Psychiatrists in 78704

Struggling with mental health can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Naomi Nyabuto, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. My approach goes beyond symptoms, integrating medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle strategies to create lasting change. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or sleep issues, I believe in collaboration, empathy, and non-judgmental support. Let’s work together to help you feel better and regain control of your life.
Struggling with mental health can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Naomi Nyabuto, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. My approach goes beyond symptoms, integrating medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle strategies to create lasting change. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or sleep issues, I believe in collaboration, empathy, and non-judgmental support. Let’s work together to help you feel better and regain control of your life.

Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.

Hannah J Green, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my practice embodies a philosophy of holistic care, based on the principle that health of the mind and body are strongly intertwined. My approach is to understand and appreciate all aspects of a person, focusing not only on client concerns but also on strengths and abilities to reach optimal wellness. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with each client that is nurturing, motivating, challenging, and authentic, and that leads to achievement of goals and positive change.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my practice embodies a philosophy of holistic care, based on the principle that health of the mind and body are strongly intertwined. My approach is to understand and appreciate all aspects of a person, focusing not only on client concerns but also on strengths and abilities to reach optimal wellness. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with each client that is nurturing, motivating, challenging, and authentic, and that leads to achievement of goals and positive change.

“What we Resist, Persists.” Anxiety and depression suck! When we suffer mental or emotional illness, it impacts every aspect of our lives. It makes us excessively worried, irritable, angry, and constantly ‘just not feeling good.’ It makes it difficult to do a good job at work and, most importantly, damages relationships with our friends, family, and loved ones. This is particularly important when it comes to raising our children. Anxiety and Depression impair our sleep, making the sense of fatigue and exhaustion worse. People often cope using too much alcohol or other drugs. Most importantly, it makes us feel isolated and alone.
“What we Resist, Persists.” Anxiety and depression suck! When we suffer mental or emotional illness, it impacts every aspect of our lives. It makes us excessively worried, irritable, angry, and constantly ‘just not feeling good.’ It makes it difficult to do a good job at work and, most importantly, damages relationships with our friends, family, and loved ones. This is particularly important when it comes to raising our children. Anxiety and Depression impair our sleep, making the sense of fatigue and exhaustion worse. People often cope using too much alcohol or other drugs. Most importantly, it makes us feel isolated and alone.

Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.

Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.

At Roots Behavioral Health, access to care and affordability of care are our touchstone values. I co-founded Roots with the goal of honoring these values in our community. By using a model of working with physician assistants, we are able to help more people in need. And to make care more affordable, our clinics accept most forms of commercial health insurance. As our Medical Director, I'm continually striving to elevate our standard of care.
At Roots Behavioral Health, access to care and affordability of care are our touchstone values. I co-founded Roots with the goal of honoring these values in our community. By using a model of working with physician assistants, we are able to help more people in need. And to make care more affordable, our clinics accept most forms of commercial health insurance. As our Medical Director, I'm continually striving to elevate our standard of care.

Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.

I am Kasa Weber, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I completed my training at Vanderbilt University. I provide medication management services to individuals across the lifespan with mental health and/or substance use concerns. My approach is holistic, meaning I take into account all aspects of my client’s health and wellness in providing care. I utilize evidence-based practices and pride myself on staying up to date on the latest research in psychiatry. My specialties include ADHD/ADD, anxiety disorders, depression, insomnia, PTSD and other trauma-related concerns.
I am Kasa Weber, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I completed my training at Vanderbilt University. I provide medication management services to individuals across the lifespan with mental health and/or substance use concerns. My approach is holistic, meaning I take into account all aspects of my client’s health and wellness in providing care. I utilize evidence-based practices and pride myself on staying up to date on the latest research in psychiatry. My specialties include ADHD/ADD, anxiety disorders, depression, insomnia, PTSD and other trauma-related concerns.

Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I'm Smink Achila, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry stems from a desire to make a difference in a field often stigmatized and misunderstood. I believe in meeting you where you are, and providing a nonjudgmental and empathetic space where you can openly share your experiences. Together, we'll work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I'm Smink Achila, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry stems from a desire to make a difference in a field often stigmatized and misunderstood. I believe in meeting you where you are, and providing a nonjudgmental and empathetic space where you can openly share your experiences. Together, we'll work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.
Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.

My strong clinical background enables me to be flexible in meeting the needs of my clients. I aim to go beyond the oversimplistic method of mere symptom relief by also exploring symptoms as indicators of unresolved issues that have the potential to inspire personal growth and lasting change.
My strong clinical background enables me to be flexible in meeting the needs of my clients. I aim to go beyond the oversimplistic method of mere symptom relief by also exploring symptoms as indicators of unresolved issues that have the potential to inspire personal growth and lasting change.

Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.

Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.

Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.

I am passionate about serving Austinites in need, and I practiced as a community psychiatrist with the local mental health authority for years before joining the Roots Behavioral Health team in 2020.
I am passionate about serving Austinites in need, and I practiced as a community psychiatrist with the local mental health authority for years before joining the Roots Behavioral Health team in 2020.

When you’re battling depression, even searching for help can feel exhausting. Maybe you’ve tried therapy or medications that didn’t work. Maybe past providers didn’t listen or left you feeling like just another name on a chart. We get it—and we do things differently. At Legion Health, we take a personalized, results-driven approach to depression treatment, combining evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care tailored to you. Appointments are available within a week, and getting started is simple. You don’t have to struggle alone—real relief is possible, and we’re here to help.
When you’re battling depression, even searching for help can feel exhausting. Maybe you’ve tried therapy or medications that didn’t work. Maybe past providers didn’t listen or left you feeling like just another name on a chart. We get it—and we do things differently. At Legion Health, we take a personalized, results-driven approach to depression treatment, combining evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care tailored to you. Appointments are available within a week, and getting started is simple. You don’t have to struggle alone—real relief is possible, and we’re here to help.
See more therapy options for 78704
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 78704
50+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 78704 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
85% | Medication Management |
84% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
84% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 78704 see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 78704?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.