Psychiatrists in 78599

Photo of Dr. Gerardo Castillo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Gerardo Castillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weslaco, TX 78599
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is trained to provide a wide range of mental health services and behavioral services to patients and families in a variety of settings. I can diagnose, conduct psychotherapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders, behavioral issues, medical organic brain disorders, or substance abuse problems. I am licensed to provide psychosocial and physical assessments of mental health patients, establish treatment plans, and manage patient care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is trained to provide a wide range of mental health services and behavioral services to patients and families in a variety of settings. I can diagnose, conduct psychotherapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders, behavioral issues, medical organic brain disorders, or substance abuse problems. I am licensed to provide psychosocial and physical assessments of mental health patients, establish treatment plans, and manage patient care.
(956) 450-6884 View (956) 450-6884

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ugonna R Okafor, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugonna R Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
(940) 373-6563 View (940) 373-6563
Photo of Ekaete Oyeka, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ekaete Oyeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Eka. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, school, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or others? I believe in each client's uniqueness and ensure a holistic treatment based on individual needs. I specialize in treating psychiatric disorders, including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I am very passionate about contributing to the improvement of the community's health by utilizing an evidence-based approach to mental health care
Hi there, I'm Eka. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, school, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or others? I believe in each client's uniqueness and ensure a holistic treatment based on individual needs. I specialize in treating psychiatric disorders, including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I am very passionate about contributing to the improvement of the community's health by utilizing an evidence-based approach to mental health care
(737) 316-3763 View (737) 316-3763
Photo of Pulcharia Thompson - Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78503
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
(346) 449-4832 View (346) 449-4832
Photo of Michael John Solon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael John Solon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburg, TX 78541
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
(956) 815-2631 View (956) 815-2631
Photo of Peter Formusoh - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE STATE OF TEXAS. MULTIPLE OPTIONS ON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE; AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. Mental and emotional difficulties are real and can greatly limit our functioning. At Holistic health and psychiatry, we believe in a multidimensional approach in managing mental health. Our practitioners collaborate to offer therapeutic interventions including medication management and various therapy approaches to assist individuals with mental health difficulties.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE STATE OF TEXAS. MULTIPLE OPTIONS ON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE; AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. Mental and emotional difficulties are real and can greatly limit our functioning. At Holistic health and psychiatry, we believe in a multidimensional approach in managing mental health. Our practitioners collaborate to offer therapeutic interventions including medication management and various therapy approaches to assist individuals with mental health difficulties.
(806) 203-5793 View (806) 203-5793
Photo of Deena Velazquez Dong- Psychiatry Texas, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deena Velazquez Dong- Psychiatry Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edinburg, TX 78541
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and often at your wits' end? Struggling to be your best self in your career, educational pursuit, or family life (spouse/partner/parent)? Difficulty staying focused, making careless mistakes, racing thoughts, or trouble turning your brain off at night? Finding yourself feeling guilty or ashamed of constantly feeling on edge, irritable, or lashing out at others? Exhausted, unmotivated, sad, and just 'meh' about things? Let's talk about getting you back on track to being your optimal self.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and often at your wits' end? Struggling to be your best self in your career, educational pursuit, or family life (spouse/partner/parent)? Difficulty staying focused, making careless mistakes, racing thoughts, or trouble turning your brain off at night? Finding yourself feeling guilty or ashamed of constantly feeling on edge, irritable, or lashing out at others? Exhausted, unmotivated, sad, and just 'meh' about things? Let's talk about getting you back on track to being your optimal self.
(512) 982-0580 View (512) 982-0580
Photo of Ajibola Fat-Anthony - Unique Behavioral Clinic, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Unique Behavioral Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose and treat patient from age 6-99 years old. At Unique Behavioral Clinic, we prioritize your mental well-being by providing compassionate mental health care in a timely manner so that you can focus on your daily tasks.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose and treat patient from age 6-99 years old. At Unique Behavioral Clinic, we prioritize your mental well-being by providing compassionate mental health care in a timely manner so that you can focus on your daily tasks.
(956) 394-0369 View (956) 394-0369
Photo of Dr. Chipo Ndlovu, PhD , NPD-BC, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Chipo Ndlovu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD , NPD-BC, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
Here at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness, we are committed to your mental well-being. We provide comprehensive and person-centered psychiatric mental health services including psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Our mission at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness is to provide behavioral health services to Texans, including immigrant / international populations and underserved populations.
Here at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness, we are committed to your mental well-being. We provide comprehensive and person-centered psychiatric mental health services including psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Our mission at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness is to provide behavioral health services to Texans, including immigrant / international populations and underserved populations.
(956) 436-5336 View (956) 436-5336
Photo of Dr. Velma Vega-Hughes, DNP, APRN , PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Velma Vega-Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Harlingen, TX 78550
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who utilizes theoretical, scientific, and clinical knowledge for diagnosing mental illnesses, interpreting data, and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. I use evidence-based practice using a holistic approach to provide healing, wellness, and recovery through innovative, person-centered, and individualized care. The therapeutic services I offer provide a warm, non-biased, and nurturing environment for individuals and families to achieve optimal mental health. MIND-BODY-SOUL
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who utilizes theoretical, scientific, and clinical knowledge for diagnosing mental illnesses, interpreting data, and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. I use evidence-based practice using a holistic approach to provide healing, wellness, and recovery through innovative, person-centered, and individualized care. The therapeutic services I offer provide a warm, non-biased, and nurturing environment for individuals and families to achieve optimal mental health. MIND-BODY-SOUL
(956) 230-8880 View (956) 230-8880
Photo of Alexandra Elisabeth Brotzman, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexandra Elisabeth Brotzman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Beginning your journey towards healing and personal growth is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding life experiences. I am committed to helping you find your way through the challenges in order to meet your wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner I focus on evidence based practice and holistic treatment to assist my patients in feeling like themselves again. I have been a family nurse practitioner since 2015, and received my post-graduate degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in 2021 in order to fully diagnose and treat the patient population I serve.
Beginning your journey towards healing and personal growth is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding life experiences. I am committed to helping you find your way through the challenges in order to meet your wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner I focus on evidence based practice and holistic treatment to assist my patients in feeling like themselves again. I have been a family nurse practitioner since 2015, and received my post-graduate degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in 2021 in order to fully diagnose and treat the patient population I serve.
(956) 363-4320 View (956) 363-4320
Photo of Emmanuella Edekobi, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emmanuella Edekobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be daunting and sometimes it's hard to navigate healthcare especially if you feel chaotic, are unable to enjoy things, don't feel yourself, expect the worst to happen, zone out or hyperfocus or feel extra sensitive. Chat with us today and see if we can help. My approach is Whole-listic incorporating the mind, body and spirit, empathy and understanding. I focus mostly on building strong therapeutic relationship with my patients. We can work together towards a fulfilling life.
My goal is to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be daunting and sometimes it's hard to navigate healthcare especially if you feel chaotic, are unable to enjoy things, don't feel yourself, expect the worst to happen, zone out or hyperfocus or feel extra sensitive. Chat with us today and see if we can help. My approach is Whole-listic incorporating the mind, body and spirit, empathy and understanding. I focus mostly on building strong therapeutic relationship with my patients. We can work together towards a fulfilling life.
(936) 241-4903 View (936) 241-4903
Photo of Lorena E Reyna - Reyna Psychiatry PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Reyna Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501
Hi, Welcome to my profile! I am Dr. Lorena E. Reyna, a double-board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist. My practice offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. I have practiced in various clinical settings, have taken care of patients from all ages, and have experience in treating severe mental illness. My approach is rooted in providing individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient’s unique needs. I strive to understand the intricacies of each patient and their mental health journey.
Hi, Welcome to my profile! I am Dr. Lorena E. Reyna, a double-board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist. My practice offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. I have practiced in various clinical settings, have taken care of patients from all ages, and have experience in treating severe mental illness. My approach is rooted in providing individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient’s unique needs. I strive to understand the intricacies of each patient and their mental health journey.
(956) 276-8139 View (956) 276-8139
Photo of Dr. Rita McCallan, DNP, APRN , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Rita McCallan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78504
Mental health struggles are extremely common, yet they often go untreated, making it nearly impossible for individuals to lead a productive life. These issues can be difficult to manage privately, and it is important to recognize that they are not a sign of weakness, but rather a unique response to what has happened or is happening to a person. Unfortunately, many people fight this battle alone.
Mental health struggles are extremely common, yet they often go untreated, making it nearly impossible for individuals to lead a productive life. These issues can be difficult to manage privately, and it is important to recognize that they are not a sign of weakness, but rather a unique response to what has happened or is happening to a person. Unfortunately, many people fight this battle alone.
(956) 306-8703 View (956) 306-8703
Photo of Ugonna Okafor, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugonna Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
(956) 628-4118 View (956) 628-4118
Photo of Daniel Lozano - RGV Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
RGV Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weslaco, TX 78596
RGV Psychiatry, PLLC is an in-person and televideo Adult Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic that opened in 2023 and is operated by an RGV-Native Psychiatrist, Daniel Lozano, M.D. Our physical location is in Weslaco, Texas, where private visits can be scheduled by appointment only.
RGV Psychiatry, PLLC is an in-person and televideo Adult Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic that opened in 2023 and is operated by an RGV-Native Psychiatrist, Daniel Lozano, M.D. Our physical location is in Weslaco, Texas, where private visits can be scheduled by appointment only.
(956) 450-8298 View (956) 450-8298
Photo of Yemi Adebowale - Integrated Minds Wellness Center, DNP, APRN, PMHMPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrated Minds Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHMPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care. Our team prides itself in our expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. We take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care. Our team prides itself in our expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. We take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
(956) 329-6273 View (956) 329-6273
Photo of Ricardo A Mendiola, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ricardo A Mendiola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78504
NOV. 2024 - Accepting New Patients - I'm Board Certified as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health in Multi-States (Texas, Rhode Island, Washington, Colorado, and New Hampshire), I'm bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients with compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder..
NOV. 2024 - Accepting New Patients - I'm Board Certified as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health in Multi-States (Texas, Rhode Island, Washington, Colorado, and New Hampshire), I'm bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients with compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder..
(956) 516-7304 View (956) 516-7304
Photo of Raul Anthony Correa - Novelty Behavioral Health, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Novelty Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edinburg, TX 78539
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
(956) 303-1949 View (956) 303-1949
Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
(956) 948-6566 View (956) 948-6566

See more therapy options for 78599

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78599

< 10

Psychiatrists in 78599 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Grief

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 78599 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78599?

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.