Psychiatrists in 78703

Photo of Samantha Symons - Bluebird Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
Bluebird Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Bluebird Psychiatry is a trusted mental health practice that offers a warm, accessible environment for adult patients. Dr. Symons and psychiatric nurse practitioners Alexandra Prosk and Kelly Witte provide patient-focused mental health services, including medication management, to help patients with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and more.
Bluebird Psychiatry is a trusted mental health practice that offers a warm, accessible environment for adult patients. Dr. Symons and psychiatric nurse practitioners Alexandra Prosk and Kelly Witte provide patient-focused mental health services, including medication management, to help patients with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and more.
(512) 559-8715 View (512) 559-8715
Photo of Ghadeer Okayli, MD, Psychiatrist
Ghadeer Okayli
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I am Dr. Ghadeer Okayli, an adult psychiatrist in Central Austin,Tx. I have 22years of experience in treating adults with a large spectrum of psychiatric conditions like Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD to mention a few. I was privileged to be trained in top psychiatric programs, by world renowned psychiatrists and researchers like Drs. Herbert Y Meltzer, Joe Calabrese, Brian Roth, Ned Kalin, and others. The training provided a strong foundation to build my practice on. I have continued to consult with my mentors throughout the past 22years. I am equipped with state of the art knowledge.
I am Dr. Ghadeer Okayli, an adult psychiatrist in Central Austin,Tx. I have 22years of experience in treating adults with a large spectrum of psychiatric conditions like Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and ADHD to mention a few. I was privileged to be trained in top psychiatric programs, by world renowned psychiatrists and researchers like Drs. Herbert Y Meltzer, Joe Calabrese, Brian Roth, Ned Kalin, and others. The training provided a strong foundation to build my practice on. I have continued to consult with my mentors throughout the past 22years. I am equipped with state of the art knowledge.
(512) 948-3752 View (512) 948-3752
Photo of Meredith Tompkins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meredith Tompkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
Psychiatric evaluation and medication management with a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I make a thorough assessment and treat you as more than a diagnosis. We partner to address mental health concerns and tailor medication to individual, particular needs. Your therapist/dietician is welcome to coordinate with me to optimize overall treatment. I am in-network with Blue Cross/Anthem, Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Optum/United/Oscar. Out of pocket fee: $300/first session, $180/follow-up. I'm managing your medications but follow-up appointments are 20-30 minutes - we discuss more than just side effects and dose to better treat you.
Psychiatric evaluation and medication management with a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I make a thorough assessment and treat you as more than a diagnosis. We partner to address mental health concerns and tailor medication to individual, particular needs. Your therapist/dietician is welcome to coordinate with me to optimize overall treatment. I am in-network with Blue Cross/Anthem, Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Optum/United/Oscar. Out of pocket fee: $300/first session, $180/follow-up. I'm managing your medications but follow-up appointments are 20-30 minutes - we discuss more than just side effects and dose to better treat you.
(512) 942-0243 x101 View (512) 942-0243 x101
Photo of Emma Smith, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emma Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
My approach is grounded in meeting clients wherever they are in life's journey. Embracing a pragmatic perspective that recognizes the influence of environmental, economic, and societal factors, I am committed to a client-centered approach that emphasizes self-exploration and collaborative care.
My approach is grounded in meeting clients wherever they are in life's journey. Embracing a pragmatic perspective that recognizes the influence of environmental, economic, and societal factors, I am committed to a client-centered approach that emphasizes self-exploration and collaborative care.
(737) 348-0518 View (737) 348-0518
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(210) 526-0388 View (210) 526-0388
Photo of Brent Jakubec, MD, Psychiatrist
Brent Jakubec
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
The ideal patient for a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist seeks support navigating diverse mental health challenges across the lifespan. In the case of a child or adolescent, they may be grappling with issues like academic stress, social difficulties, or emerging mental health concerns. The goal is to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping mechanisms during this formative period. For adults, the ideal client might be facing a range of issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or workplace stress.
The ideal patient for a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist seeks support navigating diverse mental health challenges across the lifespan. In the case of a child or adolescent, they may be grappling with issues like academic stress, social difficulties, or emerging mental health concerns. The goal is to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping mechanisms during this formative period. For adults, the ideal client might be facing a range of issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or workplace stress.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Michael Alan Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Alan Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing in West Lake Hills, Texas. In my office, or through telepsychiatry, I treat adults, adolescents, couples and families using a broad variety of methods and techniques, and, most importantly, an empathic and non-judgmental approach. My practice is collaborative, person-centered and holistic. Working with you, I will provide psychotherapy and, when appropriate, medication management. I will take the time and strive with you to develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and wishes and to provide the best solution and the best result.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing in West Lake Hills, Texas. In my office, or through telepsychiatry, I treat adults, adolescents, couples and families using a broad variety of methods and techniques, and, most importantly, an empathic and non-judgmental approach. My practice is collaborative, person-centered and holistic. Working with you, I will provide psychotherapy and, when appropriate, medication management. I will take the time and strive with you to develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and wishes and to provide the best solution and the best result.
(844) 909-1693 View (844) 909-1693
Photo of Dr. Nkeiruka Madubueze, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Nkeiruka Madubueze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
Dr. Nkeiruka Madubueze is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I provide comprehensive and quality care for patients with various mental health disorders and improvement of their mental health. I earned a master’s degree and doctoral degree in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at the University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL.
Dr. Nkeiruka Madubueze is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I provide comprehensive and quality care for patients with various mental health disorders and improvement of their mental health. I earned a master’s degree and doctoral degree in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at the University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL.
(512) 714-9259 View (512) 714-9259
Photo of Zhan Yang, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zhan Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2013. I offer medication management services both in person and through telepsychiatry to ages 12 and older. My approach focuses on integrated mental health and physical well beings. Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of psychiatric settings with various age groups, including both acute psychiatric hospitals and long-term care facilities.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2013. I offer medication management services both in person and through telepsychiatry to ages 12 and older. My approach focuses on integrated mental health and physical well beings. Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of psychiatric settings with various age groups, including both acute psychiatric hospitals and long-term care facilities.
(512) 883-4621 View (512) 883-4621
Photo of Lejla Medic, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lejla Medic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Mental health, happiness, and healing is attainable for everyone. By building a genuine connection with my clients, we create a treatment plan together to address their unique needs. My focus is on holistic, integrative care through the use of medications, psychotherapy, and promoting healthy lifestyle shifts. I strive to create an inclusive, safe environment for all.
Mental health, happiness, and healing is attainable for everyone. By building a genuine connection with my clients, we create a treatment plan together to address their unique needs. My focus is on holistic, integrative care through the use of medications, psychotherapy, and promoting healthy lifestyle shifts. I strive to create an inclusive, safe environment for all.
(512) 270-1105 View (512) 270-1105
Photo of Austin Psychcare - Austin Psychcare: Magid, Fox, Cullers, & Robinson , Psychiatrist
Austin Psychcare: Magid, Fox, Cullers, & Robinson
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Nature vs. Nurture? At Austin PsychCare, we believe that the two are so intricately entwined, that you can't address one without the other. As such, Michelle Magid, MD, MBA, Isadora Fox, PMHNP, Justin Cullers, PMHNP, and Anna Robinson MD have spent their entire careers becoming experts in both pharmacology and therapy. We have received specialized trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and life coaching. In addition, we are experts in medication management. We hope to pass our research, knowledge, and experience in the mind/body connection onto you, so that you can become your best self.
Nature vs. Nurture? At Austin PsychCare, we believe that the two are so intricately entwined, that you can't address one without the other. As such, Michelle Magid, MD, MBA, Isadora Fox, PMHNP, Justin Cullers, PMHNP, and Anna Robinson MD have spent their entire careers becoming experts in both pharmacology and therapy. We have received specialized trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and life coaching. In addition, we are experts in medication management. We hope to pass our research, knowledge, and experience in the mind/body connection onto you, so that you can become your best self.
(512) 580-8678 View (512) 580-8678
Photo of Eric D. Seilhamer Jr., DNP, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric D. Seilhamer Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
(210) 468-7099 View (210) 468-7099
Photo of Sam Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist
Sam Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
If you're looking to manage any of the following: depression, anxiety, OCD, mood swings, trauma, or DP/DR symptoms, my services can help. I'm a psychiatrist (MD) and my experience includes five years at one the largest university counseling centers in the country, private practice, community clinics, and working with veterans. What I offer: unhurried visits, thoughtful treatment discussions, collaboration, and a focus on meeting your personal goals. I'm well-informed about medications, as well as other options ranging from therapy to complementary/natural approaches. Please note: I am 'out-of-network' with insurances at this time.
If you're looking to manage any of the following: depression, anxiety, OCD, mood swings, trauma, or DP/DR symptoms, my services can help. I'm a psychiatrist (MD) and my experience includes five years at one the largest university counseling centers in the country, private practice, community clinics, and working with veterans. What I offer: unhurried visits, thoughtful treatment discussions, collaboration, and a focus on meeting your personal goals. I'm well-informed about medications, as well as other options ranging from therapy to complementary/natural approaches. Please note: I am 'out-of-network' with insurances at this time.
(737) 345-0838 View (737) 345-0838
Photo of Kevin Grabski, MD, Psychiatrist
Kevin Grabski
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Hello, I'm Dr. Grabski. I have recently opened my own private practice in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Austin. My ideal practice is one in which I treat individuals with regular psychotherapy. Also as I have expertise in psychopharmacology, medication management could be assumed and continued, or managed in a split treatment.
Hello, I'm Dr. Grabski. I have recently opened my own private practice in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Austin. My ideal practice is one in which I treat individuals with regular psychotherapy. Also as I have expertise in psychopharmacology, medication management could be assumed and continued, or managed in a split treatment.
(737) 299-8674 View (737) 299-8674
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(512) 265-2532 View (512) 265-2532
Photo of Zaw Win, MD, Psychiatrist
Zaw Win
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Zaw Win, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Win was elected by the Membership Committee and the Board of Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association to be a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA) in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. Dr. Win completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1998.
Zaw Win, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Win was elected by the Membership Committee and the Board of Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association to be a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA) in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. Dr. Win completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1998.
(512) 882-2072 View (512) 882-2072
Photo of Danielle Rott, MD, Psychiatrist
Danielle Rott
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Danielle Rott is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. She has an MD from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and a BS from Michigan State University. Danielle has expertise in medication management for adults. She has specialized in the college population. Danielle treats a multitude of disorders including Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis. In her spare time, Danielle enjoys traveling and is trying to visit every continent. She loves trying out new restaurants, hiking, movies, and spending time with her dog.
Danielle Rott is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. She has an MD from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and a BS from Michigan State University. Danielle has expertise in medication management for adults. She has specialized in the college population. Danielle treats a multitude of disorders including Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis. In her spare time, Danielle enjoys traveling and is trying to visit every continent. She loves trying out new restaurants, hiking, movies, and spending time with her dog.
(737) 758-3920 View (737) 758-3920
Photo of Dr. Matthew Edward Masters Jr, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Matthew Edward Masters Jr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. Outpatient Detox and Treatment of Fentanyl Addiction. Specializing in: Suboxone for Opioid Addiction; Medical Detox; 12 Step Facilitation; and Dual Diagnosis treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and ADHD. Austin Monthly's Top Doctor in Addiction Medicine 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. On the Faculty of Texas A & M School of Medicine-Round Rock with extensive teaching experience in the field of Addiction Medicine. Text us (preferred) or call for appointment at (512) 810-2079 and see our website for information at: www.drugfreeaustin.com
Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. Outpatient Detox and Treatment of Fentanyl Addiction. Specializing in: Suboxone for Opioid Addiction; Medical Detox; 12 Step Facilitation; and Dual Diagnosis treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and ADHD. Austin Monthly's Top Doctor in Addiction Medicine 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. On the Faculty of Texas A & M School of Medicine-Round Rock with extensive teaching experience in the field of Addiction Medicine. Text us (preferred) or call for appointment at (512) 810-2079 and see our website for information at: www.drugfreeaustin.com
(512) 810-2079 View (512) 810-2079
Photo of Mary Glenney, PMHCNS, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Glenney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, FNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Mary Glenney is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 1996. She has a Master of Science degree in Nursing, a Master of Science in psychology and a post-master certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Mary offers years of experience in multiple settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and crisis management. She is comfortable treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. Mary's diverse education allows her to take a holistic approach to mental health treatment. Outside of work, Mary enjoys music, spending time with friends and family, and sports.
Mary Glenney is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 1996. She has a Master of Science degree in Nursing, a Master of Science in psychology and a post-master certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Mary offers years of experience in multiple settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and crisis management. She is comfortable treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. Mary's diverse education allows her to take a holistic approach to mental health treatment. Outside of work, Mary enjoys music, spending time with friends and family, and sports.
(512) 817-3736 View (512) 817-3736
Photo of Joshua Paul Maniscalco - Westlake Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Westlake Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
(737) 530-7904 View (737) 530-7904
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78703

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 78703 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
96% Depression
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Medication Management
67% ADHD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 78703 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78703?

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.