Psychiatrists in 78749

Photo of Kathy Mucha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kathy Mucha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.
When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.
(737) 265-5759 View (737) 265-5759
Photo of Lindsey Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(737) 260-5121 View (737) 260-5121
Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
(737) 278-7267 View (737) 278-7267
Photo of Kristen Dale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kristen Dale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Is life leaving you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with your mental health? Perhaps you suspect a diagnosis or have received one, but want to feel more empowered in your choices for care. I'd like to work with you! I offer a holistic approach to address not just symptoms but root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives. I’m here to support every step of the journey.
Is life leaving you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with your mental health? Perhaps you suspect a diagnosis or have received one, but want to feel more empowered in your choices for care. I'd like to work with you! I offer a holistic approach to address not just symptoms but root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives. I’m here to support every step of the journey.
(512) 886-8506 View (512) 886-8506
Photo of Lauren Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lauren Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
When I shifted from ER nursing to psychiatry, I discovered the power of lasting patient relationships. After years managing acute trauma, I now deeply value building ongoing connections, helping patients overcome challenges with compassion and empathy. My goal is not just to medicate but to understand your whole story—home life, work stress, and underlying struggles. Whether managing ADHD, anxiety, or complex conditions, I'm here to partner with you, addressing root causes and helping you find sustainable relief and meaningful progress.
When I shifted from ER nursing to psychiatry, I discovered the power of lasting patient relationships. After years managing acute trauma, I now deeply value building ongoing connections, helping patients overcome challenges with compassion and empathy. My goal is not just to medicate but to understand your whole story—home life, work stress, and underlying struggles. Whether managing ADHD, anxiety, or complex conditions, I'm here to partner with you, addressing root causes and helping you find sustainable relief and meaningful progress.
(737) 221-2736 View (737) 221-2736
Photo of Dana Ebeling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Dana Ebeling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life’s journey can be challenging, but with resilience and support, you can move forward. I work with individuals who seek a holistic approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing PTSD, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I have a background working with seniors, people with complex diagnoses, those who have been diagnosed with terminal illness, and caregivers taken care of aging or ailing loved ones. Through life's toughest journeys mental health support is essential.
Life’s journey can be challenging, but with resilience and support, you can move forward. I work with individuals who seek a holistic approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing PTSD, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I have a background working with seniors, people with complex diagnoses, those who have been diagnosed with terminal illness, and caregivers taken care of aging or ailing loved ones. Through life's toughest journeys mental health support is essential.
(512) 883-8951 View (512) 883-8951
Photo of Nina Herring, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nina Herring
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
(737) 387-5081 View (737) 387-5081
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
(737) 201-2706 View (737) 201-2706
Photo of Dayna Kinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dayna Kinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
(737) 379-1209 View (737) 379-1209
Photo of Bettina Cordova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bettina Cordova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
(512) 877-7896 View (512) 877-7896
Photo of Naomi Nyabuto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Naomi Nyabuto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(512) 866-1278 View (512) 866-1278
Photo of Arif Noorbaksh, Psychiatrist, MD
Arif Noorbaksh
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I want to meet you where you are on your path —no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a more in-depth approach. We’ll develop a plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real healing and renewed hope for your well-being.
I want to meet you where you are on your path —no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a more in-depth approach. We’ll develop a plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real healing and renewed hope for your well-being.
(469) 437-9400 View (469) 437-9400
Photo of Sirat K. Chehal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sirat K. Chehal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Welcome! Finding acceptance, purpose and joy can feel impossible when anxiety or depression prevents you from being the best version of yourself. Anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mental or behavioral disorders impact not only ourselves but those around us. If you or your child struggle with these issues, I would like to help. I understand we are each unique in our background, culture, traditions, life experiences and expectations. I am non-judgmental, empathetic, and want to meet you where you are in life. Having traveled my own mental health journey, I am committed to helping others find happiness and self-acceptance.
Welcome! Finding acceptance, purpose and joy can feel impossible when anxiety or depression prevents you from being the best version of yourself. Anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mental or behavioral disorders impact not only ourselves but those around us. If you or your child struggle with these issues, I would like to help. I understand we are each unique in our background, culture, traditions, life experiences and expectations. I am non-judgmental, empathetic, and want to meet you where you are in life. Having traveled my own mental health journey, I am committed to helping others find happiness and self-acceptance.
(737) 238-1193 View (737) 238-1193
Photo of Christine Masuda - Chris Masuda MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Christine Masuda is the psychiatric medical director of the Austin location of Sigma. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited in person services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
Dr. Christine Masuda is the psychiatric medical director of the Austin location of Sigma. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited in person services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
(737) 302-5812 View (737) 302-5812
Photo of Terry Van Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry Austin - We Are Open!, Psychiatrist
If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Austin, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan.
If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Austin, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan.
(512) 746-7283 View (512) 746-7283
Photo of Lisa J Beisel - Dr. Beisel Austin Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Beisel Austin Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Hi and welcome to my practice. I strive to do a comprehensive psychiatric assessment that looks at the whole person (Adults 22-64), including their strengths, their history and the goals they may have. While I primarily do med assessments, I also use interpersonal and cognitive techniques to help the person arrive at the goal of Better mental health! All are unique and have had a different journey ....some stand in their own way, and we use a collaborative approach to help the patient self assess , and maintain an improved self , more confident and insightful and assisting in their own mental health needs .
Hi and welcome to my practice. I strive to do a comprehensive psychiatric assessment that looks at the whole person (Adults 22-64), including their strengths, their history and the goals they may have. While I primarily do med assessments, I also use interpersonal and cognitive techniques to help the person arrive at the goal of Better mental health! All are unique and have had a different journey ....some stand in their own way, and we use a collaborative approach to help the patient self assess , and maintain an improved self , more confident and insightful and assisting in their own mental health needs .
(844) 929-2265 View (844) 929-2265
Photo of Joshua Freedman - HealthPiper, Psychiatrist
HealthPiper
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
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.
(737) 260-5258 View (737) 260-5258

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Eva Kirara - Connected Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Connected Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Austin, TX 78704
When you’re battling depression, even searching for help can feel exhausting. Maybe you’ve tried therapy or medications that didn’t work. Maybe past providers didn’t listen or left you feeling like just another name on a chart. We get it—and we do things differently. At Legion Health, we take a personalized, results-driven approach to depression treatment, combining evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care tailored to you. Appointments are available within a week, and getting started is simple. You don’t have to struggle alone—real relief is possible, and we’re here to help.
When you’re battling depression, even searching for help can feel exhausting. Maybe you’ve tried therapy or medications that didn’t work. Maybe past providers didn’t listen or left you feeling like just another name on a chart. We get it—and we do things differently. At Legion Health, we take a personalized, results-driven approach to depression treatment, combining evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care tailored to you. Appointments are available within a week, and getting started is simple. You don’t have to struggle alone—real relief is possible, and we’re here to help.
(737) 371-8746 View (737) 371-8746
Photo of Shazar Khan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety that keeps you up at night? Feeling trapped by depression that makes even small tasks feel impossible? Maybe you're dealing with trauma that affects your relationships and daily life. You want to feel like yourself again - confident, peaceful, and in control. You're looking for genuine understanding, not just medication, and want a provider who sees you as a whole person, not just symptoms. You deserve compassionate care that actually helps you thrive.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety that keeps you up at night? Feeling trapped by depression that makes even small tasks feel impossible? Maybe you're dealing with trauma that affects your relationships and daily life. You want to feel like yourself again - confident, peaceful, and in control. You're looking for genuine understanding, not just medication, and want a provider who sees you as a whole person, not just symptoms. You deserve compassionate care that actually helps you thrive.
(737) 250-7319 View (737) 250-7319
Photo of Cathrine Guidry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cathrine Guidry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide a holistic approach to life long mental health and wellness. This comprehensive approach includes both traditional and alternative methods. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to all patients that focus on treating the whole self by utilizing the latest pharmaceutical remedies as well as lifestyle enrichment through education and realistic goal setting. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of multiple disorders and mental health conditions. It is a humbling privilege to accompany my patients on their journey to improved living.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide a holistic approach to life long mental health and wellness. This comprehensive approach includes both traditional and alternative methods. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to all patients that focus on treating the whole self by utilizing the latest pharmaceutical remedies as well as lifestyle enrichment through education and realistic goal setting. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of multiple disorders and mental health conditions. It is a humbling privilege to accompany my patients on their journey to improved living.
(682) 243-7630 View (682) 243-7630

See more therapy options for 78749

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 78749

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 78749 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
94% Bipolar Disorder
94% Medication Management
88% ADHD
88% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
88% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 78749 see their clients

76% Online Only
24% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

93% Female
7% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 78749?

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.