Psychiatrists in 78212

Photo of Dr. Ami Chatrath @ Wisemind, DO, MBA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ami Chatrath @ Wisemind
Psychiatrist, DO, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
(210) 940-3041 View (210) 940-3041
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(726) 227-2116 View (726) 227-2116
Photo of Dr. Brandi Milmo @ Wisemind, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Brandi Milmo @ Wisemind
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Dr. Brandi Milmo is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Antonio. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the physician-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Dr. Brandi Milmo is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Antonio. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the physician-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.
(210) 794-7827 View (210) 794-7827
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(210) 940-0924 View (210) 940-0924
Photo of Stormy Valdespino, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stormy Valdespino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212  (Online Only)
I am here to assist you become the best version of yourself. The mindset and focus of our sessions is to obtain freedom and happiness that resides within. That vison might include retraining the brain along with medication modalties. I encourage patients to be the center of their mental wellness which includes the freedom to pick the best approach to obtain goals. I am happy to be invited on this exciting journey of placing the pieces back together.
I am here to assist you become the best version of yourself. The mindset and focus of our sessions is to obtain freedom and happiness that resides within. That vison might include retraining the brain along with medication modalties. I encourage patients to be the center of their mental wellness which includes the freedom to pick the best approach to obtain goals. I am happy to be invited on this exciting journey of placing the pieces back together.
(210) 560-5841 View (210) 560-5841
Photo of Dr. Mark Pichot, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Pichot
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Olmos Park, TX 78212
Dr. Pichot is a graduate of the UT Health San Antonio Psychiatry Residency Program and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He was nominated and selected by peer physicians in San Antonio Magazine’s Top Doctors of 2023 in Psychiatry and Super Doctors Rising Stars in 2024 with a special advertising section in the July issue of Texas Monthly. He is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy practicing in Alamo Heights at the Broadway Theater Building. In-person and virtual visits are options if there is availability when you call.
Dr. Pichot is a graduate of the UT Health San Antonio Psychiatry Residency Program and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He was nominated and selected by peer physicians in San Antonio Magazine’s Top Doctors of 2023 in Psychiatry and Super Doctors Rising Stars in 2024 with a special advertising section in the July issue of Texas Monthly. He is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy practicing in Alamo Heights at the Broadway Theater Building. In-person and virtual visits are options if there is availability when you call.
(210) 794-8518 View (210) 794-8518
David A. Rodriguez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
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.
(726) 227-2362 View (726) 227-2362
Photo of Dr. Abigail Talley, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Abigail Talley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
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.
(210) 382-6566 View (210) 382-6566
Photo of Thomas Hageman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thomas Hageman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Thomas (Tom) Hageman graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Previous background also includes a BS in Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh. Mr. Hageman has experience working with adults and adolescents, of all cultural backgrounds, suffering from depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, suicidality and life stressors, along with experience working with those in the LGBTQ community.
Thomas (Tom) Hageman graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Previous background also includes a BS in Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh. Mr. Hageman has experience working with adults and adolescents, of all cultural backgrounds, suffering from depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, suicidality and life stressors, along with experience working with those in the LGBTQ community.
(210) 871-9483 View (210) 871-9483
Photo of Dr. David A. Rodriguez - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 548-6372 View (855) 548-6372
Photo of Mary Ajayi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Ajayi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Mary Ajayi is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing. Mary strives to help patients take back control of their lives through careful treatment options and being able to gain insights into their life dynamic. Achieving mental wellness is a great way to attain personal balance in life. In her spare time, Mary enjoys traveling and trying new things.
Mary Ajayi is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing. Mary strives to help patients take back control of their lives through careful treatment options and being able to gain insights into their life dynamic. Achieving mental wellness is a great way to attain personal balance in life. In her spare time, Mary enjoys traveling and trying new things.
(210) 966-9809 View (210) 966-9809
Photo of Melissa Stephenson, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Stephenson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
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.
(855) 628-5301 View (855) 628-5301
Photo of Brian Hollis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brian Hollis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Brian Hollis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a BSN at George Mason University and an MSN at the University of South Alabama. Brian offers the ability to create a therapeutic rapport. He collects a thorough history for development of a clinical database required for diagnosis and management. During his free time, Brian enjoys attending church, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
Brian Hollis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a BSN at George Mason University and an MSN at the University of South Alabama. Brian offers the ability to create a therapeutic rapport. He collects a thorough history for development of a clinical database required for diagnosis and management. During his free time, Brian enjoys attending church, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
(210) 942-0425 View (210) 942-0425

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Dealing with anxiety, depression, or life transitions can feel isolating and difficult to manage. My ideal client is someone seeking a supportive environment and practical guidance to help them regain control of their mental health. They are ready to work toward positive change and long-term well-being. Together, we will create a personalized plan that fits your unique needs and helps you achieve balance and fulfillment. You deserve care that supports your journey toward a healthier, more peaceful life.
Dealing with anxiety, depression, or life transitions can feel isolating and difficult to manage. My ideal client is someone seeking a supportive environment and practical guidance to help them regain control of their mental health. They are ready to work toward positive change and long-term well-being. Together, we will create a personalized plan that fits your unique needs and helps you achieve balance and fulfillment. You deserve care that supports your journey toward a healthier, more peaceful life.
(210) 774-6784 View (210) 774-6784
Photo of Michael John Solon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael John Solon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
(956) 815-2631 View (956) 815-2631
Photo of Lekisha Caprice Pride, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lekisha Caprice Pride
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 10 and older. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel safe, heard, and supported.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 10 and older. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel safe, heard, and supported.
(469) 936-2099 View (469) 936-2099
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
(726) 237-3655 View (726) 237-3655
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, depression, or significant transitions take center stage. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and seek meaningful change. They are looking for compassionate care that understands their unique experiences and offers practical guidance for healing. Together, we will create a personalized plan that supports your needs and helps you move toward a balanced and fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive.
Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, depression, or significant transitions take center stage. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and seek meaningful change. They are looking for compassionate care that understands their unique experiences and offers practical guidance for healing. Together, we will create a personalized plan that supports your needs and helps you move toward a balanced and fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive.
(726) 227-3367 View (726) 227-3367
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
(210) 759-9387 View (210) 759-9387
Photo of Shazar Khan, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
(726) 727-4777 View (726) 727-4777

See more therapy options for 78212

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78212

10+

Average cost per session

$345

Psychiatrists in 78212 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
92% Trauma and PTSD
77% ADHD
77% Medication Management
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 78212 see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

54% Male
46% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78212?

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.