Psychiatrists in 77441

Leticia Loret de Mola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! Are you looking for some relief from your suffering? Do you desire a provider that listens to you and tries to understand, and tailor the treatment to your individual needs? Contact me, Leticia Loret de Mola, NP today! My desire is to provide more holistic care to my clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound. My philosophy is based on a holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric and medical disorders. My goal is to build a therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique and individual patient care. Hola mi gente, hablo Español. ¡Déjame ayudar!
Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! Are you looking for some relief from your suffering? Do you desire a provider that listens to you and tries to understand, and tailor the treatment to your individual needs? Contact me, Leticia Loret de Mola, NP today! My desire is to provide more holistic care to my clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound. My philosophy is based on a holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric and medical disorders. My goal is to build a therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique and individual patient care. Hola mi gente, hablo Español. ¡Déjame ayudar!

Dr. Shelly Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
Are you looking for some relief from your anxiety and depression? Do you have trouble focusing or sleeping? Do you desire a provider who listens to you, is compassionate and understanding, and tailors the treatment to your individual needs? Contact Dr. Shelly, NP today! Dr. Shelly's desire is to provide more holistic care to her clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound. Her philosophy is based on a holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric and medical disorders. Her goal is to build a therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique and individual patient care.
Are you looking for some relief from your anxiety and depression? Do you have trouble focusing or sleeping? Do you desire a provider who listens to you, is compassionate and understanding, and tailors the treatment to your individual needs? Contact Dr. Shelly, NP today! Dr. Shelly's desire is to provide more holistic care to her clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound. Her philosophy is based on a holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric and medical disorders. Her goal is to build a therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique and individual patient care.

Ruby Reflections Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients Across Texas! Are you grappling with feelings of forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or constant distractions? Do you find it hard to muster the motivation to face the day, feeling tearful without reason, or struggling with restless nights? If trauma has left you feeling anxious and on edge, remember, you are not alone.
Accepting New Patients Across Texas! Are you grappling with feelings of forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or constant distractions? Do you find it hard to muster the motivation to face the day, feeling tearful without reason, or struggling with restless nights? If trauma has left you feeling anxious and on edge, remember, you are not alone.

Alpha Health Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Alpha Health Psychiatry believed that clients with mental and behavioral challenges are a special population who needs patient-centered, informed, compassionate, quality, and professional care to improve care outcome. We see the clients as partners in care who need to be heard. We believe that a combination of therapy, medication, diet, exercise, life coaching, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person’s mental and overall health leading to optimal physical and mental health and more purposeful life. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!
Alpha Health Psychiatry believed that clients with mental and behavioral challenges are a special population who needs patient-centered, informed, compassionate, quality, and professional care to improve care outcome. We see the clients as partners in care who need to be heard. We believe that a combination of therapy, medication, diet, exercise, life coaching, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person’s mental and overall health leading to optimal physical and mental health and more purposeful life. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!

I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I then completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I am Board Certified in General, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I then completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I am Board Certified in General, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.
Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.

Welcome to my practice, my name is Adanna Oladejo, and I am a Board-certified PMHNP with experience treating most mental health-related conditions and struggles. My experience in the several years of being a Nurse Practitioner encompasses the treatment of Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with life situations and/or medical comorbidities; with a particular focus on individuals, groups, and families. My goal is to provide mental health treatment in line with evidenced-based practice guidelines keeping ethical approaches in mind while partnering with you to prioritize your mental wellbeing.
Welcome to my practice, my name is Adanna Oladejo, and I am a Board-certified PMHNP with experience treating most mental health-related conditions and struggles. My experience in the several years of being a Nurse Practitioner encompasses the treatment of Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with life situations and/or medical comorbidities; with a particular focus on individuals, groups, and families. My goal is to provide mental health treatment in line with evidenced-based practice guidelines keeping ethical approaches in mind while partnering with you to prioritize your mental wellbeing.

Nanu A Ogunyoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in dealing with the patient as a whole when it comes to depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, PTSD, and sleep problems. We currently accept new telehealth patients from Colorado, Nevada, and Texas. We will work with you to make sure you get the best care you deserve. We work with you individually to come up with a plan to get you functioning at your optimal best.
I believe in dealing with the patient as a whole when it comes to depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, PTSD, and sleep problems. We currently accept new telehealth patients from Colorado, Nevada, and Texas. We will work with you to make sure you get the best care you deserve. We work with you individually to come up with a plan to get you functioning at your optimal best.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Cornerstone Psychiatry and Counseling in Houston, Texas, is a welcoming mental health practice serving adolescents and adults. Led by psychiatrist John Hsieh, MD, the practice offers a holistic approach to mental health, addressing the biological, social, and spiritual factors that contribute to mental health issues. Dr. Hsieh believes that people are made in the image of God. Each and every patient is treated with compassion, respect, and dignity, as Dr. Hsieh would want his own family to be treated.
Cornerstone Psychiatry and Counseling in Houston, Texas, is a welcoming mental health practice serving adolescents and adults. Led by psychiatrist John Hsieh, MD, the practice offers a holistic approach to mental health, addressing the biological, social, and spiritual factors that contribute to mental health issues. Dr. Hsieh believes that people are made in the image of God. Each and every patient is treated with compassion, respect, and dignity, as Dr. Hsieh would want his own family to be treated.

Francis Mbella Manga @tp-Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in California. I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years now.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in California. I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years now.

Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.

Dr. Joseph Ukonu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, PharmD, RPh
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77096
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Are you looking for someone who can listen to you without prejudice? Look no further! Hi, I am Dr. Joseph "Joe" Ukonu. Dr Joseph Ukonu is double certified by the AANP as a Family Nurse Practitioner and by the ANCC as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr Ukonu also is a Registered Pharmacist, with a doctorate degree in Pharmacy, with emphasis in psychopharmacology. Dr. Joseph Ukonu has more than 20 years' experience taking care of psychiatric and mental health clients. Dr Joseph Ukonu is a veteran, who served as an officer in the US army.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Are you looking for someone who can listen to you without prejudice? Look no further! Hi, I am Dr. Joseph "Joe" Ukonu. Dr Joseph Ukonu is double certified by the AANP as a Family Nurse Practitioner and by the ANCC as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr Ukonu also is a Registered Pharmacist, with a doctorate degree in Pharmacy, with emphasis in psychopharmacology. Dr. Joseph Ukonu has more than 20 years' experience taking care of psychiatric and mental health clients. Dr Joseph Ukonu is a veteran, who served as an officer in the US army.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.

Dr. Hope Essien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
** Currently accepting New Patients for both online Telepsychiatry and in person visits.** Virtual Telehealth and mental health services at your fingertips. Prompt appointments, No insurance approvals needed if self pay. Complete Psychiatry & Medical Care, Pllc, is a one stop practice for your mental health and medical care needs in the Katy/Houston area and throughout Texas. Our model of care considers the holistic nature of the mind and body. If the mind is not sound, the body suffers and vice versa. That is why at Complete Psychiatry & Medical Care, the state of your whole health is our prime focus, not just the disease.
** Currently accepting New Patients for both online Telepsychiatry and in person visits.** Virtual Telehealth and mental health services at your fingertips. Prompt appointments, No insurance approvals needed if self pay. Complete Psychiatry & Medical Care, Pllc, is a one stop practice for your mental health and medical care needs in the Katy/Houston area and throughout Texas. Our model of care considers the holistic nature of the mind and body. If the mind is not sound, the body suffers and vice versa. That is why at Complete Psychiatry & Medical Care, the state of your whole health is our prime focus, not just the disease.

Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.
Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.

WholeMind Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling? Overwhelmed? having relationship problems? or dealing with cycles of anxiety and mood disorders? I am here to help, I am dedicated to helping you thrive, and together, we can identify what the problem is and get you back to balance.
Are you struggling? Overwhelmed? having relationship problems? or dealing with cycles of anxiety and mood disorders? I am here to help, I am dedicated to helping you thrive, and together, we can identify what the problem is and get you back to balance.

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

Embark on a journey to mental well-being with compassionate care. Dr. Bello, DNP, PMHNP-BC has worked in mental health since 2017, and she is committed to guiding you towards a brighter, balanced life. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she has worked for the largest academic psychiatric hospital in the nation. She is passionate about providing holistic and patient center. Your mental health is your greatest wealth, and Dr. Bello's goal is to help you thrive. Let's navigate the path to healing together, where understanding meets expertise.
Embark on a journey to mental well-being with compassionate care. Dr. Bello, DNP, PMHNP-BC has worked in mental health since 2017, and she is committed to guiding you towards a brighter, balanced life. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she has worked for the largest academic psychiatric hospital in the nation. She is passionate about providing holistic and patient center. Your mental health is your greatest wealth, and Dr. Bello's goal is to help you thrive. Let's navigate the path to healing together, where understanding meets expertise.

Onyinyechi Nwakanma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.

Alina Naik - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77080
Not accepting new clients
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
See more therapy options for 77441
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 77441
< 10
Psychiatrists in 77441 who prioritize treating:
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 77441 see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 77441?
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.