Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

Photo of Sarah Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarah Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Ramon Aragon, Psychiatrist, MD
Ramon Aragon
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78723
Depression is a severely debilitating illness and while some patients improve with medications and psychotherapy, some patients do not. This can be due to medication adverse effects, difficulty adhering to the regimen, or a simple lack of efficacy from these agents. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
Depression is a severely debilitating illness and while some patients improve with medications and psychotherapy, some patients do not. This can be due to medication adverse effects, difficulty adhering to the regimen, or a simple lack of efficacy from these agents. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
(512) 675-5449 View (512) 675-5449
Photo of Dr. Raven Aleman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AAT-I, CIMHP
Dr. Raven Aleman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AAT-I, CIMHP
Online Only
Have you tried endless conventional treatments but still feel stuck—managing symptoms without truly healing? If you're seeking thoughtful, personalized care that blends an integrative approach to managing non-controlled medications with supportive psychotherapy, you're not alone. I’ve created this space for people who want to feel heard, understood, and treated as a whole person. It's for those ready to move beyond survival and toward clarity, connection, and meaningful, lasting progress.
Have you tried endless conventional treatments but still feel stuck—managing symptoms without truly healing? If you're seeking thoughtful, personalized care that blends an integrative approach to managing non-controlled medications with supportive psychotherapy, you're not alone. I’ve created this space for people who want to feel heard, understood, and treated as a whole person. It's for those ready to move beyond survival and toward clarity, connection, and meaningful, lasting progress.
(509) 509-1958 View (509) 509-1958
Photo of Charlotte Coates - Legion Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Legion Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming, but getting help shouldn't be. At Legion Health, we make the process seamless and supportive. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive medication management, including treatment for conditions requiring controlled substances, and provide personalized care plans tailored to your needs. With appointments available within a week and in-network coverage with all major insurance payers, we remove barriers to care so you can focus on what matters—your well-being.
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming, but getting help shouldn't be. At Legion Health, we make the process seamless and supportive. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive medication management, including treatment for conditions requiring controlled substances, and provide personalized care plans tailored to your needs. With appointments available within a week and in-network coverage with all major insurance payers, we remove barriers to care so you can focus on what matters—your well-being.
(737) 206-8793 View (737) 206-8793
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(737) 383-1706 View (737) 383-1706
Photo of Elizabeth Ssemanda, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Elizabeth Ssemanda
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you ready to go from living with post-traumatic stress to achieving post-traumatic resilience? Dr. Ssemanda is here to guide you in overcoming trauma, enabling you to pursue the life you've always envisioned. It’s time to stop isolating yourself, put an end to those nights plagued by nightmares, and reclaim control over your life.
Are you ready to go from living with post-traumatic stress to achieving post-traumatic resilience? Dr. Ssemanda is here to guide you in overcoming trauma, enabling you to pursue the life you've always envisioned. It’s time to stop isolating yourself, put an end to those nights plagued by nightmares, and reclaim control over your life.
(512) 661-0527 View (512) 661-0527
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
(737) 355-9047 View (737) 355-9047
Photo of Ronke Arogundade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ronke Arogundade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Ronke Arogundade PMHNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated to providing effective care through an evidence-based holistic approach. She is passionate about ensuring every Patient’s mental health is well taken in a warm, nonjudgmental environment through thorough assessment and individualized treatment plan. Her ultimate goal is to provide effective care so you can live your best life. My approach to therapy is non-judgmental and utilizes Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Supportive forms of therapy.
Ronke Arogundade PMHNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated to providing effective care through an evidence-based holistic approach. She is passionate about ensuring every Patient’s mental health is well taken in a warm, nonjudgmental environment through thorough assessment and individualized treatment plan. Her ultimate goal is to provide effective care so you can live your best life. My approach to therapy is non-judgmental and utilizes Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Supportive forms of therapy.
(737) 315-3185 View (737) 315-3185
Photo of Sana Powell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MA
Sana Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MA
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who delivers high-quality medication management & supportive therapy to children, teens, and adults living in Texas. My clients experience a range of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma-related disorders. As a Christian, Indian-American woman, mother, and LGBTQIA+ affirming provider with a foundation as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), I offer a deeply inclusive perspective to my work so that your unique needs are understood and respected. We'll build a therapeutic relationship that honors YOUR unique identities and worldview.
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who delivers high-quality medication management & supportive therapy to children, teens, and adults living in Texas. My clients experience a range of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma-related disorders. As a Christian, Indian-American woman, mother, and LGBTQIA+ affirming provider with a foundation as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), I offer a deeply inclusive perspective to my work so that your unique needs are understood and respected. We'll build a therapeutic relationship that honors YOUR unique identities and worldview.
(737) 284-0392 View (737) 284-0392
Photo of Uzochukwu Emukah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Uzochukwu Emukah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, deeply committed to delivering exceptional and patient-centered care. My practice philosophy revolves around collaboration, aiming to empower clients to achieve their goals through the harmonious integration of pharmacological management and psychotherapy recommendations. While I recognize the importance of medication, I emphasize that it is just one facet of our comprehensive approach.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, deeply committed to delivering exceptional and patient-centered care. My practice philosophy revolves around collaboration, aiming to empower clients to achieve their goals through the harmonious integration of pharmacological management and psychotherapy recommendations. While I recognize the importance of medication, I emphasize that it is just one facet of our comprehensive approach.
(737) 530-8491 View (737) 530-8491
Photo of Erica Burgett - Erica Burgett - Mental Health & Wellness Austin , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Erica Burgett - Mental Health & Wellness Austin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Austin, TX 78702
As a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, I approach health from a holistic perspective and believe that well-being includes an awareness of and attention to the body and mind as well as the emotional and interpersonal lives we lead. Human beings are complex and singular in their individuality and life story. My philosophy, as a provider, is one of curiosity, acceptance, and collaboration. My goal is to understand and support my client’s unique lived experience, providing an open, trusting, and engaged therapeutic space.
As a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, I approach health from a holistic perspective and believe that well-being includes an awareness of and attention to the body and mind as well as the emotional and interpersonal lives we lead. Human beings are complex and singular in their individuality and life story. My philosophy, as a provider, is one of curiosity, acceptance, and collaboration. My goal is to understand and support my client’s unique lived experience, providing an open, trusting, and engaged therapeutic space.
(737) 258-9560 View (737) 258-9560
Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(512) 543-2083 View (512) 543-2083
Photo of Dr. Julie Tollemache, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Julie Tollemache
Psychiatrist, DO
Austin, TX 78751
Greetings! I’m Dr. Julie Tollemache, often referred to as “Dr. T” by my patients. I’m a psychiatrist with both adult and pediatric training, having completed my residency and fellowship at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. I have 10+ years of experience treating all mental health diagnoses in every setting. I founded Neighborhood Psychiatry Hyde Park to offer exceptional mental health care for both adults and children throughout Texas. I work with patients aged 5 to 64, providing pharmacologic treatment as well as brief therapeutic and lifestyle interventions.
Greetings! I’m Dr. Julie Tollemache, often referred to as “Dr. T” by my patients. I’m a psychiatrist with both adult and pediatric training, having completed my residency and fellowship at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. I have 10+ years of experience treating all mental health diagnoses in every setting. I founded Neighborhood Psychiatry Hyde Park to offer exceptional mental health care for both adults and children throughout Texas. I work with patients aged 5 to 64, providing pharmacologic treatment as well as brief therapeutic and lifestyle interventions.
(512) 861-8379 View (512) 861-8379
Photo of Daniel Coleman, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Coleman
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
(469) 813-7902 View (469) 813-7902
Photo of Eva Kirara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eva Kirara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a PMHNP-BC serving patients ages 18-65. My professional background of more than 10 years of experience in nursing and medicine offers a wealth of diverse roles in numerous care settings with a concentration in mental health.
I am a PMHNP-BC serving patients ages 18-65. My professional background of more than 10 years of experience in nursing and medicine offers a wealth of diverse roles in numerous care settings with a concentration in mental health.
(512) 572-5786 View (512) 572-5786
Kaitlin Miesch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Austin, TX 78705
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide assessment, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric/mental health conditions across the lifespan through medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions as well as health promotion and illness prevention strategies. I believe in blending medications, conventional and complementary therapies, and lifestyle-based interventions in a way that aligns with individual values and goals is essential for genuine healing.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide assessment, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric/mental health conditions across the lifespan through medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions as well as health promotion and illness prevention strategies. I believe in blending medications, conventional and complementary therapies, and lifestyle-based interventions in a way that aligns with individual values and goals is essential for genuine healing.
(512) 846-6691 View (512) 846-6691
Photo of Laura Katie Maxwell - Maxwell Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura Katie Maxwell - Maxwell Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Not accepting new clients
My primary goal is to create an environment where you feel safe, accepted, and understood. I am an adult psychiatrist offering treatment with both medications and psychotherapy. Medications can be helpful, but medicine is never the sole answer to our problems. As a psychiatrist who also does psychotherapy, I will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan which includes the role of physical activity, relationships, nutrition and work/life balance. I treat adults with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder), mood disorders, and ADHD.
My primary goal is to create an environment where you feel safe, accepted, and understood. I am an adult psychiatrist offering treatment with both medications and psychotherapy. Medications can be helpful, but medicine is never the sole answer to our problems. As a psychiatrist who also does psychotherapy, I will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan which includes the role of physical activity, relationships, nutrition and work/life balance. I treat adults with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder), mood disorders, and ADHD.
(737) 204-8085 View (737) 204-8085
Photo of Latham Fink, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Latham Fink
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Austin, TX 78702
My goal is to help my you thrive and become the most self-realized individual you can be. Often that entails at least some level of healing, whether physical, emotional, relational, or even spiritual, before we leverage awareness of the obstacles that stand in the way of living our fullest. My approach to psychiatry is to seamlessly blend medications and therapy so that you can truly live. While medications can be very helpful at times, I don't believe in a magic pill. It is important that you share with me your values and goals so we can also collaborate to find non-pharmacological approaches to helping you thrive.
My goal is to help my you thrive and become the most self-realized individual you can be. Often that entails at least some level of healing, whether physical, emotional, relational, or even spiritual, before we leverage awareness of the obstacles that stand in the way of living our fullest. My approach to psychiatry is to seamlessly blend medications and therapy so that you can truly live. While medications can be very helpful at times, I don't believe in a magic pill. It is important that you share with me your values and goals so we can also collaborate to find non-pharmacological approaches to helping you thrive.
(737) 204-9077 View (737) 204-9077
Photo of Candice Mary Jeffers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Candice Mary Jeffers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in depression, burned out, or just not like yourself, you're not alone—and support is available. I provide personalized, thoughtful psychiatric medication management in Austin, TX, for adults dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and burnout. My approach combines expert prescribing with a strong respect for minimalism—sometimes that means prescribing, and sometimes it means safely deprescribing. I focus on helping you feel better using the least intrusive, most effective approach for your unique situation. In addition to traditional psychiatric care, I offer advanced
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in depression, burned out, or just not like yourself, you're not alone—and support is available. I provide personalized, thoughtful psychiatric medication management in Austin, TX, for adults dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and burnout. My approach combines expert prescribing with a strong respect for minimalism—sometimes that means prescribing, and sometimes it means safely deprescribing. I focus on helping you feel better using the least intrusive, most effective approach for your unique situation. In addition to traditional psychiatric care, I offer advanced
(737) 231-0004 View (737) 231-0004
Photo of Molly Quigley Clayton - Westlake Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse
Westlake Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse
Austin, TX 78746
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
(737) 371-9430 View (737) 371-9430

See more therapy options for Austin

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

600+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
84% Bipolar Disorder
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Trauma and PTSD
74% ADHD
71% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Austin, TX see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% 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.