Psychiatrists in Allen, TX

Photo of Brittany Huckaby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittany Huckaby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Allen, TX 75013
My ideal client is someone struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or mood disorders who hasn’t found relief with traditional methods. They seek effective, innovative treatments like TMS, Ketamine infusions, or Spravato to finally achieve the breakthrough they need. Their goal is to regain control over their life, improve their mental health, and experience a renewed sense of hope and well-being. They want compassionate care that delivers real results and helps them move forward.
My ideal client is someone struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or mood disorders who hasn’t found relief with traditional methods. They seek effective, innovative treatments like TMS, Ketamine infusions, or Spravato to finally achieve the breakthrough they need. Their goal is to regain control over their life, improve their mental health, and experience a renewed sense of hope and well-being. They want compassionate care that delivers real results and helps them move forward.
(469) 557-4775 View (469) 557-4775
Jawad Riaz
Psychiatrist, MD
Allen, TX 75013
At Eximious Psychiatry, we strive to deliver state-of-the-art psychiatric services to our clients with a wide range of mental health disorders including but not limited to the treatment-resistant major depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, schizoaffective disorder, alcohol and substance abuse treatment, OCD, ADHD in adults and in children and adolescents. We also specialize in delivering services for trauma therapy, marital issues, life coaching skills and other behavioral health issues.
At Eximious Psychiatry, we strive to deliver state-of-the-art psychiatric services to our clients with a wide range of mental health disorders including but not limited to the treatment-resistant major depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, schizoaffective disorder, alcohol and substance abuse treatment, OCD, ADHD in adults and in children and adolescents. We also specialize in delivering services for trauma therapy, marital issues, life coaching skills and other behavioral health issues.
(469) 430-2577 View (469) 430-2577
Photo of Dr. Taiye Popoola, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, PMH-C
Dr. Taiye Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, PMH-C
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I am a Board Certified General Psychiatrist, Perinatal Psychiatrist, and Sleep Medicine Specialist. I am accepting NEW Patients and have availability within 48hrs. I provide compassionate and patient centered care using medication management and brief psychotherapeutic interventions to help my patients overcome their mental health struggles.
I am a Board Certified General Psychiatrist, Perinatal Psychiatrist, and Sleep Medicine Specialist. I am accepting NEW Patients and have availability within 48hrs. I provide compassionate and patient centered care using medication management and brief psychotherapeutic interventions to help my patients overcome their mental health struggles.
(972) 433-7337 View (972) 433-7337
Photo of Simmerpreet Kaur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Simmerpreet Kaur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Allen, TX 75002
If you're waking up each day feeling like it's a battle just to move forward… please know, you’re not alone. Maybe it's the weight of anxiety that never seems to lift. Or the numbness of depression that makes even simple tasks feel impossible. Perhaps it's a deep sadness, a sense of emptiness, or something you can’t even put into words. Whatever you’re facing, your pain is real, and it deserves attention, not silence. You might be feeling tired of pretending you're okay. Tired of struggling alone. But reaching out is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. It means you’re ready for things to change.
If you're waking up each day feeling like it's a battle just to move forward… please know, you’re not alone. Maybe it's the weight of anxiety that never seems to lift. Or the numbness of depression that makes even simple tasks feel impossible. Perhaps it's a deep sadness, a sense of emptiness, or something you can’t even put into words. Whatever you’re facing, your pain is real, and it deserves attention, not silence. You might be feeling tired of pretending you're okay. Tired of struggling alone. But reaching out is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. It means you’re ready for things to change.
(469) 966-7935 View (469) 966-7935
Photo of Yana Bekker, Psychiatrist, DO
Yana Bekker
Psychiatrist, DO
Allen, TX 75013
Dr Yana Bekker offers a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health. As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Bekker's focus is on the whole person. Treatment highlights optimizing your overall well-being. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, maternal mental health and postpartum recovery.
Dr Yana Bekker offers a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health. As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Bekker's focus is on the whole person. Treatment highlights optimizing your overall well-being. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, maternal mental health and postpartum recovery.
(718) 869-4700 View (718) 869-4700
Photo of M. Rehan Puri, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
M. Rehan Puri
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Allen, TX 75013
Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed? Do you have problems focusing in school, work or life? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss? Are you fallen into using drugs or alcohol? Is your child defiant & refusing to cooperate? I can help you find that right balance so you can continue living your life optimally;.I am here to listen to you and treat you with honor and respect that you deserve. Life can be tough so talk to a doctor who will not only listen to you but help you. I do Individual therapy, medication managements, office based SUBOXONE, crisis and long term personalized treatments.
Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed? Do you have problems focusing in school, work or life? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss? Are you fallen into using drugs or alcohol? Is your child defiant & refusing to cooperate? I can help you find that right balance so you can continue living your life optimally;.I am here to listen to you and treat you with honor and respect that you deserve. Life can be tough so talk to a doctor who will not only listen to you but help you. I do Individual therapy, medication managements, office based SUBOXONE, crisis and long term personalized treatments.
(938) 253-3228 View (938) 253-3228
Photo of Cartrina Danner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cartrina Danner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Schedule appointment online with just a few clicks at www.allenpsychiatry.com. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working under supervision of a board-certified Psychiatrist, Shahla Ali, MD.
Schedule appointment online with just a few clicks at www.allenpsychiatry.com. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working under supervision of a board-certified Psychiatrist, Shahla Ali, MD.
(972) 914-0767 View (972) 914-0767
Photo of Victor Zamora, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Victor Zamora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Victor is a board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients ranging from ages 8 to adults. We strive to help those suffering with mental illness issues and to give them a better quality of life. We are invested in helping you feel your very best by supporting your personal growth, insight and self-empowerment.
Victor is a board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients ranging from ages 8 to adults. We strive to help those suffering with mental illness issues and to give them a better quality of life. We are invested in helping you feel your very best by supporting your personal growth, insight and self-empowerment.
(214) 225-1986 View (214) 225-1986
Photo of Tiffany Freeman-Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Tiffany Freeman-Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
5 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Are you feeling disconnected from the things and people that matter most? Struggling with guilt, low motivation, or irritability? Maybe everything feels like it's just too much to handle right now. Whether you're navigating pregnancy, postpartum changes, relationship challenges, or just the weight of everyday life, these feelings can leave you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. I help high-achieving adults—including entertainment professionals, their partners, and those on the reproductive journey—overcome anxiety, depression, and mood swings to restore balance, spark motivation, and reconnect with themselves and others.
Are you feeling disconnected from the things and people that matter most? Struggling with guilt, low motivation, or irritability? Maybe everything feels like it's just too much to handle right now. Whether you're navigating pregnancy, postpartum changes, relationship challenges, or just the weight of everyday life, these feelings can leave you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. I help high-achieving adults—including entertainment professionals, their partners, and those on the reproductive journey—overcome anxiety, depression, and mood swings to restore balance, spark motivation, and reconnect with themselves and others.
(972) 994-1549 View (972) 994-1549
Photo of Emery Chapa - Emery Chapa, PMHNP at Allen Psychiatry, TMS & IOP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Emery Chapa, PMHNP at Allen Psychiatry, TMS & IOP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with clinical experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adolescents and adults. In conjunction with Shahla Ali, MD, I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity, Major Depression, Bipolar, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorders. We are now providing one of the most advanced FDA cleared treatments for depression including NeuroStar TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) Nasal Spray
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with clinical experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adolescents and adults. In conjunction with Shahla Ali, MD, I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity, Major Depression, Bipolar, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorders. We are now providing one of the most advanced FDA cleared treatments for depression including NeuroStar TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) Nasal Spray
(214) 643-8394 View (214) 643-8394
Photo of Randall Wade McIntyre - Dr Randall McIntyre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall McIntyre has been practicing Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in the Austin area for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA- biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School-Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residencies in General and Child Psychiatry at UTHSC-Houston. He is doubly Boarded in Child and Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Randall McIntyre has been practicing Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in the Austin area for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA- biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School-Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residencies in General and Child Psychiatry at UTHSC-Houston. He is doubly Boarded in Child and Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(214) 974-4081 View (214) 974-4081
Photo of Shahla Ali - Shahla Ali, MD at Allen Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Shahla Ali, MD at Allen Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Schedule appointment online with just a few clicks at www.allenpsychiatry.com . Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, we are providing virtual/telemedicine visits for all appointments except TMS and Spravato treatments. Do you have a concern about a psychiatric or mental health issue? Do you need advice and diagnosis? Do you need medication management of an already diagnosed issue? We now provide TMS Therapy - an FDA cleared treatment for patients suffering from depression who have not achieved satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant treatment. TMS stands for “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.” (TMS).
Schedule appointment online with just a few clicks at www.allenpsychiatry.com . Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, we are providing virtual/telemedicine visits for all appointments except TMS and Spravato treatments. Do you have a concern about a psychiatric or mental health issue? Do you need advice and diagnosis? Do you need medication management of an already diagnosed issue? We now provide TMS Therapy - an FDA cleared treatment for patients suffering from depression who have not achieved satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant treatment. TMS stands for “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.” (TMS).
(469) 203-4069 View (469) 203-4069
Photo of Jenny Haney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jenny Haney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I am Jenny Haney, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years of experience treating adolescents and adults in outpatient and inpatient settings. I take pride in building lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients to provide confident, high-quality care. I provide a thorough evaluation by utilizing excellent communication and interpersonal skills to diagnose and develop a treatment plan based on a conservative approach to medication management while integrating psychotherapy. Take the first step towards mental wellness and schedule an appointment with me today.
I am Jenny Haney, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years of experience treating adolescents and adults in outpatient and inpatient settings. I take pride in building lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients to provide confident, high-quality care. I provide a thorough evaluation by utilizing excellent communication and interpersonal skills to diagnose and develop a treatment plan based on a conservative approach to medication management while integrating psychotherapy. Take the first step towards mental wellness and schedule an appointment with me today.
(469) 414-0893 View (469) 414-0893
Photo of Christal Carr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Christal Carr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Allen, TX 75013
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide a holistic approach that focuses on each client’s overall well-being. I work with patients ages eight and older, offering personalized care for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide a holistic approach that focuses on each client’s overall well-being. I work with patients ages eight and older, offering personalized care for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
(972) 449-5611 View (972) 449-5611
Photo of Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, Psychiatrist, MD
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
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.
(726) 227-1205 View (726) 227-1205
Photo of Dr. Oluwole Popoola - Dr. Oluwole Popoola - Zoe Psychiatry & Sleep Med, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
I am board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I am currently accepting NEW patients with wait times of 1-5 DAYS . If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use or any other mental health issues, and you are looking for an empathic professional who can understand and meet you where you are, then reach out to me. I will conduct a detailed and unrushed evaluation that focuses on understanding your symptoms and creating treatment plan that is unique to YOU in order to successfully get you from where you are to where you want to be.
I am board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I am currently accepting NEW patients with wait times of 1-5 DAYS . If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use or any other mental health issues, and you are looking for an empathic professional who can understand and meet you where you are, then reach out to me. I will conduct a detailed and unrushed evaluation that focuses on understanding your symptoms and creating treatment plan that is unique to YOU in order to successfully get you from where you are to where you want to be.
(972) 779-9081 View (972) 779-9081
Photo of Messay Oshe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Messay Oshe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Allen, TX 75013
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to treat patients with mental health disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in managing medications and treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. My approach is grounded in a humanistic philosophy that values holistic care for mind, body, and spirit, along with personalized, culturally sensitive treatment.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to treat patients with mental health disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in managing medications and treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. My approach is grounded in a humanistic philosophy that values holistic care for mind, body, and spirit, along with personalized, culturally sensitive treatment.
(469) 409-6433 View (469) 409-6433
Photo of Osayande Alfred-Iyamu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRRN, PMHNP
Osayande Alfred-Iyamu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Psychiatry is a field that demands not only medical knowledge but also Psychiatry is a field that requires not only medical knowledge but also emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. My education has provided me with experiences that have deepened my understanding of mental health. I am inspired by the diversity within the field and the opportunity to help those in need while advocating for vulnerable populations. I am drawn to the privilege of assisting patients in making sense of their experiences and empowering them to find meaning and recovery through thoughtful interventions.
Psychiatry is a field that demands not only medical knowledge but also Psychiatry is a field that requires not only medical knowledge but also emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. My education has provided me with experiences that have deepened my understanding of mental health. I am inspired by the diversity within the field and the opportunity to help those in need while advocating for vulnerable populations. I am drawn to the privilege of assisting patients in making sense of their experiences and empowering them to find meaning and recovery through thoughtful interventions.
(469) 746-3592 View (469) 746-3592
Photo of Rhoda Madamombe - Rhoda Madamombe - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRNCNP
Rhoda Madamombe - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRNCNP
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Rhoda Madamombe is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN, PMHNP-BC) and a member of the American Psychiatric Association. She graduated from Wilkes University and has been in the field of psychiatry since 2004. Rhoda has worked in psychiatric hospitals all her career. She worked for Medical City McKinney for 12 years holding various positions that include staff nurse, charge nurse, clinical supervisor, and nurse manager/PMHNP-BC.
Rhoda Madamombe is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN, PMHNP-BC) and a member of the American Psychiatric Association. She graduated from Wilkes University and has been in the field of psychiatry since 2004. Rhoda has worked in psychiatric hospitals all her career. She worked for Medical City McKinney for 12 years holding various positions that include staff nurse, charge nurse, clinical supervisor, and nurse manager/PMHNP-BC.
(469) 772-9671 View (469) 772-9671
Photo of Jillian Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jillian Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Allen, TX 75013
WatersEdge Psychiatry, established & directed by Jillian Adams, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over ten years of committed experience as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a recently inaugurated private practice as of February 1, 2024. Jillian Adams is dedicated to a patient-centered approach in mental health care. She believes in the power of attentive listening & collaborative engagement with her patients. Jillian takes the time to understand each patient's unique journey & works with them to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their individual needs & values.
WatersEdge Psychiatry, established & directed by Jillian Adams, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over ten years of committed experience as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a recently inaugurated private practice as of February 1, 2024. Jillian Adams is dedicated to a patient-centered approach in mental health care. She believes in the power of attentive listening & collaborative engagement with her patients. Jillian takes the time to understand each patient's unique journey & works with them to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their individual needs & values.
(972) 597-2501 View (972) 597-2501

See more therapy options for Allen

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Allen, TX

40+

Average cost per session

$210

Psychiatrists in Allen, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
84% Medication Management
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Bipolar Disorder
63% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% BlueCross and BlueShield
95% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Allen, TX see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Allen?

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.