Psychiatrists in 78723

Photo of Andrew Pratt, Physician Assistant, PA
Andrew Pratt
Physician Assistant, PA
Austin, TX 78723
Medication and psychotherapy are the most common treatments for depression, but they do not work in all cases—in fact, some patients get no relief from either. This can be due to the side effects of their medications or a simple lack of effectiveness in those treatments. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy with minimal-side effects for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
Medication and psychotherapy are the most common treatments for depression, but they do not work in all cases—in fact, some patients get no relief from either. This can be due to the side effects of their medications or a simple lack of effectiveness in those treatments. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy with minimal-side effects for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
(512) 866-6716 View (512) 866-6716
Photo of Ramon Aragon, Psychiatrist, MD
Ramon Aragon
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78723
Depression is a severely debilitating illness and while some patients improve with medications and psychotherapy, some patients do not. This can be due to medication adverse effects, difficulty adhering to the regimen, or a simple lack of efficacy from these agents. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
Depression is a severely debilitating illness and while some patients improve with medications and psychotherapy, some patients do not. This can be due to medication adverse effects, difficulty adhering to the regimen, or a simple lack of efficacy from these agents. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
(512) 675-5449 View (512) 675-5449
Photo of Aaron Padron - Insightful Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Insightful Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
(206) 620-1222 View (206) 620-1222
Photo of Nina Herring, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nina Herring
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(737) 387-5081 View (737) 387-5081
Photo of Lindsey Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(737) 260-5121 View (737) 260-5121
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 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.
(737) 201-2706 View (737) 201-2706
Photo of Kathy Mucha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kathy Mucha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.
When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.
(737) 265-5759 View (737) 265-5759
Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(737) 278-7267 View (737) 278-7267
Photo of Kendall Kayworth - Altaffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kendall Kayworth - Altaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I moved to Austin in 2011 after graduating from Baylor University’s School of Nursing and worked as a pediatric nurse at Dell Children’s Medical Center before obtaining my master's degree. I have treated children and adults in both a hospital setting as well as an outpatient clinic setting. I have experience treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and behavioral concerns.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I moved to Austin in 2011 after graduating from Baylor University’s School of Nursing and worked as a pediatric nurse at Dell Children’s Medical Center before obtaining my master's degree. I have treated children and adults in both a hospital setting as well as an outpatient clinic setting. I have experience treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and behavioral concerns.
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Photo of Terry Van Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry Austin - We Are Open!, Psychiatrist
If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Austin, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan.
If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Austin, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan.
(512) 746-7283 View (512) 746-7283
Photo of Lauren Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lauren Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
When I shifted from ER nursing to psychiatry, I discovered the power of lasting patient relationships. After years managing acute trauma, I now deeply value building ongoing connections, helping patients overcome challenges with compassion and empathy. My goal is not just to medicate but to understand your whole story—home life, work stress, and underlying struggles. Whether managing ADHD, anxiety, or complex conditions, I'm here to partner with you, addressing root causes and helping you find sustainable relief and meaningful progress.
When I shifted from ER nursing to psychiatry, I discovered the power of lasting patient relationships. After years managing acute trauma, I now deeply value building ongoing connections, helping patients overcome challenges with compassion and empathy. My goal is not just to medicate but to understand your whole story—home life, work stress, and underlying struggles. Whether managing ADHD, anxiety, or complex conditions, I'm here to partner with you, addressing root causes and helping you find sustainable relief and meaningful progress.
(737) 221-2736 View (737) 221-2736
Photo of Dayna Kinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dayna Kinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(737) 379-1209 View (737) 379-1209
Photo of Naomi Nyabuto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Naomi Nyabuto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(512) 866-1278 View (512) 866-1278
Photo of Bettina Cordova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bettina Cordova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
(512) 877-7896 View (512) 877-7896

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Becky Scaduto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Becky Scaduto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
I provide care that centers patients, making myself a guide of available options rather than the final decision-maker. I try to invest plenty of time at our visits to get a clear picture of how your symptoms are impacting your daily life and what we can do to change them. I have several years of experience treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, substance use, psychosis and posttraumatic stress disorder. As a PMHNP I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and brief psychotherapeutic techniques. Though I do not provide therapy primarily, whenever possible I use ACT and CBT therapeutic techniques to bolster my practice.
I provide care that centers patients, making myself a guide of available options rather than the final decision-maker. I try to invest plenty of time at our visits to get a clear picture of how your symptoms are impacting your daily life and what we can do to change them. I have several years of experience treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, substance use, psychosis and posttraumatic stress disorder. As a PMHNP I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and brief psychotherapeutic techniques. Though I do not provide therapy primarily, whenever possible I use ACT and CBT therapeutic techniques to bolster my practice.
(512) 598-6914 View (512) 598-6914
Photo of Trecy Bergen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Trecy Bergen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78702
My goal is to help you access your inner healer, your innate wisdom, and to help you remember who you are. I believe every human has the capacity to recover and heal.
My goal is to help you access your inner healer, your innate wisdom, and to help you remember who you are. I believe every human has the capacity to recover and heal.
(512) 559-8326 View (512) 559-8326
Photo of Dr. Daniel Jinho Ha - SOMA Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
SOMA Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78746
New patient appointments are available. At SOMA Psychiatry, our goal is to return quality of life through integration of psychopharmacological therapy (medication management) with a cognitive, motivational, and supportive therapeutic approach during each session. We value collaboration with our patients to provide empowerment through knowledge and confidence in their individualized treatment plans.
New patient appointments are available. At SOMA Psychiatry, our goal is to return quality of life through integration of psychopharmacological therapy (medication management) with a cognitive, motivational, and supportive therapeutic approach during each session. We value collaboration with our patients to provide empowerment through knowledge and confidence in their individualized treatment plans.
(737) 216-8634 View (737) 216-8634
Photo of Emma Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Emma Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
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. Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription
(346) 486-4490 View (346) 486-4490
Photo of Ellen Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ellen Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
If you are worried about yourself or your child's mental wellbeing, you've come to the right place. I work with clients ages 5-25 who are experiencing various levels of psychiatric distress and looking for diagnosis and medication management. In conjunction with medication management, I provide holistic, well-rounded, and integrated approaches to mental wellness. My practice is inclusive and affirming of all genders, sexualities, body types, and neurotypes.
If you are worried about yourself or your child's mental wellbeing, you've come to the right place. I work with clients ages 5-25 who are experiencing various levels of psychiatric distress and looking for diagnosis and medication management. In conjunction with medication management, I provide holistic, well-rounded, and integrated approaches to mental wellness. My practice is inclusive and affirming of all genders, sexualities, body types, and neurotypes.
(737) 252-4752 View (737) 252-4752

See more therapy options for 78723

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78723

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 78723 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
93% Medication Management
86% Anxiety
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum
93% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 78723 see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78723?

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.