Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX

Transcend Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
4 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76010
With everything going on in the world, it is easy to get overwhelmed with emotions that could result in depression, stress, anxiety, frustration, substance, and drug addiction. My name is Simi Asekun, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I have over 13 years of collective nursing experience. I pride myself as an attentive listener that is passionate about my job and compassionate towards my clients. I will get to know you then establish long term relationship with you to reboot, restore and rejuvenate your mental acuity or general wellness.
With everything going on in the world, it is easy to get overwhelmed with emotions that could result in depression, stress, anxiety, frustration, substance, and drug addiction. My name is Simi Asekun, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I have over 13 years of collective nursing experience. I pride myself as an attentive listener that is passionate about my job and compassionate towards my clients. I will get to know you then establish long term relationship with you to reboot, restore and rejuvenate your mental acuity or general wellness.

Preferred Partners Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Arlington, TX 76013
Patricia Nkhono MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, graduated with a master's degree in nursing from the College of Health Science at Walden University in Minneapolis and became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Patricia holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and worked as a registered nurse in a number of hospitals, including Parkland Hospital and UT Southwestern Medical Center.
Patricia Nkhono MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, graduated with a master's degree in nursing from the College of Health Science at Walden University in Minneapolis and became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Patricia holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and worked as a registered nurse in a number of hospitals, including Parkland Hospital and UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Pamela J. Smith is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Arlington Texas, with an impressive 26 years of nursing experience. Pamela's background includes extensive work in Intensive Care (ICU), Emergency/Trauma, and MentalHealth. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Bachelor of Science BSN) in Nursing and has furthered her expertise with a Post-Master Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Pam believes in a patient-centered approach that emphasizes the importance of forging strong partnerships with her clients.
Pamela J. Smith is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Arlington Texas, with an impressive 26 years of nursing experience. Pamela's background includes extensive work in Intensive Care (ICU), Emergency/Trauma, and MentalHealth. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Bachelor of Science BSN) in Nursing and has furthered her expertise with a Post-Master Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Pam believes in a patient-centered approach that emphasizes the importance of forging strong partnerships with her clients.

My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in Texas, DC and New York. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in Texas, DC and New York. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.

I’m Dr. Oludotun Peters, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
I’m Dr. Oludotun Peters, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals dealing with mental health challenges.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or depression? You are not alone, and help is available. At Safi Psychiatry, I provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're navigating life’s challenges, managing medication, or seeking clarity, I am here to support you with a personalized approach.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or depression? You are not alone, and help is available. At Safi Psychiatry, I provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're navigating life’s challenges, managing medication, or seeking clarity, I am here to support you with a personalized approach.

Obiageli Omeke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Obiageli Omeke, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Oby is licensed to practice in Texas & Nevada. She has worked as a Director of Nursing, Cardiac Step Down, PCU, ER, and psychiatry, among other medical specializations. Serves in county hospitals and pediatric clinics, treating people with severe mental issues. Oby has several years of work experience and extensive knowledge in psychiatry, but her passion stems from personal experience Oby treats her patients with respect & dignity with the goal to provide support that looks at the whole person, not just their mental health needs. Oby is well known for providing a holistic treatment and always goes above and beyond for her clients.
Oby is licensed to practice in Texas & Nevada. She has worked as a Director of Nursing, Cardiac Step Down, PCU, ER, and psychiatry, among other medical specializations. Serves in county hospitals and pediatric clinics, treating people with severe mental issues. Oby has several years of work experience and extensive knowledge in psychiatry, but her passion stems from personal experience Oby treats her patients with respect & dignity with the goal to provide support that looks at the whole person, not just their mental health needs. Oby is well known for providing a holistic treatment and always goes above and beyond for her clients.

As a board-certified mental health practitioner with six years of experience, I am deeply passionate about helping individuals on their mental health journeys. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and strengths. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to supporting you with empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to your healing.
I prioritize creating a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel safe discussing their concerns, whether they relate to physical or mental health. I believe in treating the whole person rather than just symptoms.
As a board-certified mental health practitioner with six years of experience, I am deeply passionate about helping individuals on their mental health journeys. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and strengths. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to supporting you with empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to your healing.
I prioritize creating a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel safe discussing their concerns, whether they relate to physical or mental health. I believe in treating the whole person rather than just symptoms.

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.

Katie is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in Psychiatry to serve clients throughout the lifespan. Katie received her BSN from Midwestern State University in 2011 and then her MSN from Walden University in 2021. Katie works with clients across the lifespan experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. Her treatment model emphasizes providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment while allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
Katie is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in Psychiatry to serve clients throughout the lifespan. Katie received her BSN from Midwestern State University in 2011 and then her MSN from Walden University in 2021. Katie works with clients across the lifespan experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. Her treatment model emphasizes providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment while allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.

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.

Brightlight Oasis Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76015
We provide an Intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance use disorder(Opioid, Alcohol, Benzo, Meth) and other mental health disorders. We diagnose and provide medication management, and psychotherapy to those struggling with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep disorder, Trauma, Bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, and more. There is no Waitlist and appointments are usually within 24-48 hours. We are currently accepting new patients from Oregon, Texas, and Arizona.
We provide an Intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance use disorder(Opioid, Alcohol, Benzo, Meth) and other mental health disorders. We diagnose and provide medication management, and psychotherapy to those struggling with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep disorder, Trauma, Bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, and more. There is no Waitlist and appointments are usually within 24-48 hours. We are currently accepting new patients from Oregon, Texas, and Arizona.

My name is Titilope Lawal-Johnson. I am a PMHNP who has been practicing in healthcare as a whole for the past 15 years. I take pride in helping others be their best. We first complete a detailed evaluation, arrive at a diagnosis, then develop an individualized plan of care to address the issues that are most important to our patients.
My name is Titilope Lawal-Johnson. I am a PMHNP who has been practicing in healthcare as a whole for the past 15 years. I take pride in helping others be their best. We first complete a detailed evaluation, arrive at a diagnosis, then develop an individualized plan of care to address the issues that are most important to our patients.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.

I am a dedicated and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing telehealth services across Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. My practice emphasizes evidence-based care to ensure that each patient has the support and resources they need for mental health success. In my work, I provide comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management, diagnostic evaluations, and therapeutic interventions. My goal is to empower my patients to be active participants in their treatment, setting and achieving goals collaboratively to foster long-term well-being. I specialize in working with any ages
I am a dedicated and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing telehealth services across Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. My practice emphasizes evidence-based care to ensure that each patient has the support and resources they need for mental health success. In my work, I provide comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management, diagnostic evaluations, and therapeutic interventions. My goal is to empower my patients to be active participants in their treatment, setting and achieving goals collaboratively to foster long-term well-being. I specialize in working with any ages

Laurie Smith, Smart Heart Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76016
I am an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping people live better and happier lives. How is your mental health? Are you struggling with grief? Do you want to have more control over substance use versus it controlling you? Has your therapist suggested medications might help? Are you stuck in a rut? Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you have felt the urge to seek help, please message me. We will work together to figure it out. I work with teens and adults. You don't have to go through this alone. Visit my website and send me a message!
I am an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping people live better and happier lives. How is your mental health? Are you struggling with grief? Do you want to have more control over substance use versus it controlling you? Has your therapist suggested medications might help? Are you stuck in a rut? Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you have felt the urge to seek help, please message me. We will work together to figure it out. I work with teens and adults. You don't have to go through this alone. Visit my website and send me a message!

Texas Advance Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Arlington, TX 76012
Untreated mental illness can unravel one's life causing severe stress, loss of employment, loss relationships, loss of hope, and sadly at times loss of one's life. My passion is to offer individualized care, treatment, medication management, and to help my clients living healthier happier and more balanced lives. Specialized in the assessment, diagnosing, and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
Untreated mental illness can unravel one's life causing severe stress, loss of employment, loss relationships, loss of hope, and sadly at times loss of one's life. My passion is to offer individualized care, treatment, medication management, and to help my clients living healthier happier and more balanced lives. Specialized in the assessment, diagnosing, and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.

As a nurse practitioner, in collaboration with a supervising physician, I am able to evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychosis.
As a nurse practitioner, in collaboration with a supervising physician, I am able to evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychosis.

Beltha Njanje Chunow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76017
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and more. My approach to care is holistic, integrating psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to address the unique needs of each patient.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and more. My approach to care is holistic, integrating psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to address the unique needs of each patient.
See more therapy options for Arlington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
98% | Depression |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Medication Management |
77% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
90% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arlington?
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.