Psychiatrists in 78731

Georgia Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, DNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
As a seasoned and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), my mission is to provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a commitment to fostering holistic well-being, I am driven by a profound passion for psychiatry and a patient-centered philosophy that extends beyond conventional treatment modalities.
As a seasoned and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), my mission is to provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a commitment to fostering holistic well-being, I am driven by a profound passion for psychiatry and a patient-centered philosophy that extends beyond conventional treatment modalities.

Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming, but getting help shouldn't be. At Legion Health, we make the process seamless and supportive. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive medication management, including treatment for conditions requiring controlled substances, and provide personalized care plans tailored to your needs. With appointments available within a week and in-network coverage with all major insurance payers, we remove barriers to care so you can focus on what matters—your well-being.
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming, but getting help shouldn't be. At Legion Health, we make the process seamless and supportive. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive medication management, including treatment for conditions requiring controlled substances, and provide personalized care plans tailored to your needs. With appointments available within a week and in-network coverage with all major insurance payers, we remove barriers to care so you can focus on what matters—your well-being.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, personalized care for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and life transitions. I take a holistic approach, integrating medication management with attention to sleep, nutrition, and stress. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and empowered. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and supports long-term mental and emotional wellness.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, personalized care for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and life transitions. I take a holistic approach, integrating medication management with attention to sleep, nutrition, and stress. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and empowered. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and supports long-term mental and emotional wellness.

I am most experienced with treating psychiatric concerns of a young adult population but I consult with and treat adults of all ages. I have broad experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and eating disorder. I enjoy educating clients who may be new to medication treatment and have reservations about it. I work best with clients who are looking to incorporate medication treatment with other therapeutic options such as psychotherapy, lifestyle change, exercise, and mindfulness-based approaches. Though I do not offer specific treatment for addictions, I address self-medication issues and substance abuse issues with all clients.
I am most experienced with treating psychiatric concerns of a young adult population but I consult with and treat adults of all ages. I have broad experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and eating disorder. I enjoy educating clients who may be new to medication treatment and have reservations about it. I work best with clients who are looking to incorporate medication treatment with other therapeutic options such as psychotherapy, lifestyle change, exercise, and mindfulness-based approaches. Though I do not offer specific treatment for addictions, I address self-medication issues and substance abuse issues with all clients.

My ideal client faces challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or weight management. They seek a compassionate, understanding, and humorous healthcare provider to help navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, improving physical health, and developing effective coping strategies. They want personalized, culturally sensitive care that respects their unique background and preferences. Ultimately, they aim for improved well-being and quality of life, looking for a supportive partner to guide them toward resilience and hope.
My ideal client faces challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or weight management. They seek a compassionate, understanding, and humorous healthcare provider to help navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, improving physical health, and developing effective coping strategies. They want personalized, culturally sensitive care that respects their unique background and preferences. Ultimately, they aim for improved well-being and quality of life, looking for a supportive partner to guide them toward resilience and hope.

Dr. Victoria Nettles aims for a teamwork approach with a personal interest in overall wellness outside of the treatment plan, which incorporates wellness via nutrition, exercise, sleep, meditation, and medication when appropriate.
She is also a believer in interventional treatments, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. To her, these alternatives are proven to be effective and offer more options for each patient. She joined Mindful Health Solutions to work somewhere where these treatment alternatives are available and proven to help.
Dr. Victoria Nettles aims for a teamwork approach with a personal interest in overall wellness outside of the treatment plan, which incorporates wellness via nutrition, exercise, sleep, meditation, and medication when appropriate.
She is also a believer in interventional treatments, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. To her, these alternatives are proven to be effective and offer more options for each patient. She joined Mindful Health Solutions to work somewhere where these treatment alternatives are available and proven to help.

Dr. Chadha has always been fascinated by how the brain works. Becoming a psychiatrist offered her an opportunity to learn more about the complexities of the human mind, while allowing her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
She works with patients who suffer from mood disorders, specifically treatment-resistant depression, postpartum mental health, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other anxiety disorders. As an immigrant in this country, she has a unique understanding of the cultural and other challenging issues that affect the mental health of immigrants and other minority communities.
Dr. Chadha has always been fascinated by how the brain works. Becoming a psychiatrist offered her an opportunity to learn more about the complexities of the human mind, while allowing her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
She works with patients who suffer from mood disorders, specifically treatment-resistant depression, postpartum mental health, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other anxiety disorders. As an immigrant in this country, she has a unique understanding of the cultural and other challenging issues that affect the mental health of immigrants and other minority communities.

Finding Your Peace Healings springs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a provider, my greatest strengths lie in my ability to truly listen and understand my clients from the bottom of my heart. I create a non-judgmental, safe space where you feel heard and valued. I prioritize empathy and understanding, and I strive to meet you where you are in your journey. By taking the time to listen deeply, I can tailor your care to your specific needs, ensuring that we work collaboratively towards your mental health goals. My holistic approach is grounded in respect, trust, and a genuine desire to see you succeed in your journey to wellness
As a provider, my greatest strengths lie in my ability to truly listen and understand my clients from the bottom of my heart. I create a non-judgmental, safe space where you feel heard and valued. I prioritize empathy and understanding, and I strive to meet you where you are in your journey. By taking the time to listen deeply, I can tailor your care to your specific needs, ensuring that we work collaboratively towards your mental health goals. My holistic approach is grounded in respect, trust, and a genuine desire to see you succeed in your journey to wellness

Michelle Courts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Michelle is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience delivering comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My individualized treatment approach combines medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies to support each client’s overall well-being and long-term recovery.”
Michelle is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience delivering comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My individualized treatment approach combines medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies to support each client’s overall well-being and long-term recovery.”

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.

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with prescribing authority. I offer medication management, alone or in combination with psychotherapy, to adults. We schedule new patient appointments through a secure form on our website. Please provide the requested information, and a member of our staff will respond promptly! www.pondworkspsychiatry.com
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with prescribing authority. I offer medication management, alone or in combination with psychotherapy, to adults. We schedule new patient appointments through a secure form on our website. Please provide the requested information, and a member of our staff will respond promptly! www.pondworkspsychiatry.com
Meet Our Psychiatrists

I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist who attended both my adult and child and adolescent psychiatry training in Austin, TX. I am board-certified in adult psychiatry in addition to child and adolescent psychiatry. I provide assessment and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, developmental disorders, ADHD, and other behavioral issues. I have specific training in trauma-informed care and enjoy working with individuals and families. I like to focus on both psychotherapy and medication management approaches to help address the concerns at hand and empower the client.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist who attended both my adult and child and adolescent psychiatry training in Austin, TX. I am board-certified in adult psychiatry in addition to child and adolescent psychiatry. I provide assessment and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, developmental disorders, ADHD, and other behavioral issues. I have specific training in trauma-informed care and enjoy working with individuals and families. I like to focus on both psychotherapy and medication management approaches to help address the concerns at hand and empower the client.

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.

Meredith Childress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you tired of feeling stuck in survival mode — exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you want to be living? You’re not alone. More than ever, people are realizing they deserve more than just “getting by” — they deserve to truly live.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, or simply feeling unfulfilled, know that a more energized, balanced, and meaningful life is absolutely within reach. Healing is possible, and lasting change begins with the right support.
Are you tired of feeling stuck in survival mode — exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you want to be living? You’re not alone. More than ever, people are realizing they deserve more than just “getting by” — they deserve to truly live.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, or simply feeling unfulfilled, know that a more energized, balanced, and meaningful life is absolutely within reach. Healing is possible, and lasting change begins with the right support.

Isadora Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
Psychiatry is for any person and every person, regardless of where they are in their life. Highly successful people have problems, too. Just because your life looks great on paper does not mean that you're not suffering on the inside. Feelings and emotions don't discriminate based on income or level of education. And if you're life doesn't look so great on paper, grappling with emotional issues may be keeping you from achieving your goals and moving forward in your life. Psychiatric clinicians offer what life coaches can't--a full assessment of the biological, psychological, and sociological issues.
Psychiatry is for any person and every person, regardless of where they are in their life. Highly successful people have problems, too. Just because your life looks great on paper does not mean that you're not suffering on the inside. Feelings and emotions don't discriminate based on income or level of education. And if you're life doesn't look so great on paper, grappling with emotional issues may be keeping you from achieving your goals and moving forward in your life. Psychiatric clinicians offer what life coaches can't--a full assessment of the biological, psychological, and sociological issues.

I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and owner of Clear Water Psychiatry. I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnostic services and medication management with psychoeducation. I believe in a holistic, client-centered and evidence based perspective. I specialize in the treatment of adults with trauma, mood, anxiety and thought disorders as well as pre-peri-post natal psychiatry. I am committed to an integrated model of care and partner with my clients, their healthcare providers and therapists. My Master's of Nursing and training as a PMHNP from the University of Texas in Austin.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and owner of Clear Water Psychiatry. I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnostic services and medication management with psychoeducation. I believe in a holistic, client-centered and evidence based perspective. I specialize in the treatment of adults with trauma, mood, anxiety and thought disorders as well as pre-peri-post natal psychiatry. I am committed to an integrated model of care and partner with my clients, their healthcare providers and therapists. My Master's of Nursing and training as a PMHNP from the University of Texas in Austin.

Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.

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.

Margreth Chioma Onyiuke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Is your current treatment not delivering the results you hoped for?
You’re in the right place. At SerenMind Psychiatry, your well-being comes first. I’m dedicated to providing personalized care that goes beyond just managing symptoms. I take a holistic approach to mental health, considering the whole person—your physical, emotional, and social needs. Together, we’ll craft a treatment plan tailored to your specific goals and challenges.
Is your current treatment not delivering the results you hoped for?
You’re in the right place. At SerenMind Psychiatry, your well-being comes first. I’m dedicated to providing personalized care that goes beyond just managing symptoms. I take a holistic approach to mental health, considering the whole person—your physical, emotional, and social needs. Together, we’ll craft a treatment plan tailored to your specific goals and challenges.

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.
See more therapy options for 78731
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 78731
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 78731 who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 78731 see their clients
60% | Online Only | |
40% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
19% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 78731?
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.