Psychiatrists in 78249

Photo of Maame S Obiri-Boateng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Maame S Obiri-Boateng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Maame, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in helping individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and OCD. If you find yourself caught in a cycle of sadness, irritability, anxiety, poor concentration, or mood swings, it’s time to take the first step towards healing. I understand how difficult it can be to balance relationships, work, and health while feeling mentally overwhelmed. My goal is to help you find relief from these burdens and regain a sense of control over your life through tailored psychiatric care.
My name is Maame, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in helping individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and OCD. If you find yourself caught in a cycle of sadness, irritability, anxiety, poor concentration, or mood swings, it’s time to take the first step towards healing. I understand how difficult it can be to balance relationships, work, and health while feeling mentally overwhelmed. My goal is to help you find relief from these burdens and regain a sense of control over your life through tailored psychiatric care.
(210) 939-8735 View (210) 939-8735
Photo of Aaron Cummins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PMHNP
Aaron Cummins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PMHNP
San Antonio, TX 78249
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
(210) 972-0736 View (210) 972-0736
Photo of Angel Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angel Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Antonio, TX 78249
I am here to help your child facing behavioral, emotional, or psychological challenges. Your child might be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions. I understand, as a parent, you are seeking compassionate and effective care to help manage your child's symptoms and improve their overall well-being. I provide a collaborative, supportive environment where you and your child feel understood and empowered to reach your child's full potential. Your ultimate goal is to achieve mental and emotional stability, academic success, and improved family dynamics and I am here to help on that journey.
I am here to help your child facing behavioral, emotional, or psychological challenges. Your child might be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions. I understand, as a parent, you are seeking compassionate and effective care to help manage your child's symptoms and improve their overall well-being. I provide a collaborative, supportive environment where you and your child feel understood and empowered to reach your child's full potential. Your ultimate goal is to achieve mental and emotional stability, academic success, and improved family dynamics and I am here to help on that journey.
(210) 405-7164 View (210) 405-7164
Photo of Sarah Casola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Casola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! Do you feel overwhelmed by sadness or constant worry? Are past traumas affecting your ability to move forward? Do obsessive thoughts or behaviors seem to control your life? I specialize in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and OCD. My goal is to support you in regaining control, finding relief, and building emotional well-being through a compassionate, solution-focused approach. Together, we can create a plan that combines therapy and medication management to help you feel more balanced, motivated, and hopeful for the future. Let's work together toward your healing and growth.
Hello! Do you feel overwhelmed by sadness or constant worry? Are past traumas affecting your ability to move forward? Do obsessive thoughts or behaviors seem to control your life? I specialize in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and OCD. My goal is to support you in regaining control, finding relief, and building emotional well-being through a compassionate, solution-focused approach. Together, we can create a plan that combines therapy and medication management to help you feel more balanced, motivated, and hopeful for the future. Let's work together toward your healing and growth.
(210) 796-5030 View (210) 796-5030
Photo of Dr. Susan Wynne, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Susan Wynne
Psychiatrist, MD
San Antonio, TX 78249
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
(210) 615-8900 View (210) 615-8900
Photo of Lorraine Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lorraine Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Antonio, TX 78249
The most important attribute that I look for in my clients is trust. Trusting my approach at treating patients who suffer from depression due to chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and other mood disorders. My unique approach at treating patients is through medication management, Spravato, and Ketamine treatments using evidence-base research. Provider-patient trust allows my patients to open up and be honest without judgement, making it easier for me as your provider to administer therapeutic quality care and relationships. Every patient has unique needs and I want to help my patient live their best quality of life.
The most important attribute that I look for in my clients is trust. Trusting my approach at treating patients who suffer from depression due to chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and other mood disorders. My unique approach at treating patients is through medication management, Spravato, and Ketamine treatments using evidence-base research. Provider-patient trust allows my patients to open up and be honest without judgement, making it easier for me as your provider to administer therapeutic quality care and relationships. Every patient has unique needs and I want to help my patient live their best quality of life.
(210) 942-9575 View (210) 942-9575
Photo of Maame Obiri-Boateng - Safe Space Healthcare Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Safe Space Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Shavano Park, TX 78249
Accepting new patients. Evenings and weekends available online and in-person medication management! We take Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, Oxford, Optum, United Healthcare. If you want a provider who listens to you, collaborates with you, and provides a more holistic treatment approach, please reach out to us! We will be happy to assist. We specialize in many psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, and bipolar. Safe Space is about being calm, receptive, in the moment and non judgmental. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Accepting new patients. Evenings and weekends available online and in-person medication management! We take Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, Oxford, Optum, United Healthcare. If you want a provider who listens to you, collaborates with you, and provides a more holistic treatment approach, please reach out to us! We will be happy to assist. We specialize in many psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, and bipolar. Safe Space is about being calm, receptive, in the moment and non judgmental. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!
(210) 903-9567 x101 View (210) 903-9567 x101
Photo of Dee Swart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Dee Swart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249
As a Veteran, I acknowledge the Warrior ethos that exists in all humans, especially when it comes to mental health and wellness. i am here to work with you, as a team, to achieve the goals that you aspire for yourself. It can range from not being 'that' person anymore to improving my relationships with loved ones. I am also here to help kids and teens be the best version of themselves, however they identify. We can achieve these things better, together.
As a Veteran, I acknowledge the Warrior ethos that exists in all humans, especially when it comes to mental health and wellness. i am here to work with you, as a team, to achieve the goals that you aspire for yourself. It can range from not being 'that' person anymore to improving my relationships with loved ones. I am also here to help kids and teens be the best version of themselves, however they identify. We can achieve these things better, together.
(830) 476-7388 View (830) 476-7388
Photo of Lindsey O'Neill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Lindsey O'Neill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
(254) 323-8359 View (254) 323-8359
Photo of Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD
Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD
San Antonio, TX 78249
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
(972) 945-0624 View (972) 945-0624
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
(830) 376-2936 View (830) 376-2936
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSM, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSM, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(726) 232-5757 View (726) 232-5757
Photo of Carina Gutierrez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carina Gutierrez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am here to make your mental health my top priority. Together, we'll work toward achieving your best self in a safe, compassionate, and supportive space.
As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am here to make your mental health my top priority. Together, we'll work toward achieving your best self in a safe, compassionate, and supportive space.
(512) 859-6556 View (512) 859-6556
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(726) 237-3655 View (726) 237-3655
Photo of Dr. Yejide Oludare - Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Oludare is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing telemedicine appointments to Texas and New Mexico residents. Yejide graduated with a doctorate degree from Arkansas State University and have over 15 years of clinical experience serving individuals with mental illness. Dr. Oludare is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners and the state of New Mexico as an Advanced Practice Nurse. She takes pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care for her clients.
Dr. Oludare is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing telemedicine appointments to Texas and New Mexico residents. Yejide graduated with a doctorate degree from Arkansas State University and have over 15 years of clinical experience serving individuals with mental illness. Dr. Oludare is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners and the state of New Mexico as an Advanced Practice Nurse. She takes pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care for her clients.
(210) 756-3095 View (210) 756-3095
Photo of Farheen Makani - Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Aura Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Serves Area
At Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life for our clients by helping them overcome Mental and Emotional barriers and truly Thrive. We are committed to Supporting, Educating, and Empowering individuals and their families through Compassionate Care in a Safe, Welcoming Environment. Our patient-focused approach prioritizes Trust, Respect, and the Highest Standards of psychiatric care. We believe everyone deserves to feel Heard, Supported, and Equipped to lead fulfilling lives. Immediate appointments available! Call us today at 469 599 AURA
At Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life for our clients by helping them overcome Mental and Emotional barriers and truly Thrive. We are committed to Supporting, Educating, and Empowering individuals and their families through Compassionate Care in a Safe, Welcoming Environment. Our patient-focused approach prioritizes Trust, Respect, and the Highest Standards of psychiatric care. We believe everyone deserves to feel Heard, Supported, and Equipped to lead fulfilling lives. Immediate appointments available! Call us today at 469 599 AURA
(210) 972-8488 View (210) 972-8488
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(210) 361-6840 View (210) 361-6840
Photo of Lindsey Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(726) 238-4631 View (726) 238-4631
Photo of Kassiah Nabrovskis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Kassiah Nabrovskis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hello! My passion lies in Integrative & Functional Psychiatry for true healing and optimal outcomes. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, a prior Family NP, a USAF veteran, and a certified Yoga instructor & Reiki practitioner. My unique background supports a holistic approach, integrating medical standard of care with lifestyle modifications, functional medicine testing, herbal supplements, nutraceuticals, and mind-body modalities. I love empowering and helping others reclaim their mental well-being and overall health. Please Note: As a telehealth only provider, I do not prescribe controlled substances.
Hello! My passion lies in Integrative & Functional Psychiatry for true healing and optimal outcomes. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, a prior Family NP, a USAF veteran, and a certified Yoga instructor & Reiki practitioner. My unique background supports a holistic approach, integrating medical standard of care with lifestyle modifications, functional medicine testing, herbal supplements, nutraceuticals, and mind-body modalities. I love empowering and helping others reclaim their mental well-being and overall health. Please Note: As a telehealth only provider, I do not prescribe controlled substances.
(737) 367-0611 View (737) 367-0611
Photo of Shazar Khan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(726) 727-4777 View (726) 727-4777

See more therapy options for 78249

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78249

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 78249 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
96% Depression
96% Medication Management
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Bipolar Disorder
81% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Cigna and Evernorth
92% Aetna
84% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 78249 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78249?

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.