Psychiatrists in 78257

Strive Psychiatry encourages patients to STRIVE to be courageous, connected, and understanding about mental health. It is the beginning journey of hope to being a better you. Advocating for bringing back medicine the way it used to be with direct patient care. Dr. Cavazos has been practicing in san antonio for 6 years and has over a decade of professional experience in mental health. Please visit www.strivepsychiatry.com for further information. Please schedule https://app.luminello.com/javencavazosmd/form
Strive Psychiatry encourages patients to STRIVE to be courageous, connected, and understanding about mental health. It is the beginning journey of hope to being a better you. Advocating for bringing back medicine the way it used to be with direct patient care. Dr. Cavazos has been practicing in san antonio for 6 years and has over a decade of professional experience in mental health. Please visit www.strivepsychiatry.com for further information. Please schedule https://app.luminello.com/javencavazosmd/form
My ideal client is an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or mood disorders, seeking relief and emotional balance. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck in negative patterns, or unable to manage daily stress. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, learn coping strategies, and regain control of their mental health. Their goal is to heal, build resilience, and develop healthier thought patterns. They want to feel empowered, improve relationships, and enhance their overall well-being so they can live with confidence and stability.
My ideal client is an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or mood disorders, seeking relief and emotional balance. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck in negative patterns, or unable to manage daily stress. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, learn coping strategies, and regain control of their mental health. Their goal is to heal, build resilience, and develop healthier thought patterns. They want to feel empowered, improve relationships, and enhance their overall well-being so they can live with confidence and stability.

Dr. Christine Joy is a double board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist currently accepting new patients with same week availability. A San Antonio native and third-generation healthcare professional, Dr. Joy leads her psychiatric practice with the belief that the doctor-patient relationship is fundamental for healing. She has over ten years of experience, including expertise with elderly, medically-complex, and veteran populations.
Dr. Christine Joy is a double board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist currently accepting new patients with same week availability. A San Antonio native and third-generation healthcare professional, Dr. Joy leads her psychiatric practice with the belief that the doctor-patient relationship is fundamental for healing. She has over ten years of experience, including expertise with elderly, medically-complex, and veteran populations.

Our clinic is now accepting all major insurances for medication management! Call now to schedule same day appointments at our San Antonio Medical Center location. Dr. Johnston specializes in the use of cutting edge evidence based treatments for depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other treatment-resistant disorders. Using treatments like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, IV and IM Ketamine, Inhaled Esketamine (Spravato), and ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) we have been able to help many in our community that had lost hope for getting better. Many of our treatments are covered by insurance.
Our clinic is now accepting all major insurances for medication management! Call now to schedule same day appointments at our San Antonio Medical Center location. Dr. Johnston specializes in the use of cutting edge evidence based treatments for depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other treatment-resistant disorders. Using treatments like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, IV and IM Ketamine, Inhaled Esketamine (Spravato), and ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) we have been able to help many in our community that had lost hope for getting better. Many of our treatments are covered by insurance.

***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE SAME WEEK*** PA Estioko is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in the field of psychiatry. He completed his medical training at California Baptist University and took special interest in the treatment of psychiatric disorders during his clinical year. He recognized the need for mental health services across various specialties and is excited to join Phoenix Mental Health to help increase accessibility in San Antonio, TX.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE SAME WEEK*** PA Estioko is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in the field of psychiatry. He completed his medical training at California Baptist University and took special interest in the treatment of psychiatric disorders during his clinical year. He recognized the need for mental health services across various specialties and is excited to join Phoenix Mental Health to help increase accessibility in San Antonio, TX.

Ashley Infante is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new patients for medication management! NP Infante, with Phoenix Mental Health, is credentialed with all major insurance providers and is currently offering same day appointments for new patients. NP Infante earned a Master’s degree from the University of Southern Indiana, and Bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech Health Science Center.
Ashley Infante is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new patients for medication management! NP Infante, with Phoenix Mental Health, is credentialed with all major insurance providers and is currently offering same day appointments for new patients. NP Infante earned a Master’s degree from the University of Southern Indiana, and Bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech Health Science Center.

My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma-related issues, seeking a compassionate, non-judgmental space for healing. They need support in navigating life transitions, managing their mental health, and building emotional resilience. Their goal is to find peace, clarity, and balance, empowering them to take control of their well-being and improve their quality of life. They want to feel heard, understood, and equipped with practical tools for lasting change.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma-related issues, seeking a compassionate, non-judgmental space for healing. They need support in navigating life transitions, managing their mental health, and building emotional resilience. Their goal is to find peace, clarity, and balance, empowering them to take control of their well-being and improve their quality of life. They want to feel heard, understood, and equipped with practical tools for lasting change.

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!

I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.

Dr. Quiroga is excited to bring her Direct Care Psychiatric Practice to the Stone Oak area. With this model, Insurance is not accepted, and payment is made directly to the office at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care that is not limited in appointment time and frequency by the insurance carrier. The medical record remains confidential, unless you wish to share that information with your insurance. Please refer to the rates section of our website for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits. Initial consultation- $550 (up to 90 min), Follow-up visit- $225 (up to 25 min).
Dr. Quiroga is excited to bring her Direct Care Psychiatric Practice to the Stone Oak area. With this model, Insurance is not accepted, and payment is made directly to the office at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care that is not limited in appointment time and frequency by the insurance carrier. The medical record remains confidential, unless you wish to share that information with your insurance. Please refer to the rates section of our website for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits. Initial consultation- $550 (up to 90 min), Follow-up visit- $225 (up to 25 min).

Dr. Omar Ali is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. He went to Medical School at Texas Tech University School of Medicine and completed his Residency at LSU-Ochsner Adult Psychiatry Program. Dr. Ali strives to provide a collaborative and personalized approach in which we work together to find a way forward to living the best quality of life possible. Dr. Ali focuses on providing psychopharmacologic medication management using evidence-based recommendations.
Dr. Omar Ali is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. He went to Medical School at Texas Tech University School of Medicine and completed his Residency at LSU-Ochsner Adult Psychiatry Program. Dr. Ali strives to provide a collaborative and personalized approach in which we work together to find a way forward to living the best quality of life possible. Dr. Ali focuses on providing psychopharmacologic medication management using evidence-based recommendations.

Dr. Raven Aleman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and from University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Most recently, she earned a Doctorate in Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University with an emphasis in Psychiatric Mental Health. Raven takes a collaborative approach and encourages patients to be active participants in their care. Raven enjoys problem-solving with patients and discovering what motivates them to live and be well.
Dr. Raven Aleman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and from University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Most recently, she earned a Doctorate in Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University with an emphasis in Psychiatric Mental Health. Raven takes a collaborative approach and encourages patients to be active participants in their care. Raven enjoys problem-solving with patients and discovering what motivates them to live and be well.

Dr. Moore specializes in high functioning adults already diagnosed with ADD/ADHD by a psychiatrist, psychologist or neurologist. Ideal for those in need of a new psychiatrist due to moving, aging out of a pediatric clinic or when their psychiatrist retires. 1st appt is an in-office full diagnostic interview. Virtual sessions may be available between office visits. Service options include psychotherapy, behavioral management, medication management, and/or peer/professional consultation. Dr. Moore also has a special focus in helping patients without ADD/ADHD seeking psychotherapy without medication.
Dr. Moore specializes in high functioning adults already diagnosed with ADD/ADHD by a psychiatrist, psychologist or neurologist. Ideal for those in need of a new psychiatrist due to moving, aging out of a pediatric clinic or when their psychiatrist retires. 1st appt is an in-office full diagnostic interview. Virtual sessions may be available between office visits. Service options include psychotherapy, behavioral management, medication management, and/or peer/professional consultation. Dr. Moore also has a special focus in helping patients without ADD/ADHD seeking psychotherapy without medication.

Preety Khanna, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping clients navigate their mental health journey with empathy and comprehensive care. Practicing at LifeStance Health, she serves patients across Texas, focusing on treating individuals with depression, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. Preety’s holistic approach encompasses not only mental health disorders but also considers the overall wellbeing, emotional state, and environmental factors of her clients. She aims to foster a more informed and compassionate society regarding psychiatric mental health needs.
Preety Khanna, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping clients navigate their mental health journey with empathy and comprehensive care. Practicing at LifeStance Health, she serves patients across Texas, focusing on treating individuals with depression, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. Preety’s holistic approach encompasses not only mental health disorders but also considers the overall wellbeing, emotional state, and environmental factors of her clients. She aims to foster a more informed and compassionate society regarding psychiatric mental health needs.

An individual struggling with depression, anxiety, or mood disorders often faces overwhelming feelings of sadness, fear, and emotional instability. They may experience difficulty in daily functioning, affecting relationships, work, and self-esteem. Their needs include a safe space to express their emotions, effective strategies, and a personalized treatment plan that may involve therapy and medication. Goals typically focus on regaining control over their emotions, improving overall quality of life, and fostering resilience. Ultimately, they seek understanding, support, and practical tools to navigate life's challenges.
An individual struggling with depression, anxiety, or mood disorders often faces overwhelming feelings of sadness, fear, and emotional instability. They may experience difficulty in daily functioning, affecting relationships, work, and self-esteem. Their needs include a safe space to express their emotions, effective strategies, and a personalized treatment plan that may involve therapy and medication. Goals typically focus on regaining control over their emotions, improving overall quality of life, and fostering resilience. Ultimately, they seek understanding, support, and practical tools to navigate life's challenges.
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.

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.

Do you have brain fog, irritability, or mood swings? Feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Is it hard to enjoy everyday activities? Dread getting out of bed or fear not being good enough? Are you tired of medications not working and want an alternative? I would love to help those who struggle with mental illness and trauma overcome crippling symptoms and reclaim their confidence, purpose, and joy. I also help those with metabolic issues and provide lifestyle counseling and guidance including Ketogenic Therapy. Through my holistic approach, we can uncover any root causes of your symptoms and treat them appropriately.
Do you have brain fog, irritability, or mood swings? Feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Is it hard to enjoy everyday activities? Dread getting out of bed or fear not being good enough? Are you tired of medications not working and want an alternative? I would love to help those who struggle with mental illness and trauma overcome crippling symptoms and reclaim their confidence, purpose, and joy. I also help those with metabolic issues and provide lifestyle counseling and guidance including Ketogenic Therapy. Through my holistic approach, we can uncover any root causes of your symptoms and treat them appropriately.

Victoria Walter-Etoh is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. Victoria utilizes a compassionate and empathetic approach in treating her patients. Building rapport and establishing a strong therapeutic working relationship is very important to her. Victoria believes in developing and implementing a treatment plan for each patient using a patient-centered and evidence-based model. And most importantly, she strives to treat each person with strict confidentiality, dignity, and respect. Outside of work, Victoria enjoys traveling, watching movies, and reading.
Victoria Walter-Etoh is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. Victoria utilizes a compassionate and empathetic approach in treating her patients. Building rapport and establishing a strong therapeutic working relationship is very important to her. Victoria believes in developing and implementing a treatment plan for each patient using a patient-centered and evidence-based model. And most importantly, she strives to treat each person with strict confidentiality, dignity, and respect. Outside of work, Victoria enjoys traveling, watching movies, and reading.

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.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 78257
20+
Average cost per session
$190
Psychiatrists in 78257 who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Medication Management |
59% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 78257 see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 78257?
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.