Psychiatrists in 78737

Photo of Richard Sambrook, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Sambrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
(737) 315-3888 View (737) 315-3888
Photo of April Gonzales, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
I’m so glad you’re here! I’m April, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15+ years of experience as a Registered Nurse in pediatric and adult settings. I chose to specialize in mental health to help destigmatize mental health conditions and improve access to care. My own journey through therapy helped me recognize the importance of addressing mental health as it relates to physical health. I take a trauma-informed, holistic and culturally sensitive approach to help my clients identify and address underlying factors that negatively impact their overall quality of life.
I’m so glad you’re here! I’m April, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15+ years of experience as a Registered Nurse in pediatric and adult settings. I chose to specialize in mental health to help destigmatize mental health conditions and improve access to care. My own journey through therapy helped me recognize the importance of addressing mental health as it relates to physical health. I take a trauma-informed, holistic and culturally sensitive approach to help my clients identify and address underlying factors that negatively impact their overall quality of life.
(737) 309-3874 View (737) 309-3874
Photo of Lisa D'Amura, APRN, PMHNP, Dr Whit, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa D'Amura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, Dr Whit
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
Lisa D’Amura is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned both her Bachelors (2003) and Masters (2017) Degrees of Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin. She has experience working with a wide variety of patients in both in-patient and out-patient mental health. Before her move to psychiatric nursing Lisa was a Registered Nurse, Lactation Consultant and volunteer with a grassroots mental health organization-PSI.
Lisa D’Amura is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned both her Bachelors (2003) and Masters (2017) Degrees of Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin. She has experience working with a wide variety of patients in both in-patient and out-patient mental health. Before her move to psychiatric nursing Lisa was a Registered Nurse, Lactation Consultant and volunteer with a grassroots mental health organization-PSI.
(737) 373-2036 View (737) 373-2036
Photo of Jilji Payikkattu, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jilji Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78737
Jilji is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is qualified and experienced in treating patients with Psychiatric disorders. She graduated from University of Texas at Arlington with a Master of Science in Nursing and became a board-certified family nurse practitioner in 2013. She completed a post-master certificate in 2021 as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 17 years of experience in health care in many practice areas including acute care hospitals, nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and outpatient clinics.
Jilji is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is qualified and experienced in treating patients with Psychiatric disorders. She graduated from University of Texas at Arlington with a Master of Science in Nursing and became a board-certified family nurse practitioner in 2013. She completed a post-master certificate in 2021 as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 17 years of experience in health care in many practice areas including acute care hospitals, nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and outpatient clinics.
(469) 393-7232 View (469) 393-7232
Photo of Misty McNabb, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Misty McNabb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
One of Misty’s standout attributes is her ability to establish meaningful connections with patients and provide them with essential support. Her exceptional communication skills enable effective interactions with patients and families fostering a collaborative and compassionate environment. Misty willingly shares her insights and expertise, making her a valuable resource to both colleagues and those in her care. Misty prioritizes safety, consistently ensuring the well-being of her patients, and takes a holistic approach when making decisions. Misty enjoys working with both adolescents and adults.
One of Misty’s standout attributes is her ability to establish meaningful connections with patients and provide them with essential support. Her exceptional communication skills enable effective interactions with patients and families fostering a collaborative and compassionate environment. Misty willingly shares her insights and expertise, making her a valuable resource to both colleagues and those in her care. Misty prioritizes safety, consistently ensuring the well-being of her patients, and takes a holistic approach when making decisions. Misty enjoys working with both adolescents and adults.
(469) 746-4923 View (469) 746-4923
Photo of Olumayowa Omoyeni, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olumayowa Omoyeni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
Mayowa Omoyeni is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from The University of Texas at Arlington and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She has experience treating individuals across the lifespan including, but not limited to those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. She believes in treating the patient as a whole, while considering mental, physical, environmental, and social factors. She is passionate about providing access to high quality mental health care.
Mayowa Omoyeni is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from The University of Texas at Arlington and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She has experience treating individuals across the lifespan including, but not limited to those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. She believes in treating the patient as a whole, while considering mental, physical, environmental, and social factors. She is passionate about providing access to high quality mental health care.
(972) 810-3644 View (972) 810-3644
Photo of Domikah Olateru-Olagbegi, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Domikah Olateru-Olagbegi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
Domikah Burks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient's unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington -- where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings
Domikah Burks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient's unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington -- where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings
(512) 855-7319 View (512) 855-7319
Photo of Domikah Burks, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Domikah Burks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
Domikah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient’s unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington — where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Domikah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient’s unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington — where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(214) 367-5281 View (214) 367-5281
Photo of Stefani Reinold, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Stefani Reinold
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Has traditional psychiatry failed you? Want a holistic, personalized approach to mental health? I'm a board certified psychiatrist who treats adolescents and adults 10 yo+. We provide a unique integrative, holistic approach to your mental health offering a comprehensive evaluation. We work collaboratively with patients to develop the most personalized treatment plan, including a balanced approach between medication management, supplement protocols, genetic and lab testing, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Has traditional psychiatry failed you? Want a holistic, personalized approach to mental health? I'm a board certified psychiatrist who treats adolescents and adults 10 yo+. We provide a unique integrative, holistic approach to your mental health offering a comprehensive evaluation. We work collaboratively with patients to develop the most personalized treatment plan, including a balanced approach between medication management, supplement protocols, genetic and lab testing, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(737) 204-3712 View (737) 204-3712
Photo of Frederic J Wilson, MD, Psychiatrist
Frederic J Wilson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Frederic Wilson is a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatry for all ages. Dr. Wilson utilizes a multidimensional approach to the mental health needs of his patients incorporating the biological, psychological, and social aspects of their lives. Dr. Wilson is board certified in both Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Frederic Wilson is a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatry for all ages. Dr. Wilson utilizes a multidimensional approach to the mental health needs of his patients incorporating the biological, psychological, and social aspects of their lives. Dr. Wilson is board certified in both Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(512) 861-8637 View (512) 861-8637

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78681
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(737) 727-2503 View (737) 727-2503
Photo of Janet Oladipo, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Oladipo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Janet Oladipo is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Janet earned her first associate degree in nursing from Albany State University, Albany, Georgia and Bachelor’s degree in nursing from University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
Janet Oladipo is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Janet earned her first associate degree in nursing from Albany State University, Albany, Georgia and Bachelor’s degree in nursing from University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
(254) 274-6924 View (254) 274-6924
Photo of Lejla Medic, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lejla Medic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746
Mental health, happiness, and healing is attainable for everyone. By building a genuine connection with my clients, we create a treatment plan together to address their unique needs. My focus is on holistic, integrative care through the use of medications, psychotherapy, and promoting healthy lifestyle shifts. I strive to create an inclusive, safe environment for all.
Mental health, happiness, and healing is attainable for everyone. By building a genuine connection with my clients, we create a treatment plan together to address their unique needs. My focus is on holistic, integrative care through the use of medications, psychotherapy, and promoting healthy lifestyle shifts. I strive to create an inclusive, safe environment for all.
(512) 270-1105 View (512) 270-1105
Photo of Felicia Ihenaka - Passion Mental Health Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Passion Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with my extensive background working in psychiatric setting and advanced training in psychiatry care, I have passion providing comprehensive mental health care to patients of various groups. Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, helpless, hopeless, hear voices or see things? Are you dealing with anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, intrusive thoughts, procrastination, lack concentration/ focus, inattentive and hyperactive behaviors? Are you diagnosed with schizophrenia, Obsessive compulsive disorders, Bipolar disorders? Don't give up! . Here is the right place for you.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with my extensive background working in psychiatric setting and advanced training in psychiatry care, I have passion providing comprehensive mental health care to patients of various groups. Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, helpless, hopeless, hear voices or see things? Are you dealing with anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, intrusive thoughts, procrastination, lack concentration/ focus, inattentive and hyperactive behaviors? Are you diagnosed with schizophrenia, Obsessive compulsive disorders, Bipolar disorders? Don't give up! . Here is the right place for you.
(737) 937-6297 View (737) 937-6297
Photo of Marketa Smith, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marketa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over 15 years of experience in health care, my approach to care is both evidence-based and patient-centered. I create comprehensive, individualized care plans tailored to each client, aiming to help them become the happiest and healthiest versions of themselves.
With over 15 years of experience in health care, my approach to care is both evidence-based and patient-centered. I create comprehensive, individualized care plans tailored to each client, aiming to help them become the happiest and healthiest versions of themselves.
(929) 493-3261 View (929) 493-3261
Photo of Gabriel Obu, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
(281) 502-2790 View (281) 502-2790
Photo of Anita Padilla Weekend Availability, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, ADHDCSP, CIMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anita Padilla Weekend Availability
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, ADHDCSP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I appreciate that it can be hard to find the right fit for your mental health needs. Let's face it, you can't get any more vulnerable than asking for help for your mental health. I take your trust in me very seriously. I know first hand how difficult it can be to overcome dark times. Patients have confided in me that in the past they have often felt unheard-even dismissed. I spend the time to truly listen and understand your concerns. I work with you to identify a treatment plan you are comfortable with. The outcomes are better and remission is achieved faster if you work together with a provider you trust to achieve your goals.
I appreciate that it can be hard to find the right fit for your mental health needs. Let's face it, you can't get any more vulnerable than asking for help for your mental health. I take your trust in me very seriously. I know first hand how difficult it can be to overcome dark times. Patients have confided in me that in the past they have often felt unheard-even dismissed. I spend the time to truly listen and understand your concerns. I work with you to identify a treatment plan you are comfortable with. The outcomes are better and remission is achieved faster if you work together with a provider you trust to achieve your goals.
(361) 494-5486 View (361) 494-5486
Photo of Jessica Boice, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jessica Boice
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
What drew me to become a physician assistant was to help my patients feel heard. I strive to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients to develop a treatment plan that maximizes personal growth and health outcomes. My care philosophy takes a three-pronged approach; by combining therapy, non-pharmacological modalities, and medical management, I can help you feel more adjusted and capable to conquer life.
What drew me to become a physician assistant was to help my patients feel heard. I strive to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients to develop a treatment plan that maximizes personal growth and health outcomes. My care philosophy takes a three-pronged approach; by combining therapy, non-pharmacological modalities, and medical management, I can help you feel more adjusted and capable to conquer life.
(737) 510-7884 View (737) 510-7884
Photo of Aaron Cummins, LCSW, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aaron Cummins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
(210) 972-0736 View (210) 972-0736
Westlake Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
(737) 530-7904 View (737) 530-7904

See more therapy options for 78737

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78737

10+

Psychiatrists in 78737 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
90% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% ADHD
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
80% Women's Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 78737 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78737?

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.