my practice I address a wide range of mental heath issues, including Depression,Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety Disorders.
(281) 915-0442 View (281) 915-0442
Photo of Sylvia Gonzalez - Sylvia Gonzalez, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Sylvia Gonzalez, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Bellaire, TX 77401
I help people who are depressed, anxious, burned out or overall dissatisfied with their lives. I help those who can't find the words to describe their inner distress. They are unable to understand why they can't enjoy their blessings. They don't understand why they can't progress in their personal or professional life. They may be paralyzed by perfectionism. They are struggling to develop and maintain healthy relationships. They may be struggling with the fact that they need help and don't really understand what it means to have a psychiatric diagnosis.
I help people who are depressed, anxious, burned out or overall dissatisfied with their lives. I help those who can't find the words to describe their inner distress. They are unable to understand why they can't enjoy their blessings. They don't understand why they can't progress in their personal or professional life. They may be paralyzed by perfectionism. They are struggling to develop and maintain healthy relationships. They may be struggling with the fact that they need help and don't really understand what it means to have a psychiatric diagnosis.
(346) 988-2575 x2 View (346) 988-2575 x2
Photo of Sandhya Prashad - Houston Ketamine Therapeutics, Psychiatrist, MD
Houston Ketamine Therapeutics
Psychiatrist, MD
Bellaire, TX 77401
We offer customized solutions for treatment resistant psychiatric disorders. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We offer both IV ketamine and FDA approved, insurance covered nasal esketamine (Spravato.) We also offer Brainsway deep TMS treatment, which can be administered alone or in combination with ketamine. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
We offer customized solutions for treatment resistant psychiatric disorders. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We offer both IV ketamine and FDA approved, insurance covered nasal esketamine (Spravato.) We also offer Brainsway deep TMS treatment, which can be administered alone or in combination with ketamine. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
(832) 838-4187 View (832) 838-4187
Photo of Andreea Andrei, Psychiatrist, MD
Andreea Andrei
Psychiatrist, MD
Bellaire, TX 77401
I focus my practice on helping professionals in personal or professional crises - people who suffer in context of relationship issues, life transitions, work struggles, mood disorders and/or ineffective coping strategies. Most of my patients carry diagnoses of adjustment, mood and anxiety disorders. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, as clinically indicated.
I focus my practice on helping professionals in personal or professional crises - people who suffer in context of relationship issues, life transitions, work struggles, mood disorders and/or ineffective coping strategies. Most of my patients carry diagnoses of adjustment, mood and anxiety disorders. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, as clinically indicated.
(281) 947-3391 View (281) 947-3391
Photo of Sandhya Prashad, Psychiatrist, MD
Sandhya Prashad
Psychiatrist, MD
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in treating patients who are struggling with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder as well as anxiety. I am especially interested in treatment resistant disorders. I also utilize genetic testing when appropriate to personalize treatment based on an individual's unique ability to process medication. This can improve a patient's response to medications and minimize side effects. Each patient receives a highly individualized treatment plan, and I ensure that contributing factors are addressed in order to position patients to achieve the highest level of success.
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in treating patients who are struggling with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder as well as anxiety. I am especially interested in treatment resistant disorders. I also utilize genetic testing when appropriate to personalize treatment based on an individual's unique ability to process medication. This can improve a patient's response to medications and minimize side effects. Each patient receives a highly individualized treatment plan, and I ensure that contributing factors are addressed in order to position patients to achieve the highest level of success.
(832) 905-9756 View (832) 905-9756
Photo of Bettina Cordova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bettina Cordova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
(713) 597-7273 View (713) 597-7273
Photo of Dayna Kinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dayna Kinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bellaire, TX 77401
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
(713) 588-6775 View (713) 588-6775
Photo of Lindsey Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(713) 597-4841 View (713) 597-4841
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders. Yet, my primary focus is understanding who you are and how I can help—not just your diagnosis. I'm passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and respected. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your experiences. I strive to address the root causes of your challenges, not just manage symptoms. Together, we can navigate obstacles and work towards a healthier, happier you.
I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders. Yet, my primary focus is understanding who you are and how I can help—not just your diagnosis. I'm passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and respected. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your experiences. I strive to address the root causes of your challenges, not just manage symptoms. Together, we can navigate obstacles and work towards a healthier, happier you.
(346) 588-7138 View (346) 588-7138
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
(346) 608-0581 View (346) 608-0581
Photo of Nina Herring, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nina Herring
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
(713) 597-4512 View (713) 597-4512
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
(832) 295-3716 View (832) 295-3716
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
(346) 421-6112 View (346) 421-6112
Photo of Shazar Khan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(346) 485-3320 View (346) 485-3320
Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
(346) 769-0395 View (346) 769-0395

See more therapy options for 77401

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 77401

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 77401 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
96% Medication Management
89% Bipolar Disorder
87% Trauma and PTSD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
76% ADHD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Cigna and Evernorth
93% Aetna
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 77401 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 77401?

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.