Psychiatrists in 78209

As a physician specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, my treatment approach is deeply family oriented, emphasizing empathic listening and genuine information sharing,” said Dr. Lloyd. “I strive to inspire the next generation to value the importance of fostering internal strength. Wellness is a team endeavor, and I aim to assist families in building the resilience needed to overcome both intergenerational and intragenerational trauma, fostering a path to healing and growth.
As a physician specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, my treatment approach is deeply family oriented, emphasizing empathic listening and genuine information sharing,” said Dr. Lloyd. “I strive to inspire the next generation to value the importance of fostering internal strength. Wellness is a team endeavor, and I aim to assist families in building the resilience needed to overcome both intergenerational and intragenerational trauma, fostering a path to healing and growth.

Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming, but getting help shouldn't be. At Legion Health, we make the process seamless and supportive. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive medication management, including treatment for conditions requiring controlled substances, and provide personalized care plans tailored to your needs. With appointments available within a week and in-network coverage with all major insurance payers, we remove barriers to care so you can focus on what matters—your well-being.
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming, but getting help shouldn't be. At Legion Health, we make the process seamless and supportive. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive medication management, including treatment for conditions requiring controlled substances, and provide personalized care plans tailored to your needs. With appointments available within a week and in-network coverage with all major insurance payers, we remove barriers to care so you can focus on what matters—your well-being.

As a woman of color and an immigrant, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. I treat adults from all cultural backgrounds, with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, PTSD, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. I firmly believe that all patients should be treated with compassion and should experience quality comprehensive mental health care.
As a woman of color and an immigrant, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. I treat adults from all cultural backgrounds, with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, PTSD, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. I firmly believe that all patients should be treated with compassion and should experience quality comprehensive mental health care.

Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.

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.

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.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and gender-specific issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some of the unique challenges that individuals may face. Throughout our lives, different circumstances call for varying levels of psychological support and assistance, and I believe in building a therapeutic rapport to support you.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and gender-specific issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some of the unique challenges that individuals may face. Throughout our lives, different circumstances call for varying levels of psychological support and assistance, and I believe in building a therapeutic rapport to support you.

As a dedicated psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and in the medical field for the past ten years, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey with compassion and expertise. I believe mental health is the foundation of overall well-being, and I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. Every person deserves to be heard, understood, and empowered, and it would be my privilege to walk alongside you in your path to wellness. Together, we can build the healthier, happier life you deserve.
As a dedicated psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and in the medical field for the past ten years, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey with compassion and expertise. I believe mental health is the foundation of overall well-being, and I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. Every person deserves to be heard, understood, and empowered, and it would be my privilege to walk alongside you in your path to wellness. Together, we can build the healthier, happier life you deserve.

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.

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.

Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.

Meg Betanco is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master Degree in Social Work with a Concentration in Clinical Services for Children and Families from The University of Denver, and a Master Degree in Nursing with Concentration of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Meg's approach to care is wholistic and patient centered. She seeks to join patients as a support in their journey to optimal wellness, as the patient defines it. Meg draws on her training as a social worker and a nurse practitioner to combine therapeutic modalities to personalize treatment.
Meg Betanco is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master Degree in Social Work with a Concentration in Clinical Services for Children and Families from The University of Denver, and a Master Degree in Nursing with Concentration of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Meg's approach to care is wholistic and patient centered. She seeks to join patients as a support in their journey to optimal wellness, as the patient defines it. Meg draws on her training as a social worker and a nurse practitioner to combine therapeutic modalities to personalize treatment.

I offer experienced, exceptional care in the heart of Alamo Heights for adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. As Chief Medical Officer at one of the nation’s largest freestanding psychiatric hospitals for over two decades, I bring the same expertise, compassion, and personalized care to Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, Olmos Park, Monte Vista, Dominion and Sonterra areas. If you’re seeking expert direction to achieve balance in mind, body, and spirit, I’m here to guide you. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey to better health.
I offer experienced, exceptional care in the heart of Alamo Heights for adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. As Chief Medical Officer at one of the nation’s largest freestanding psychiatric hospitals for over two decades, I bring the same expertise, compassion, and personalized care to Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, Olmos Park, Monte Vista, Dominion and Sonterra areas. If you’re seeking expert direction to achieve balance in mind, body, and spirit, I’m here to guide you. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey to better health.
Dr. David A. Rodriguez is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. He has a Bachelor of Science from St. Mary's University, a Master of Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, a Medical Degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine, a Psychiatry Residency from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and a Child and Adolescent Fellowship from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
Dr. David A. Rodriguez is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. He has a Bachelor of Science from St. Mary's University, a Master of Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, a Medical Degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine, a Psychiatry Residency from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and a Child and Adolescent Fellowship from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Our ideal client is someone seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, or co-occurring conditions, often feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood. They need a safe, non-judgmental space with trusted providers who listen and collaborate transparently. Their goal is to regain control, understand their struggles, and develop effective coping strategies. Ultimately, they seek meaningful progress and a trusted partner in their mental health journey. At Crosstown Mental Health, we’re committed to providing personalized care that builds trust and fosters lasting wellness.
Our ideal client is someone seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, or co-occurring conditions, often feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood. They need a safe, non-judgmental space with trusted providers who listen and collaborate transparently. Their goal is to regain control, understand their struggles, and develop effective coping strategies. Ultimately, they seek meaningful progress and a trusted partner in their mental health journey. At Crosstown Mental Health, we’re committed to providing personalized care that builds trust and fosters lasting wellness.

Melissa Stephenson, NP, PMHNP, is a compassionate and highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to serving the mental health needs of patients across Texas. She provides comprehensive care that goes beyond addressing psychiatric symptoms, considering the full spectrum of factors that contribute to mental wellbeing. By focusing on both mental and physical health, Melissa helps patients manage conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, ensuring that treatment plans are personalized to fit each individual's unique needs.
Melissa Stephenson, NP, PMHNP, is a compassionate and highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to serving the mental health needs of patients across Texas. She provides comprehensive care that goes beyond addressing psychiatric symptoms, considering the full spectrum of factors that contribute to mental wellbeing. By focusing on both mental and physical health, Melissa helps patients manage conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, ensuring that treatment plans are personalized to fit each individual's unique needs.

Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.

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.

Hi, I’m Olga Chaves, a Psychiatric Physician Associate at Alamo Heights Concierge Psychiatry. We are a self-pay practice with a new approach to mental health care. With integrative, personalized, flexible and collaborative philosophy, we aim to empower you to heal, grow, and thrive.
Originally from Colombia, I’ve called San Antonio home for over 21 years. I have over a decade of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. My background in psychology, counseling, and psychiatry, allows me to take a well-rounded, personalized approach to mental health care.
Hi, I’m Olga Chaves, a Psychiatric Physician Associate at Alamo Heights Concierge Psychiatry. We are a self-pay practice with a new approach to mental health care. With integrative, personalized, flexible and collaborative philosophy, we aim to empower you to heal, grow, and thrive.
Originally from Colombia, I’ve called San Antonio home for over 21 years. I have over a decade of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. My background in psychology, counseling, and psychiatry, allows me to take a well-rounded, personalized approach to mental health care.
See more therapy options for 78209
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 78209
40+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 78209 who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
69% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
97% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
92% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 78209 see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 78209?
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.