Psychiatrists in Angleton, TX

Photo of Miranda Sanchez, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Miranda Sanchez
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Angleton, TX 77515
As a dedicated Psychiatric PA, my journey in mental health began with a profound interest in the complexities of human behavior and emotional well-being. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, recognizing that each patient is a unique individual with their own experiences, challenges, and strengths. My clinical experience has reinforced my commitment to patient-centered care, where I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships and fostering open communication. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where patients feel heard and valued, allowing us to collaboratively explore their concerns.
As a dedicated Psychiatric PA, my journey in mental health began with a profound interest in the complexities of human behavior and emotional well-being. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, recognizing that each patient is a unique individual with their own experiences, challenges, and strengths. My clinical experience has reinforced my commitment to patient-centered care, where I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships and fostering open communication. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where patients feel heard and valued, allowing us to collaboratively explore their concerns.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Victor Varghese, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Victor Varghese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Jackson, TX 77566  (Online Only)
At Next Level Psychiatric Care, we focus on holistic and integrative care that responds to people’s needs. I believe Psychiatric condition is something that can be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Adopting a Person-Centered approach helps to reduce stress levels and focuses on facilitating people to live independent and fulfilling lives. My goal is to help you reach your optimum level of care in mental health.
At Next Level Psychiatric Care, we focus on holistic and integrative care that responds to people’s needs. I believe Psychiatric condition is something that can be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Adopting a Person-Centered approach helps to reduce stress levels and focuses on facilitating people to live independent and fulfilling lives. My goal is to help you reach your optimum level of care in mental health.
(813) 590-4987 View (813) 590-4987
Photo of Nelly Okere, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nelly Okere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
(346) 207-1164 View (346) 207-1164
Photo of Dr. Pulcharia Thompson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Pulcharia Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Danbury, TX 77534
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
(346) 209-0782 View (346) 209-0782
Kenneth Osiezagha
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
(979) 500-2521 View (979) 500-2521

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Amanda Meltzer, MD, Psychiatrist
Amanda Meltzer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
Amanda L. Meltzer is a double board Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Upon completion of her U.S. training, Dr. Meltzer traveled to beautiful New Zealand where she completed additional training in Holistic Psychiatry and Integrated Behavioral Care. Her style today is based on a strong foundation of U.S. evidence-based Medicine enhanced by an emphasis on diet, exercise, and lifestyle management.
Amanda L. Meltzer is a double board Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Upon completion of her U.S. training, Dr. Meltzer traveled to beautiful New Zealand where she completed additional training in Holistic Psychiatry and Integrated Behavioral Care. Her style today is based on a strong foundation of U.S. evidence-based Medicine enhanced by an emphasis on diet, exercise, and lifestyle management.
(281) 612-7180 View (281) 612-7180
Photo of Odiri Akushe, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Odiri Akushe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
Hello, my name is Odiri Akushe, I am a Nurse Practitioner who utilizes a holistic and empathic approach toward my clients, you will be helping people who are struggling with various mental health issues providing them with the assistance they need to live better lives. The support and service you offer can often be life-changing and give people the comfort and hope they need to overcome their challenges.
Hello, my name is Odiri Akushe, I am a Nurse Practitioner who utilizes a holistic and empathic approach toward my clients, you will be helping people who are struggling with various mental health issues providing them with the assistance they need to live better lives. The support and service you offer can often be life-changing and give people the comfort and hope they need to overcome their challenges.
(346) 707-3120 View (346) 707-3120
Photo of Roger Starner Jones - Belle Meade Addiction Medicine & Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Belle Meade Addiction Medicine & Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We help patients establish a professional relationship with a dedicated physician who knows their medical history and medication regimen. This provides the patient with continuity of care and on-demand access to a doctor through telemedicine or in-person appointments. We manage a wide spectrum of illnesses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, ADHD and insomnia. Patients with these conditions have the best chance of improvement when they have regular appointments with the same physician who works with the patient in a professional setting.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We help patients establish a professional relationship with a dedicated physician who knows their medical history and medication regimen. This provides the patient with continuity of care and on-demand access to a doctor through telemedicine or in-person appointments. We manage a wide spectrum of illnesses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, ADHD and insomnia. Patients with these conditions have the best chance of improvement when they have regular appointments with the same physician who works with the patient in a professional setting.
(615) 576-8371 View (615) 576-8371
Photo of Angela Tefft, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
(281) 572-0598 View (281) 572-0598
Photo of Rimi Sandhu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rimi Sandhu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77072
Welcome to my profile! I am Rimi Sandhu, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for fostering healthy mental states so that each person can enjoy life to its fullest. I am committed to offering support and sharing my expertise to assist you in navigating the complexities of daily mental challenges. It's my belief that through a holistic psychiatric treatment approach, I can make a meaningful difference in your emotional well-being. It would be my honor to work with you on your journey towards improved mental health.
Welcome to my profile! I am Rimi Sandhu, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for fostering healthy mental states so that each person can enjoy life to its fullest. I am committed to offering support and sharing my expertise to assist you in navigating the complexities of daily mental challenges. It's my belief that through a holistic psychiatric treatment approach, I can make a meaningful difference in your emotional well-being. It would be my honor to work with you on your journey towards improved mental health.
(832) 346-9928 View (832) 346-9928
Photo of Barkat Ali, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barkat Ali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Welcome! Now Accepting New Patients. I am devoted to an integrative and holistic method of medicine, which begins with a thorough listening and understanding of my clients' concerns. My commitment lies in delivering exceptional care that not only prioritizes patient safety but also significantly improves their quality of life.
Welcome! Now Accepting New Patients. I am devoted to an integrative and holistic method of medicine, which begins with a thorough listening and understanding of my clients' concerns. My commitment lies in delivering exceptional care that not only prioritizes patient safety but also significantly improves their quality of life.
(346) 521-4742 View (346) 521-4742
Photo of Stephanie Sim, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephanie Sim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
(832) 377-7999 View (832) 377-7999
Photo of Yahya Saeed - Dr Yahya Saeed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Yahya Saeed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
(281) 317-6346 View (281) 317-6346
Photo of Anthonia Oyedele, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthonia Oyedele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Hello there, I’m Anthonia Oyedele, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Does life seem unnecessarily stressful, rough, and you can’t seem to find your way? Have you suddenly lost interest in the things that usually bring you joy? Are you seeking for a safe space to freely speak about your moodiness, sadness, or all-round gloom?
Hello there, I’m Anthonia Oyedele, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Does life seem unnecessarily stressful, rough, and you can’t seem to find your way? Have you suddenly lost interest in the things that usually bring you joy? Are you seeking for a safe space to freely speak about your moodiness, sadness, or all-round gloom?
(972) 945-3273 View (972) 945-3273
Photo of Miziana Raoofi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Miziana Raoofi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
With over eight years of experience as a nurse practitioner, I’ve dedicated my career to providing comprehensive care that nurtures the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of my patients. Having worked in diverse healthcare settings alongside a multidisciplinary team, I’ve seen just how transformative a collaborative, whole-person approach can be. Specializing in mental health, I’m passionate about creating a caring, non-judgmental environment where patients feel supported on their journey to recovery.
With over eight years of experience as a nurse practitioner, I’ve dedicated my career to providing comprehensive care that nurtures the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of my patients. Having worked in diverse healthcare settings alongside a multidisciplinary team, I’ve seen just how transformative a collaborative, whole-person approach can be. Specializing in mental health, I’m passionate about creating a caring, non-judgmental environment where patients feel supported on their journey to recovery.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Catherine Nwora, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Nwora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
I am Accepting New Patients Either In-Office or Virtually! My goal is to help everyone that comes to me to the best of my ability. Most of the patients I see carry diagnoses of adjustment disorder, ADHD, or mood and anxiety disorders. I feel every patient should have a say in their treatment plan. As a provider, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that helps you and makes your family feel comfortable with it. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, with evidence-based practice. I also believe in the use of non-pharmacological means can also help a patient when necessary.
I am Accepting New Patients Either In-Office or Virtually! My goal is to help everyone that comes to me to the best of my ability. Most of the patients I see carry diagnoses of adjustment disorder, ADHD, or mood and anxiety disorders. I feel every patient should have a say in their treatment plan. As a provider, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that helps you and makes your family feel comfortable with it. I use both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, with evidence-based practice. I also believe in the use of non-pharmacological means can also help a patient when necessary.
(832) 554-9450 View (832) 554-9450
Photo of Justina Hicks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justina Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77074
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with healthcare experience of more than 15 years. Equipped with knowledge and experience in the medical field, working with patients with mental health issues in a collaborative manner is imperative in understanding their diagnoses and establishing a treatment plan to help with their well-being. The treatment of mental health is always advancing, and I believe in evidence-based treatment.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with healthcare experience of more than 15 years. Equipped with knowledge and experience in the medical field, working with patients with mental health issues in a collaborative manner is imperative in understanding their diagnoses and establishing a treatment plan to help with their well-being. The treatment of mental health is always advancing, and I believe in evidence-based treatment.
(713) 360-2017 View (713) 360-2017
Photo of Lisa Ghiloni - Turning Point Psychiatry, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Turning Point Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Dr. Lisa Ghiloni is the founder and owner of Turning Point Psychiatry. Dr. Ghiloni offers a full menu of psychiatric services including psychotherapy, medication management, cognitive testing, and DNA genetic testing for psychiatric and depression medication. Psychiatric services are provided to patients of all ages. Dr. Ghiloni takes great pride in her psychiatric practice. She holds a doctorate in education, master’s in nursing, and is board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has 27 years of mental health experience of all ages. She is a member of the American Nurses Association.
Dr. Lisa Ghiloni is the founder and owner of Turning Point Psychiatry. Dr. Ghiloni offers a full menu of psychiatric services including psychotherapy, medication management, cognitive testing, and DNA genetic testing for psychiatric and depression medication. Psychiatric services are provided to patients of all ages. Dr. Ghiloni takes great pride in her psychiatric practice. She holds a doctorate in education, master’s in nursing, and is board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has 27 years of mental health experience of all ages. She is a member of the American Nurses Association.
(832) 261-7526 View (832) 261-7526
Photo of Chester Wu, MD, Psychiatrist
Chester Wu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
I am board certified in Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. I work with adults in my special interests including anxiety/panic, depression, trauma, insomnia, and phase of life transitions through psychotherapy and/or medication management. I am in my own solo private practice where I have the opportunity to work directly with my clients, in-person or virtually and also spend more time with each client. My treatment philosophy is that comprehensiveness and open communication are the keys to positive outcomes.
I am board certified in Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. I work with adults in my special interests including anxiety/panic, depression, trauma, insomnia, and phase of life transitions through psychotherapy and/or medication management. I am in my own solo private practice where I have the opportunity to work directly with my clients, in-person or virtually and also spend more time with each client. My treatment philosophy is that comprehensiveness and open communication are the keys to positive outcomes.
(281) 729-8794 View (281) 729-8794
Photo of Surya Abraham, APRN, NP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Surya Abraham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007
There doesn't need to be any fear or shame associated with seeking help for mental health concerns. I believe in a holistic approach that combines medication with non-medication behavioral modifications, with focus on physical health and positive lifestyle changes.
There doesn't need to be any fear or shame associated with seeking help for mental health concerns. I believe in a holistic approach that combines medication with non-medication behavioral modifications, with focus on physical health and positive lifestyle changes.
(346) 534-6814 View (346) 534-6814

See more therapy options for Angleton

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Angleton, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Angleton, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Angleton, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Angleton?

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.