Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

Photo of Dr. Daniel Jinho Ha - Flume Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Flume Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
New patient appointments are available. At Flume Psychiatry, our goal is to return quality of life through integration of psychopharmacological therapy (medication management) with a cognitive, motivational, and supportive therapeutic approach during each session. We value collaboration with our patients to provide empowerment through knowledge and confidence in their individualized treatment plans.
New patient appointments are available. At Flume Psychiatry, our goal is to return quality of life through integration of psychopharmacological therapy (medication management) with a cognitive, motivational, and supportive therapeutic approach during each session. We value collaboration with our patients to provide empowerment through knowledge and confidence in their individualized treatment plans.
(737) 216-8634 View (737) 216-8634
Photo of Sarah Matthews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a master's degree from the University of Texas at Austin. As a PMHNP, I can deliver high-quality, cost-effective care to those who are experiencing mental health concerns. My personal philosophy of practice centers on a caring and collaborative relationship where we work as a team to address issues that are preventing you from living life fully, and my treatment style is characterized by commitment, thoughtful curiosity, and unconditional compassion.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a master's degree from the University of Texas at Austin. As a PMHNP, I can deliver high-quality, cost-effective care to those who are experiencing mental health concerns. My personal philosophy of practice centers on a caring and collaborative relationship where we work as a team to address issues that are preventing you from living life fully, and my treatment style is characterized by commitment, thoughtful curiosity, and unconditional compassion.
(512) 409-9779 View (512) 409-9779
Photo of Sabrina Watkins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabrina Watkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78752
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner working with clients since 2014 that believes in meeting people where they are at, giving consideration to the person as a whole, creating a treatment plan with you instead of at you, and transparency in treatment. I offer services both in person and through tele-psychiatry to ages 14 and older for diagnosis and medication management. I also offer sound healing sessions on a limited basis as a therapeutic modality.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner working with clients since 2014 that believes in meeting people where they are at, giving consideration to the person as a whole, creating a treatment plan with you instead of at you, and transparency in treatment. I offer services both in person and through tele-psychiatry to ages 14 and older for diagnosis and medication management. I also offer sound healing sessions on a limited basis as a therapeutic modality.
(844) 913-1756 View (844) 913-1756
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(512) 265-2532 View (512) 265-2532
Photo of Kevin Grabski, MD, Psychiatrist
Kevin Grabski
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78751
To me, the most rewarding aspect of psychiatry is building therapeutic relationships. I believe that understanding you as a person, not just your symptoms, is essential for successful treatment. Whether through ongoing therapy or simply managing medications, a strong connection is the foundation of effective care. While I have expertise in psychopharmacology, I view medication as most beneficial when paired with psychotherapy. In cases where medication is necessary, it is not typically the whole solution. My goal is to provide holistic care whether this involves medication, therapy, or both.
To me, the most rewarding aspect of psychiatry is building therapeutic relationships. I believe that understanding you as a person, not just your symptoms, is essential for successful treatment. Whether through ongoing therapy or simply managing medications, a strong connection is the foundation of effective care. While I have expertise in psychopharmacology, I view medication as most beneficial when paired with psychotherapy. In cases where medication is necessary, it is not typically the whole solution. My goal is to provide holistic care whether this involves medication, therapy, or both.
(737) 299-8674 View (737) 299-8674
Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(737) 373-2140 View (737) 373-2140
Photo of Jim Halgrimson, MD, Psychiatrist
Jim Halgrimson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
Dr. Halgrimson is a Board-Certified Baylor Trained Psychiatrist who is proud to serve adolescents and adults. Dr. Halgrimson treats a wide range of mental health conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and other cognitive conditions. Dr. Halgrimson is published in a number of peer-reviewed scientific journals, including the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and has served as President of the Austin Psychiatric Society. Dr. Halgrimson loves Austin, the people here, and enjoys spending time with his friends and family.
Dr. Halgrimson is a Board-Certified Baylor Trained Psychiatrist who is proud to serve adolescents and adults. Dr. Halgrimson treats a wide range of mental health conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and other cognitive conditions. Dr. Halgrimson is published in a number of peer-reviewed scientific journals, including the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and has served as President of the Austin Psychiatric Society. Dr. Halgrimson loves Austin, the people here, and enjoys spending time with his friends and family.
(737) 204-8221 View (737) 204-8221
Photo of Mohammad Amjad Khan, MD, Psychiatrist
Mohammad Amjad Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
My vision of care includes identifying strengths, weaknesses, unique abilities and challenges of the person. This helps me to develop a comprehensive individualized plan in an integrative holistic model of care. I like to follow evidence based treatment approach. As every person’s need is unique, I try to develop a plan of care which best addresses this need and it ranges from just talk therapy to talk therapy plus medication management or only medication management.
My vision of care includes identifying strengths, weaknesses, unique abilities and challenges of the person. This helps me to develop a comprehensive individualized plan in an integrative holistic model of care. I like to follow evidence based treatment approach. As every person’s need is unique, I try to develop a plan of care which best addresses this need and it ranges from just talk therapy to talk therapy plus medication management or only medication management.
(512) 982-4058 View (512) 982-4058
Photo of Shyretha Tawanee Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shyretha Tawanee Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care by using a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and evidenced-based approach. I've earned my Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin and has a special interest in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, LGBT population, and trauma-related disorders. I work with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that encompass medication management, brief psychotherapy, and/or holistic approaches to promote wellness.
I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care by using a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and evidenced-based approach. I've earned my Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin and has a special interest in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, LGBT population, and trauma-related disorders. I work with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that encompass medication management, brief psychotherapy, and/or holistic approaches to promote wellness.
(737) 758-2335 View (737) 758-2335
Photo of Richard Sambrook, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Sambrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
(737) 315-3888 View (737) 315-3888
Photo of Samantha Symons - Bluebird Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
Bluebird Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Bluebird Psychiatry is a trusted mental health practice that offers a warm, accessible environment for adult patients. Dr. Symons and psychiatric nurse practitioners Alexandra Prosk and Kelly Witte provide patient-focused mental health services, including medication management, to help patients with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and more.
Bluebird Psychiatry is a trusted mental health practice that offers a warm, accessible environment for adult patients. Dr. Symons and psychiatric nurse practitioners Alexandra Prosk and Kelly Witte provide patient-focused mental health services, including medication management, to help patients with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and more.
(512) 559-8715 View (512) 559-8715
Photo of Lin Cai, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lin Cai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I am a board-certified advanced nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2015. I provide Psychiatric Evaluation and medication management services both in person and through Tele-medicine to ages 14 and older. I devote my time, attention, and work collaboratively with each individual to customized the goals, interventions, and to optimize care plans. I believe in integrated mental health and physical well beings. I am currently accepting new patient. WE DO SPRAVATO TREATMENT AT OUR CLINIC.
I am a board-certified advanced nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2015. I provide Psychiatric Evaluation and medication management services both in person and through Tele-medicine to ages 14 and older. I devote my time, attention, and work collaboratively with each individual to customized the goals, interventions, and to optimize care plans. I believe in integrated mental health and physical well beings. I am currently accepting new patient. WE DO SPRAVATO TREATMENT AT OUR CLINIC.
(844) 914-2630 View (844) 914-2630
Photo of Ugochi Azubuike, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugochi Azubuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
Do you long for a place where your voice is genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate and non-judgmental space, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Do you long for a place where your voice is genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate and non-judgmental space, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(512) 846-9424 View (512) 846-9424
Photo of Ajijala Nanna, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ajijala Nanna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Ajijala is a board-certified PMHNP in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She has 12 years of nursing experience in Rehabilitation and psychiatric. Ajijala’s focus is to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Every person is unique, with differing circumstances, motivations, experiences, and life factors.
Ajijala is a board-certified PMHNP in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She has 12 years of nursing experience in Rehabilitation and psychiatric. Ajijala’s focus is to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Every person is unique, with differing circumstances, motivations, experiences, and life factors.
(737) 299-0923 View (737) 299-0923
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78735
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Florida. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Florida. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
(512) 399-2825 View (512) 399-2825
Photo of Daniel Hochman, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Hochman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I specialize in comprehensive treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and PTSD that have been poorly responsive to other trials of treatment. After developing a process to treat people with lifelong, difficult to treat addiction, I created www.selfrecovery.org as a way to help people access good help from anywhere. As a physician I can prescribe medication, but I always include therapy to best identify and heal the actual source of the symptoms. I will take the time to review your past treatment, and enjoy improving on remaining gaps to help you reach your potential.
I specialize in comprehensive treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and PTSD that have been poorly responsive to other trials of treatment. After developing a process to treat people with lifelong, difficult to treat addiction, I created www.selfrecovery.org as a way to help people access good help from anywhere. As a physician I can prescribe medication, but I always include therapy to best identify and heal the actual source of the symptoms. I will take the time to review your past treatment, and enjoy improving on remaining gaps to help you reach your potential.
(512) 872-5819 View (512) 872-5819
Photo of Shazar Kahn, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shazar Kahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
(737) 250-8224 View (737) 250-8224
Photo of Ziba Rezaee, MD, Psychiatrist
Ziba Rezaee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78734
I am double board certified in Brain Injury Medicine and General Psychiatry and treat neuropsychiatric trauma based illnesses. I am committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric services to my patients and helping them in improving their lives and finding their path to greater happiness and inner peace. I operate an outpatient psychiatric medical clinic that utilizes a holistic approach in treatment of our patients. We not only offer medication treatment but also encourage and engage patients in therapy, lifestyle modification and involvement with support groups.
I am double board certified in Brain Injury Medicine and General Psychiatry and treat neuropsychiatric trauma based illnesses. I am committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric services to my patients and helping them in improving their lives and finding their path to greater happiness and inner peace. I operate an outpatient psychiatric medical clinic that utilizes a holistic approach in treatment of our patients. We not only offer medication treatment but also encourage and engage patients in therapy, lifestyle modification and involvement with support groups.
(512) 394-4846 View (512) 394-4846
Photo of Jennifer Schaefer, MD, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Schaefer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
Dr. Schaefer is double board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Schaefer graduated from medical school at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She completed both her general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent fellowship training at The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, where she served as chief resident. She works to collaboratively target each patient’s treatment to their particular goals through a combination of medication management and individual or family therapy.
Dr. Schaefer is double board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Schaefer graduated from medical school at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She completed both her general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent fellowship training at The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, where she served as chief resident. She works to collaboratively target each patient’s treatment to their particular goals through a combination of medication management and individual or family therapy.
(512) 842-4316 View (512) 842-4316
Photo of Kristen Dale, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristen Dale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
(737) 284-2199 View (737) 284-2199
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
82% Bipolar Disorder
81% Trauma and PTSD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Medication Management
74% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Austin, TX see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
29% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Austin?

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.