Psychiatrists in 78260

Ephraim Fombo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
(726) 207-9293 View (726) 207-9293
Photo of Melissa Deuter - Melissa Deuter, MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care, MD, Psychiatrist
Melissa Deuter, MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
(210) 871-0188 View (210) 871-0188
Photo of Caroline Horton, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Caroline Horton
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
Caroline is a Physician Assistant, nationally certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She received a Master in Physician Assistant Studies at James Madison University in Virginia and is licensed to practice in the state of TX by the Texas Medical Board. She has experience in Emergency Medicine and the care of adults and children with acute and chronic mental health disorders in the ER setting. She is committed to helping provide mental health services to the people of San Antonio and surrounding communities that allows more people to access the care they need in an outpatient setting.
Caroline is a Physician Assistant, nationally certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She received a Master in Physician Assistant Studies at James Madison University in Virginia and is licensed to practice in the state of TX by the Texas Medical Board. She has experience in Emergency Medicine and the care of adults and children with acute and chronic mental health disorders in the ER setting. She is committed to helping provide mental health services to the people of San Antonio and surrounding communities that allows more people to access the care they need in an outpatient setting.
(210) 774-6364 View (210) 774-6364
Photo of Dr. Jeanette Quiroga - Ascend Psychiatric Specialty Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Ascend Psychiatric Specialty Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
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).
(210) 702-3143 View (210) 702-3143
Photo of Raven Aleman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Raven Aleman
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
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.
(830) 254-7953 View (830) 254-7953
Photo of John Michael Adams, MD, Psychiatrist
John Michael Adams
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260
Our clinic will serve patients aged 4 years old through college age. The practice will serve families who deal with psychiatric concerns of mood, disruptive behaviors, and difficulties in learning and school performance. While the patient is always the primary focus of any treatment, the family as a whole will be supported and counseled in ways to best deal with the stressors they face.
Our clinic will serve patients aged 4 years old through college age. The practice will serve families who deal with psychiatric concerns of mood, disruptive behaviors, and difficulties in learning and school performance. While the patient is always the primary focus of any treatment, the family as a whole will be supported and counseled in ways to best deal with the stressors they face.
(210) 879-8927 View (210) 879-8927
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
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 John Enriquez, MD, Psychiatrist
John Enriquez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. John Enriquez is a psychiatrist, a physician for mental health disorders. He has over 43 years of experience in the field of medicine. He graduated from medical school with his medical degree in 1975. Post-graduate training at LA County USC Medical Center. Dr. John N. Enriquez is licensed to practice by the state board in Texas and is Board Certified in Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry. He helps with the psychological well-being of men and women, with an ability to identify and treat all of the various types of Psychiatric Illness.
Dr. John Enriquez is a psychiatrist, a physician for mental health disorders. He has over 43 years of experience in the field of medicine. He graduated from medical school with his medical degree in 1975. Post-graduate training at LA County USC Medical Center. Dr. John N. Enriquez is licensed to practice by the state board in Texas and is Board Certified in Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry. He helps with the psychological well-being of men and women, with an ability to identify and treat all of the various types of Psychiatric Illness.
(210) 940-4228 View (210) 940-4228
Photo of Margaret Betanco, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Betanco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
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.
(708) 840-8649 View (708) 840-8649
Photo of Omar Ali, MD, Psychiatrist
Omar Ali
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
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. He understands that seeking mental health treatment can be intimidating and anxiety provoking for many, and some may never seek help for these reasons.
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. He understands that seeking mental health treatment can be intimidating and anxiety provoking for many, and some may never seek help for these reasons.
(830) 262-2217 View (830) 262-2217
Photo of Victoria Walter-Etoh, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Walter-Etoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
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.
(210) 942-7877 View (210) 942-7877
Photo of Preety Khanna, DNP,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse
Preety Khanna
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
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.
(830) 271-4299 View (830) 271-4299
Photo of Maame S Obiri-Boateng, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maame S Obiri-Boateng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
August 19, 2024: Accepting new clients within 24 hours or sooner. Late appointments available. Are you in a cyclical rotation trying to manage your life complicated by sadness, irritability, anxiety, poor concentration, mood swings, irritability, struggling with relationships, work and health? please reach out to us to see how a tailored medication regimen may help you get back on track by clicking on the link in bio to book your next appointment or calling 2104464451 ext 101. Thank you
August 19, 2024: Accepting new clients within 24 hours or sooner. Late appointments available. Are you in a cyclical rotation trying to manage your life complicated by sadness, irritability, anxiety, poor concentration, mood swings, irritability, struggling with relationships, work and health? please reach out to us to see how a tailored medication regimen may help you get back on track by clicking on the link in bio to book your next appointment or calling 2104464451 ext 101. Thank you
(210) 939-8735 View (210) 939-8735

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. James T. Fuqua - Board Certified Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. James T. Fuqua - Board Certified Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients. Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible. Visit our website for more information!
Accepting new patients. Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible. Visit our website for more information!
(210) 880-2350 View (210) 880-2350
Photo of Lorraine Garcia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lorraine Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Chikwelu Christian Umeh, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chikwelu Christian Umeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Christian Umeh is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). He received his Master of Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) from the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore. He obtained Post-Masters Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner from Drexel University, Philadelphia. After extensive experience ranging from critical care medicine, emergency medicine and Trauma-Surgical program, he proceeded to University of Texas Rio Grande Valley for Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
Christian Umeh is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). He received his Master of Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) from the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore. He obtained Post-Masters Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner from Drexel University, Philadelphia. After extensive experience ranging from critical care medicine, emergency medicine and Trauma-Surgical program, he proceeded to University of Texas Rio Grande Valley for Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
(210) 361-2592 View (210) 361-2592
Photo of Dr. Mark Pichot, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Pichot
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
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
Photo of Paul R. Whitelock - Paul R. Whitelock, M.D. & Associates, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul R. Whitelock, M.D. & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over 4 decades of psychiatric experience, we approach each patients’ care with expertise, respect and kindness. From young children to senior citizens, we provide personal and in-depth evaluation and expert medication management in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Offices located in Austin, San Marcos & Temple Texas!
With over 4 decades of psychiatric experience, we approach each patients’ care with expertise, respect and kindness. From young children to senior citizens, we provide personal and in-depth evaluation and expert medication management in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Offices located in Austin, San Marcos & Temple Texas!
(512) 572-4037 View (512) 572-4037
Photo of Dr. Dolani Ajanaku, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Dolani Ajanaku
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you want personalized psychiatric care from a medical doctor with robust training and experience, you are in the right place. I am a Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent psychiatry. Using a holistic approach I provide you with treatment options that are fitted best to your goals and priorities. That includes thorough psychiatric evaluation, appropriated medical workup, tailored follow up sessions, discussions on lifestyle changes, therapy and medication management.
If you want personalized psychiatric care from a medical doctor with robust training and experience, you are in the right place. I am a Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent psychiatry. Using a holistic approach I provide you with treatment options that are fitted best to your goals and priorities. That includes thorough psychiatric evaluation, appropriated medical workup, tailored follow up sessions, discussions on lifestyle changes, therapy and medication management.
(956) 265-3223 View (956) 265-3223
Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, MSN, APRN,  PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
(469) 415-1525 View (469) 415-1525

See more therapy options for 78260

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78260

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 78260 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
92% Bipolar Disorder
85% Sleep or Insomnia
77% ADHD
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
90% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 78260 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78260?

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.