Psychiatrists in Texas

I help high-achieving professionals, families, teens, and children facing anxiety, ADHD,Anxiety, Depression,PTSD,Mood Disorders,and MAT-Substance Abuse,and other mental health challenges.My clients often feel overwhelmed,stuck,or out of balance,and they want clarity,relief, and meaningful change.As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with a decade of experience,I offer compassionate,evidence-based care tailored to your unique story.I believe speed matters,which is why I offer same-day appointments.Together,we’ll build a treatment plan that supports healing,growth,and lasting emotional wellness.Let’s begin your journey today.
I help high-achieving professionals, families, teens, and children facing anxiety, ADHD,Anxiety, Depression,PTSD,Mood Disorders,and MAT-Substance Abuse,and other mental health challenges.My clients often feel overwhelmed,stuck,or out of balance,and they want clarity,relief, and meaningful change.As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with a decade of experience,I offer compassionate,evidence-based care tailored to your unique story.I believe speed matters,which is why I offer same-day appointments.Together,we’ll build a treatment plan that supports healing,growth,and lasting emotional wellness.Let’s begin your journey today.

We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.

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.

Are you scared, suffering, and feeling lonely? Do you want someone to talk to you? Someone to listen? I am here. You don’t have to walk Your health journey alone. Let me be your Provider. Mental health is REAL. I will listen. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. A plan to target your needs. I will treat you as an individual and make a customized plan just for you. I have over 7 years experience as a health care provider with diverse skills and experience . I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am a dual-licensed NP as PMHNP & FNP. I also work closely with a Clinical therapist
Are you scared, suffering, and feeling lonely? Do you want someone to talk to you? Someone to listen? I am here. You don’t have to walk Your health journey alone. Let me be your Provider. Mental health is REAL. I will listen. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. A plan to target your needs. I will treat you as an individual and make a customized plan just for you. I have over 7 years experience as a health care provider with diverse skills and experience . I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am a dual-licensed NP as PMHNP & FNP. I also work closely with a Clinical therapist

Living with Mental health condition can be frustrating and nerve-wracking. As a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to treat my client as a whole, while considering their physical and mental environment by utilizing a multidimensional evidence-based practice. My goal is to ensure that my clients become better mentally, physically, emotionally, and generally improve their quality of life. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and safe environment for clients to air out their problems and worries about life without feeling anxious or stigmatized. I believe in the saying; a healthy mind is the greatest treasure to find.
Living with Mental health condition can be frustrating and nerve-wracking. As a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to treat my client as a whole, while considering their physical and mental environment by utilizing a multidimensional evidence-based practice. My goal is to ensure that my clients become better mentally, physically, emotionally, and generally improve their quality of life. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and safe environment for clients to air out their problems and worries about life without feeling anxious or stigmatized. I believe in the saying; a healthy mind is the greatest treasure to find.

I’m a dual board-certified provider… FNP and PMHNP-BC and over 8 years of experience working with all ages. I have been working as an APRN in various positions as a Family Nurse Practitioner and transitioned to the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role, providing psychiatric and medical care to a large population across the lifespan with multiple medical problems. Please note that while I’m here to support your mental health needs, I do not prescribe controlled substances.
I’m a dual board-certified provider… FNP and PMHNP-BC and over 8 years of experience working with all ages. I have been working as an APRN in various positions as a Family Nurse Practitioner and transitioned to the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role, providing psychiatric and medical care to a large population across the lifespan with multiple medical problems. Please note that while I’m here to support your mental health needs, I do not prescribe controlled substances.

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.

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.

Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these

Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.

Eric D. Seilhamer Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.

Dr. Escamilla is a graduate of Harvard College and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his psychiatry training at the University of California at San Francisco and also completed a research fellowship with the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Escamilla is a graduate of Harvard College and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his psychiatry training at the University of California at San Francisco and also completed a research fellowship with the American Psychiatric Association.

I’m an Osteopathic Physician and Integrative & Sports Psychiatrist. I provide high-caliber whole-person psychiatry for executives, professionals, and athletes—so you can sharpen the mind, defeat self-limiting patterns, and perform under pressure. Using integrative psychiatry, combined with sensible med management, build resilience & leverage your inner strength through the mind-body-brain connection. I help you climb to the next level. I also have a passion for helping high-functioning neurodivergent folks and survivors of narcissistic family members reclaim a center of self, improve mood confidence and well-being.
I’m an Osteopathic Physician and Integrative & Sports Psychiatrist. I provide high-caliber whole-person psychiatry for executives, professionals, and athletes—so you can sharpen the mind, defeat self-limiting patterns, and perform under pressure. Using integrative psychiatry, combined with sensible med management, build resilience & leverage your inner strength through the mind-body-brain connection. I help you climb to the next level. I also have a passion for helping high-functioning neurodivergent folks and survivors of narcissistic family members reclaim a center of self, improve mood confidence and well-being.

Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.

Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.

Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. I'm Eva Kirara, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a rich background in ICU nursing and mental health advocacy. Inspired by personal experiences and my work with patients in critical care, I understand the importance of being heard and supported. Serving adults 18 to 60, I provide a safe, empathetic space where we can navigate your journey toward emotional well-being together.
Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. I'm Eva Kirara, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a rich background in ICU nursing and mental health advocacy. Inspired by personal experiences and my work with patients in critical care, I understand the importance of being heard and supported. Serving adults 18 to 60, I provide a safe, empathetic space where we can navigate your journey toward emotional well-being together.

Accepting New Patients from Texas! ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Accepting New Patients from Texas! ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.

Since beginning my career in nursing, I have been deeply moved by the resilience of individuals grappling with mental health challenges. My journey from a registered nurse to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner has been driven by a profound commitment to improving mental health care and advocating for those who often face stigma and isolation. I am excited to begin this commitment and have a positive impact on individuals’ mental well-being. I am passionate about helping people navigate through life who may feel alone or having difficulty finding a balance in life.
Since beginning my career in nursing, I have been deeply moved by the resilience of individuals grappling with mental health challenges. My journey from a registered nurse to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner has been driven by a profound commitment to improving mental health care and advocating for those who often face stigma and isolation. I am excited to begin this commitment and have a positive impact on individuals’ mental well-being. I am passionate about helping people navigate through life who may feel alone or having difficulty finding a balance in life.

Tracee Lucas is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas with more than 20 years of nursing experience. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at William Carey College and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio. Tracee believes that healing is very individually based; thus, no two people require the same treatment. She feels the mind, body, and soul work in conjunction for your healing.
Tracee Lucas is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas with more than 20 years of nursing experience. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at William Carey College and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio. Tracee believes that healing is very individually based; thus, no two people require the same treatment. She feels the mind, body, and soul work in conjunction for your healing.

Hello, I’m Dr. Selek, and I’m here to guide you through the intricate world of mental health. With over a decade in academic psychiatry, my mission is to offer personalized, evidence-based treatments empowering you to regain control of your mental well-being. As a dedicated physician and accomplished scholar, I've authored 100+ articles, book chapters, and scientific presentations. I wholeheartedly believe in a practice where third parties don’t dictate the course of treatment or compromise the quality of care our patients receive.
Hello, I’m Dr. Selek, and I’m here to guide you through the intricate world of mental health. With over a decade in academic psychiatry, my mission is to offer personalized, evidence-based treatments empowering you to regain control of your mental well-being. As a dedicated physician and accomplished scholar, I've authored 100+ articles, book chapters, and scientific presentations. I wholeheartedly believe in a practice where third parties don’t dictate the course of treatment or compromise the quality of care our patients receive.
See more therapy options for Texas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Texas who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | ADHD |
73% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Texas see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
25% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Texas?
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.