Psychiatrists in 78748

We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks (sometimes the same week!). We have 4.9 star average of over 300+ reviews (on our website). Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks (sometimes the same week!). We have 4.9 star average of over 300+ reviews (on our website). Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.

healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.

Everest is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background in Functional Medicine and integrative wellness interventions. She deeply cares about each of her patients and devotes her time to working closely with each of them to address their individual needs. Knowing the importance of the brain-body connection, Everest addresses the body as a whole to optimize health and wellness. If you are struggling mentally, emotionally, or physically, Everest is here to help you regain your life.
Everest is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background in Functional Medicine and integrative wellness interventions. She deeply cares about each of her patients and devotes her time to working closely with each of them to address their individual needs. Knowing the importance of the brain-body connection, Everest addresses the body as a whole to optimize health and wellness. If you are struggling mentally, emotionally, or physically, Everest is here to help you regain your life.

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.

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.

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.

Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.
Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.

Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.

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.

Navigating ADHD, anxiety, and depression can feel overwhelming, yet understanding and support can significantly change this journey. My practice focuses on offering personalized care to those facing these challenges. By acknowledging each individual's unique experiences and needs, we aim to create effective strategies that enhance focus, ease anxiety, and uplift spirits. Together, we can pave a path towards a more balanced and fulfilling life, embracing both the hurdles and the victories along the way
Navigating ADHD, anxiety, and depression can feel overwhelming, yet understanding and support can significantly change this journey. My practice focuses on offering personalized care to those facing these challenges. By acknowledging each individual's unique experiences and needs, we aim to create effective strategies that enhance focus, ease anxiety, and uplift spirits. Together, we can pave a path towards a more balanced and fulfilling life, embracing both the hurdles and the victories along the way

Welcome! I am committed to comprehensive mental health care. I work collaboratively with each individual to customized the goals and interventions of those I serve. I am ready to devote my time, training, and attention to optimize your plan. As a psychiatrist, I use a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and therapies for treatment and often collaborate with outside providers. I began my post-graduate education at Occidental College, where I was honored Phi Beta Kappa with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychobiology. I then moved on to earn my Doctorate of Medicine from Harvard Medical School.
Welcome! I am committed to comprehensive mental health care. I work collaboratively with each individual to customized the goals and interventions of those I serve. I am ready to devote my time, training, and attention to optimize your plan. As a psychiatrist, I use a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and therapies for treatment and often collaborate with outside providers. I began my post-graduate education at Occidental College, where I was honored Phi Beta Kappa with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychobiology. I then moved on to earn my Doctorate of Medicine from Harvard Medical School.

I am Board Certified in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my residency and fellowship training here in Austin, Texas at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. I work with children, adolescents and young adults (age 4-40) using both psychotherapy and medications. I have special interest in Anxiety Disorders but I have experience working with a wide range of diagnoses. For more information about my practice, including fees, schedule etc. please visit my website. I am not currently accepting any insurance plans.
I am Board Certified in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my residency and fellowship training here in Austin, Texas at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. I work with children, adolescents and young adults (age 4-40) using both psychotherapy and medications. I have special interest in Anxiety Disorders but I have experience working with a wide range of diagnoses. For more information about my practice, including fees, schedule etc. please visit my website. I am not currently accepting any insurance plans.

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.

Dr. Weiss believes in meeting people where they are and custom-tailoring a plan to meet their specific concerns. He works with each individual and their family members as well as other medical treatment providers to create a plan that meets their needs. For some, this may include medication management whereas others require psychotherapy and finally certain patients may do best with both.
Dr. Weiss believes in meeting people where they are and custom-tailoring a plan to meet their specific concerns. He works with each individual and their family members as well as other medical treatment providers to create a plan that meets their needs. For some, this may include medication management whereas others require psychotherapy and finally certain patients may do best with both.

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

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

Pooja’s priority is to help her patients feel better mentally and physically. She is dedicated to creating a customized treatment plan that caters to each patient’s individual needs. She believes it is important that the patient feels comfortable, heard and safe when receiving mental health services. Having the privilege to help improve one’s health journey is something she deeply values. She makes it a priority to collaborate with your therapist to ensure you have the best team of clinicians to guide and maximize patient centered care. PLEASE note: I do not prescribe stimulants like Adderall.
Pooja’s priority is to help her patients feel better mentally and physically. She is dedicated to creating a customized treatment plan that caters to each patient’s individual needs. She believes it is important that the patient feels comfortable, heard and safe when receiving mental health services. Having the privilege to help improve one’s health journey is something she deeply values. She makes it a priority to collaborate with your therapist to ensure you have the best team of clinicians to guide and maximize patient centered care. PLEASE note: I do not prescribe stimulants like Adderall.

Hi, I’m Wes Mills, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use, and psychotic disorders. My background includes working in inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as telemedicine, which allows me to meet people where they are—both literally and emotionally.
Hi, I’m Wes Mills, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use, and psychotic disorders. My background includes working in inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as telemedicine, which allows me to meet people where they are—both literally and emotionally.

Welcome! Dr. Riley is board certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. She provides psychopharmacology for patients in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1999 and completed her residency and fellowship at The University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 2004. She has been in practice in Austin, Texas since 2004. To find out more about her practice, please visit her website.
Welcome! Dr. Riley is board certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. She provides psychopharmacology for patients in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1999 and completed her residency and fellowship at The University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 2004. She has been in practice in Austin, Texas since 2004. To find out more about her practice, please visit her website.

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.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 78748
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 78748 who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
92% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 78748 see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 78748?
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.