Psychiatrists in 78624

Photo of Michelle Cantu - Michelle L Cantu, MD, PA, Psychiatrist, MD
Michelle L Cantu, MD, PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Whether you are new to mental health or have a history of mental health issues, you are likely looking for a supportive environment, diagnostic clarification, and knowledge regarding all treatment options. You are needing a provider who will listen to your concerns and get to know you as a person. If you are the parent of a child with mental health issues, you are seeking a place where your child will feel comfortable and nurtured. You are wanting a provider who will spend the time getting to know your child and family dynamic, while providing your child with the quality care they would want for their own children.
Whether you are new to mental health or have a history of mental health issues, you are likely looking for a supportive environment, diagnostic clarification, and knowledge regarding all treatment options. You are needing a provider who will listen to your concerns and get to know you as a person. If you are the parent of a child with mental health issues, you are seeking a place where your child will feel comfortable and nurtured. You are wanting a provider who will spend the time getting to know your child and family dynamic, while providing your child with the quality care they would want for their own children.
(210) 615-5230 View (210) 615-5230
Photo of Dr. Susan Wynne, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Susan Wynne
Psychiatrist, MD
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
(210) 615-8900 View (210) 615-8900
Photo of Christina Exum - Soulwork Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Soulwork Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Christina Exum and I am a therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from UT Health in San Antonio Texas and have been in practice since 2019. I am also an Integrative Nutritional Health Coach. I work at a deep level with individuals in therapy who want to break out of unhelpful patterns affecting their lives in order to awaken unrealized vitality, potential, and creativity. I prescribe psychiatric medications when needed.
Hello! My name is Christina Exum and I am a therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from UT Health in San Antonio Texas and have been in practice since 2019. I am also an Integrative Nutritional Health Coach. I work at a deep level with individuals in therapy who want to break out of unhelpful patterns affecting their lives in order to awaken unrealized vitality, potential, and creativity. I prescribe psychiatric medications when needed.
(830) 202-6276 View (830) 202-6276
Photo of Mamie Sheriff Sonnah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Mamie Sheriff Sonnah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Mamie, nice to meet you! Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. Past clients have described me as compassionate, client-centered, and genuine. I view each of my clients as a whole—considering physical symptoms (weight, sleeping patterns, eating habits, pain, etc), emotional symptoms (such as panic, racing thoughts, hopelessness), and social factors (relationships, family, work-life balance)—to deliver the most effective and compassionate care possible.
Hello, my name is Mamie, nice to meet you! Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. Past clients have described me as compassionate, client-centered, and genuine. I view each of my clients as a whole—considering physical symptoms (weight, sleeping patterns, eating habits, pain, etc), emotional symptoms (such as panic, racing thoughts, hopelessness), and social factors (relationships, family, work-life balance)—to deliver the most effective and compassionate care possible.
(832) 479-3248 View (832) 479-3248

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lawrence Oke Jr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Lawrence Oke Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in both mental health and medical settings, I approach treatment holistically, considering the mind-body connection to support overall well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in both mental health and medical settings, I approach treatment holistically, considering the mind-body connection to support overall well-being.
(346) 536-3489 View (346) 536-3489
Photo of Andrew Rumble, Psychiatrist, DO
Andrew Rumble
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. I previously served in the United States Army for eight years on active duty, where I had the privilege of treating service members and their families. During that time, I focused on helping individuals manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and challenging life transitions.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. I previously served in the United States Army for eight years on active duty, where I had the privilege of treating service members and their families. During that time, I focused on helping individuals manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and challenging life transitions.
(737) 637-3589 View (737) 637-3589
Photo of Dr. Vinod Alluri, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA
Dr. Vinod Alluri
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA
Serves Area
At Integrative Care Psychiatry, we understand that no two people are the same—neither are their mental health journeys. We focus on providing personalized, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, we offer a holistic approach that treats you as a whole person—mind, body, and spirit. We provide cutting-edge therapies like Deep TMS and Ketamine Therapy to relieve patients who haven't succeeded with traditional treatments. These therapies are non-invasive, effective, and tailored to help you.
At Integrative Care Psychiatry, we understand that no two people are the same—neither are their mental health journeys. We focus on providing personalized, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, we offer a holistic approach that treats you as a whole person—mind, body, and spirit. We provide cutting-edge therapies like Deep TMS and Ketamine Therapy to relieve patients who haven't succeeded with traditional treatments. These therapies are non-invasive, effective, and tailored to help you.
(512) 434-8975 View (512) 434-8975
Photo of Michelle Courts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Michelle Courts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Michelle is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience delivering comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My individualized treatment approach combines medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies to support each client’s overall well-being and long-term recovery.”
Michelle is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience delivering comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My individualized treatment approach combines medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies to support each client’s overall well-being and long-term recovery.”
(737) 234-2097 View (737) 234-2097
Photo of Dr. Ernest Spiotto - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(737) 317-2544 View (737) 317-2544
Photo of Jean Dunham, Psychiatrist, MD
Jean Dunham
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new patients: children ages 3 and up, adolescents, and young adults. Welcome to Roots and Wings Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Our philosophy is that every child should be imparted with two gifts. One is roots and the other is wings. I am a licensed physician since 2005 and have been practicing primarily child and adolescent psychiatry since 2008. Our goal is to see every child flourish in the context of his or her family. In addition to traditional psychiatric medication management, we also offer alternative treatments, as well as individual and family therapy.
Currently accepting new patients: children ages 3 and up, adolescents, and young adults. Welcome to Roots and Wings Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Our philosophy is that every child should be imparted with two gifts. One is roots and the other is wings. I am a licensed physician since 2005 and have been practicing primarily child and adolescent psychiatry since 2008. Our goal is to see every child flourish in the context of his or her family. In addition to traditional psychiatric medication management, we also offer alternative treatments, as well as individual and family therapy.
(512) 778-2018 View (512) 778-2018
Photo of Vanessa L Vela, Psychiatrist, MD
Vanessa L Vela
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I have been practicing for 19 years and continue to look forward to helping others find the proper treatment for their needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. I understand that each of my patients have unique strengths. I am committed to providing genuine, caring and confidential care for professionals, families and children. I am a firm believer in change and hold an optimistic view in helping others. I often find that people have gone without treatment for various reasons but I am here to help them find the appropriate direction.
I have been practicing for 19 years and continue to look forward to helping others find the proper treatment for their needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. I understand that each of my patients have unique strengths. I am committed to providing genuine, caring and confidential care for professionals, families and children. I am a firm believer in change and hold an optimistic view in helping others. I often find that people have gone without treatment for various reasons but I am here to help them find the appropriate direction.
(830) 254-5217 View (830) 254-5217
Photo of Ernest Spiotto, Psychiatrist, MD
Ernest Spiotto
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Ernest Spiotto is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned his M.D. at Albany Medical College. Dr. Spiotto is compassionate and dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of adults. He offers comprehensive treatment plans, including medication management and supportive psychotherapy, to help patients overcome their challenges and thrive. Outside of work, Dr. Spiotto is an avid reader and traveler, always seeking new knowledge and experiences.
Dr. Ernest Spiotto is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned his M.D. at Albany Medical College. Dr. Spiotto is compassionate and dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of adults. He offers comprehensive treatment plans, including medication management and supportive psychotherapy, to help patients overcome their challenges and thrive. Outside of work, Dr. Spiotto is an avid reader and traveler, always seeking new knowledge and experiences.
(737) 373-2664 View (737) 373-2664
Photo of Jerilyn Town, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jerilyn Town
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The ideal client is motivated to seek help. This patient may struggle with a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. They want to regain control over their lives and alleviate the distress caused by their mental health conditions. Their desire for help often stems from their symptoms' impact on their personal, social, and professional lives. Their goals are typically centered around achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing overall quality of life. They may also seek to develop healthier coping mechanisms and better interpersonal relationships.
The ideal client is motivated to seek help. This patient may struggle with a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. They want to regain control over their lives and alleviate the distress caused by their mental health conditions. Their desire for help often stems from their symptoms' impact on their personal, social, and professional lives. Their goals are typically centered around achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing overall quality of life. They may also seek to develop healthier coping mechanisms and better interpersonal relationships.
(832) 281-5357 View (832) 281-5357
Photo of Cynthia Hathaway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Cynthia Hathaway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Accepting new patients! I treat adolescents ages 14 and up as well as adults struggling with mental health disorders such as depression, Alcohol Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety diorders, and ADHD to name a few. I have been a nurse for over 27 years, and my multiple deployments as an Air Force Flight Nurse and intensive care nurse have given me a wide range of experience in caring for others who have endured significant physical and mental trauma. My office is a private environment designed to give you compassionate care and implement a treatment plan to help you to live your best life of mental health and wellness.
Accepting new patients! I treat adolescents ages 14 and up as well as adults struggling with mental health disorders such as depression, Alcohol Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety diorders, and ADHD to name a few. I have been a nurse for over 27 years, and my multiple deployments as an Air Force Flight Nurse and intensive care nurse have given me a wide range of experience in caring for others who have endured significant physical and mental trauma. My office is a private environment designed to give you compassionate care and implement a treatment plan to help you to live your best life of mental health and wellness.
(830) 423-5640 View (830) 423-5640
Photo of Lori Ray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Lori Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and my primary goal is to support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, and PTSD. I believe in a collaborative approach that empowers each person to take an active role in their healing. My services include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. I draw from both traditional and holistic methods to create individualized treatment plans that improve symptoms, enhance quality of life, and help rebuild relationships.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and my primary goal is to support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, and PTSD. I believe in a collaborative approach that empowers each person to take an active role in their healing. My services include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. I draw from both traditional and holistic methods to create individualized treatment plans that improve symptoms, enhance quality of life, and help rebuild relationships.
(737) 520-3869 View (737) 520-3869
Photo of Maitreyee Lund, Psychiatrist, MD
Maitreyee Lund
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Lund provides individualized psychiatric treatment with the careful use of medications along with psychotherapy to adults and older adolescents. After completing psychiatric residency at University of Michigan she has received extensive training in psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness.
Dr. Lund provides individualized psychiatric treatment with the careful use of medications along with psychotherapy to adults and older adolescents. After completing psychiatric residency at University of Michigan she has received extensive training in psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness.
(512) 361-5848 View (512) 361-5848
Photo of Sharon Karki, Psychiatrist, MD
Sharon Karki
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, while providing mental health services in an outpatient setting. While I work closely with young children and teens, my expertise includes treating a wide range of conditions, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis, and sleep disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, while providing mental health services in an outpatient setting. While I work closely with young children and teens, my expertise includes treating a wide range of conditions, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis, and sleep disorders.
(512) 575-2003 View (512) 575-2003
Photo of Misti B Maag, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Misti B Maag
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Dr. Maag is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over twenty years of experience in various areas of healthcare. She holds a Post-Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
Dr. Maag is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over twenty years of experience in various areas of healthcare. She holds a Post-Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
(254) 566-2817 View (254) 566-2817
Photo of Anita Padilla Weekend Availability, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CIMHP, ADHDCSP
Anita Padilla Weekend Availability
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CIMHP, ADHDCSP
Online Only
Thank you for your consideration as your next provider. I appreciate that it is difficult to find the right fit for your mental health concerns. One of the main concerns I have heard over the years is that patients do not feel heard when they reach out for help. I have carried this with me throughout my career. I spend the time to truly listen and understand your concerns. I work with you to identify a treatment plan you are comfortable with. The outcomes are better if you trust your provider and you work together to achieve remission.
Thank you for your consideration as your next provider. I appreciate that it is difficult to find the right fit for your mental health concerns. One of the main concerns I have heard over the years is that patients do not feel heard when they reach out for help. I have carried this with me throughout my career. I spend the time to truly listen and understand your concerns. I work with you to identify a treatment plan you are comfortable with. The outcomes are better if you trust your provider and you work together to achieve remission.
(512) 866-1616 View (512) 866-1616
Photo of Perry Bishop, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Perry Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Through active listening and compassionate care, Perry Bishop, PMHNP, is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of psychiatric care to his patients. Perry prides himself on being an advocate for his patients. He strives to deliver the highest quality of care to create personalized treatment plans. His goal is to support his patients so they can achieve their goals in life.
Through active listening and compassionate care, Perry Bishop, PMHNP, is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of psychiatric care to his patients. Perry prides himself on being an advocate for his patients. He strives to deliver the highest quality of care to create personalized treatment plans. His goal is to support his patients so they can achieve their goals in life.
(737) 373-4067 View (737) 373-4067

See more therapy options for 78624

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78624

< 10

Psychiatrists in 78624 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Aetna
25% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 78624 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78624?

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.