Psychiatrists in 79901

Photo of Nkechi Nduka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I’m Nkechi Nduka. I have over 17 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Registered Nurse. My extensive training from The University of Texas at Arlington has equipped me with specialized expertise in psychiatry, particularly with adult patients. I specialize in treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Hello! I’m Nkechi Nduka. I have over 17 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Registered Nurse. My extensive training from The University of Texas at Arlington has equipped me with specialized expertise in psychiatry, particularly with adult patients. I specialize in treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
(915) 285-4018 View (915) 285-4018
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.
(915) 666-9052 View (915) 666-9052
Photo of Acara Nesbeth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Acara Nesbeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified mental health nurse practitioner who is adept at providing care that is focused on the patient’s needs. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating adults, and geriatric clients with various mental health conditions. These conditions include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizoaffective disorders. As a devoted mental health nurse practitioner, I always ensure that I deliver expert, personalized care to each client in a nurturing environment; an environment where trust, mutual respect, and transparency are also key.
I am a Board-Certified mental health nurse practitioner who is adept at providing care that is focused on the patient’s needs. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating adults, and geriatric clients with various mental health conditions. These conditions include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizoaffective disorders. As a devoted mental health nurse practitioner, I always ensure that I deliver expert, personalized care to each client in a nurturing environment; an environment where trust, mutual respect, and transparency are also key.
(915) 268-1567 View (915) 268-1567
Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(915) 666-2578 View (915) 666-2578
Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(915) 221-7009 View (915) 221-7009
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901
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.
(915) 223-2841 View (915) 223-2841
Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
(915) 233-6788 View (915) 233-6788
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(915) 206-5350 View (915) 206-5350
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901
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.
(915) 223-2541 View (915) 223-2541
Photo of Olapeju Fakeye, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olapeju Fakeye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Olapeju "Peggy" Fakeye is a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has been working in the mental field for the past 7 years. Obtained her bachelors' from the University of Texas and a Masters from the University of Walden.
Olapeju "Peggy" Fakeye is a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has been working in the mental field for the past 7 years. Obtained her bachelors' from the University of Texas and a Masters from the University of Walden.
(915) 900-7641 View (915) 900-7641
Photo of Adetona Odunuga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adetona Odunuga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901
Ade Odunuga, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, is a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I'm quite interested in mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients in a compassionate, empathic, respectful, humble, and optimistic manner in an effort to restore dignity and eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health. I prefer to work with clients who suffer from a range of mental diseases, including bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Ade Odunuga, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, is a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I'm quite interested in mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients in a compassionate, empathic, respectful, humble, and optimistic manner in an effort to restore dignity and eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health. I prefer to work with clients who suffer from a range of mental diseases, including bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
(281) 519-2134 View (281) 519-2134
Photo of Hope Essien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hope Essien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Hope Essien DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Dr Hope is a dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have 8 years experience as a nurse practitioner and the last 5 years in mental health / psychiatric practice. I received my Masters degree from Samford University in Birmingham Alabama in 2016 and Doctor of nursing Practice from University of Massachusetts in 2020.
Dr. Hope Essien DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Dr Hope is a dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have 8 years experience as a nurse practitioner and the last 5 years in mental health / psychiatric practice. I received my Masters degree from Samford University in Birmingham Alabama in 2016 and Doctor of nursing Practice from University of Massachusetts in 2020.
(469) 747-1893 View (469) 747-1893
Photo of Keyna Omenukor, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keyna Omenukor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79901
Dr. Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose training and experience have equipped her with the necessary skill to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to optimize health outcomes. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree & Doctorate in addition to her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Brandman University.
Dr. Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose training and experience have equipped her with the necessary skill to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to optimize health outcomes. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree & Doctorate in addition to her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Brandman University.
(972) 483-2941 View (972) 483-2941
Photo of Dr. Louise Baffour-Sebeh Agyemang, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Louise Baffour-Sebeh Agyemang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, B-C
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901
Dr. Agyemang is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner currently licensed in TX, CA, CO, UT, NV & WA. She graduated from University of Texas Health Science, Houston, Texas in 2014. She has 22 years of experience in the medical field, 10 years practicing as Psychiatric & Family nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience in psychiatric mental health both in pediatric, teenagers and geriatric population and effective management of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Substance abuse and Mood Disorders.
Dr. Agyemang is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner currently licensed in TX, CA, CO, UT, NV & WA. She graduated from University of Texas Health Science, Houston, Texas in 2014. She has 22 years of experience in the medical field, 10 years practicing as Psychiatric & Family nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience in psychiatric mental health both in pediatric, teenagers and geriatric population and effective management of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Substance abuse and Mood Disorders.
(832) 219-6398 View (832) 219-6398
Photo of Augustina Ogbonna, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Augustina Ogbonna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am a licensed psych NP. I received my masters from Walden University. I am available to help evaluate and treat your mental health needs
Hello, I am a licensed psych NP. I received my masters from Walden University. I am available to help evaluate and treat your mental health needs
(469) 871-5216 View (469) 871-5216
Photo of Achie Eneh, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Achie Eneh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! Achie Eneh is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She obtained her FNP degree at South University Savannah, GA and her Post-master's PMHNP degree at Liberty University, Va. She has over 9 years experience in the nursing field providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. She is licensed in WA, OR, CO, NV, AZ, GA, MT, FL and TX.
Accepting New Clients! Achie Eneh is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She obtained her FNP degree at South University Savannah, GA and her Post-master's PMHNP degree at Liberty University, Va. She has over 9 years experience in the nursing field providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. She is licensed in WA, OR, CO, NV, AZ, GA, MT, FL and TX.
(360) 226-8529 View (360) 226-8529
Photo of Joyce Mwaniki - Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901
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.
(469) 529-8454 View (469) 529-8454
Photo of Eunice Kanu - A New You Psychiatry & Wellness Clinic LLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A New You Psychiatry & Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with feeling of sadness or lose interest in things you used to enjoy and searching for a provider who will listen and understand your needs? At A New You Psychiatry & Wellness clinic, our dedicated practitioner Eunice will listen and provide excellent & compassionate care to you with the understanding that every patient is unique. She provides individualized evidence-based mental health care making sure that your personal goals are met. She also educate and empower individuals to be actively involved in their care.
Are you struggling with feeling of sadness or lose interest in things you used to enjoy and searching for a provider who will listen and understand your needs? At A New You Psychiatry & Wellness clinic, our dedicated practitioner Eunice will listen and provide excellent & compassionate care to you with the understanding that every patient is unique. She provides individualized evidence-based mental health care making sure that your personal goals are met. She also educate and empower individuals to be actively involved in their care.
(855) 945-2177 View (855) 945-2177
Photo of Osaze Arhunmwunde, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Osaze Arhunmwunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry settings, I have acquired a comprehensive understanding of mental health conditions and treatment modalities. My experience includes conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, prescribing medications, and providing therapy to individuals across various age groups.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry settings, I have acquired a comprehensive understanding of mental health conditions and treatment modalities. My experience includes conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, prescribing medications, and providing therapy to individuals across various age groups.
(214) 817-3346 View (214) 817-3346
Photo of Holly Franke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Franke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I’m Holly Franke, PMHNP-BC based in Central Texas. I received my Master’s Degree from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for more than 3 years.
Hi, I’m Holly Franke, PMHNP-BC based in Central Texas. I received my Master’s Degree from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for more than 3 years.
(469) 606-3254 View (469) 606-3254
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See more therapy options for 79901

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 79901

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 79901 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
55% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
82% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 79901 see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 79901?

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.