Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.

When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.
When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.

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.

Discover compassionate; expert care with Funmilayo Akintunde; a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to helping clients achieve balance and peace of mind. Specializing in mental health assessment; diagnosis; and personalized treatment; Funmilayo provides care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With deep expertise in psychiatry and a heartfelt; empathetic approach; she empowers clients on a transformative journey toward mental wellness. Trust in Funmilayo’s comprehensive psychiatric support to overcome challenges and move toward a healthier; brighter future.
Discover compassionate; expert care with Funmilayo Akintunde; a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to helping clients achieve balance and peace of mind. Specializing in mental health assessment; diagnosis; and personalized treatment; Funmilayo provides care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With deep expertise in psychiatry and a heartfelt; empathetic approach; she empowers clients on a transformative journey toward mental wellness. Trust in Funmilayo’s comprehensive psychiatric support to overcome challenges and move toward a healthier; brighter future.
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population. Dr. Moore is an Associate Clinical Professor at Johns Hopkins University, South Alabama University, and Texas State University.
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population. Dr. Moore is an Associate Clinical Professor at Johns Hopkins University, South Alabama University, and Texas State University.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.

When I shifted from ER nursing to psychiatry, I discovered the power of lasting patient relationships. After years managing acute trauma, I now deeply value building ongoing connections, helping patients overcome challenges with compassion and empathy. My goal is not just to medicate but to understand your whole story—home life, work stress, and underlying struggles. Whether managing ADHD, anxiety, or complex conditions, I'm here to partner with you, addressing root causes and helping you find sustainable relief and meaningful progress.
When I shifted from ER nursing to psychiatry, I discovered the power of lasting patient relationships. After years managing acute trauma, I now deeply value building ongoing connections, helping patients overcome challenges with compassion and empathy. My goal is not just to medicate but to understand your whole story—home life, work stress, and underlying struggles. Whether managing ADHD, anxiety, or complex conditions, I'm here to partner with you, addressing root causes and helping you find sustainable relief and meaningful progress.

Angella Namutebi is a compassionate and dedicated boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas, who is committed to creating a nonjudgmental and welcoming therapeutic environment for her patients. She offers care to a wide range of individuals, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors, helping them navigate through various mental health challenges. Her practice at LifeStance Health is centered on listening to her clients' unique needs and working collaboratively with them to develop personalized treatment plans that foster healing and growth.
Angella Namutebi is a compassionate and dedicated boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas, who is committed to creating a nonjudgmental and welcoming therapeutic environment for her patients. She offers care to a wide range of individuals, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors, helping them navigate through various mental health challenges. Her practice at LifeStance Health is centered on listening to her clients' unique needs and working collaboratively with them to develop personalized treatment plans that foster healing and growth.

Is life leaving you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with your mental health? Perhaps you suspect a diagnosis or have received one, but want to feel more empowered in your choices for care. I'd like to work with you! I offer a holistic approach to address not just symptoms but 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 feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives. I’m here to support every step of the journey.
Is life leaving you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling with your mental health? Perhaps you suspect a diagnosis or have received one, but want to feel more empowered in your choices for care. I'd like to work with you! I offer a holistic approach to address not just symptoms but 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 feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives. I’m here to support every step of the journey.

I am a board certified psychiatric physician assistant with prescribing authority. I offer medication management, alone or in combination with psychotherapy, to adults. We schedule new patient appointments through a secure form on our website. Please provide the requested information, and a member of our team will respond promptly! www.pondworkspsychiatry.com
I am a board certified psychiatric physician assistant with prescribing authority. I offer medication management, alone or in combination with psychotherapy, to adults. We schedule new patient appointments through a secure form on our website. Please provide the requested information, and a member of our team will respond promptly! www.pondworkspsychiatry.com

Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.

Welcome to my practice! I strive to provide the best comprehensive assessment and care of your psychiatric needs with emphasis on your unique strengths and maximizing your coping skills Each client has had a variety of life experience that makes them who they are; while the emphasis in my practice is eclectic, meaning a mix of pharmacological knowledge and essentials of cognitive therapy , My goal is making sure I give the best advice and recommendations I can, while primarily attending to psychopharmacogic needs. In either case your issues will be heard compassionately , with acceptance and good future health in mind .
Welcome to my practice! I strive to provide the best comprehensive assessment and care of your psychiatric needs with emphasis on your unique strengths and maximizing your coping skills Each client has had a variety of life experience that makes them who they are; while the emphasis in my practice is eclectic, meaning a mix of pharmacological knowledge and essentials of cognitive therapy , My goal is making sure I give the best advice and recommendations I can, while primarily attending to psychopharmacogic needs. In either case your issues will be heard compassionately , with acceptance and good future health in mind .

Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.

Dr. Coton is board-eligible in general psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Coton attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed his residency in general psychiatry at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple, Texas. Dr. Coton completed his Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the St. Mary’s University in San Antonio with focus on addiction populations in drug court programs, neurorehabilitation, and counseling. He has contributed to research in addiction in various patient populations.
Dr. Coton is board-eligible in general psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Coton attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed his residency in general psychiatry at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple, Texas. Dr. Coton completed his Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the St. Mary’s University in San Antonio with focus on addiction populations in drug court programs, neurorehabilitation, and counseling. He has contributed to research in addiction in various patient populations.

Currently accepting new patients: children ages 3 and up, adolescents, and young adults. Welcome to Roots and Wings Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Our philosophy is that every child should be imparted with two gifts. One is roots and the other is wings. I am a licensed physician since 2005 and have been practicing primarily child and adolescent psychiatry since 2008. Our goal is to see every child flourish in the context of his or her family. In addition to traditional psychiatric medication management, we also offer alternative treatments, as well as individual and family therapy.
Currently accepting new patients: children ages 3 and up, adolescents, and young adults. Welcome to Roots and Wings Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Our philosophy is that every child should be imparted with two gifts. One is roots and the other is wings. I am a licensed physician since 2005 and have been practicing primarily child and adolescent psychiatry since 2008. Our goal is to see every child flourish in the context of his or her family. In addition to traditional psychiatric medication management, we also offer alternative treatments, as well as individual and family therapy.

Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.

My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. We all want to have happy and meaningful lives, but sometimes we get stuck and need some help. My evaluation is very thorough. I use evidence-based (research proven) practices in my interview to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do. Some of the nicest people I've ever met - are my clients. I would be honored to meet you.
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. We all want to have happy and meaningful lives, but sometimes we get stuck and need some help. My evaluation is very thorough. I use evidence-based (research proven) practices in my interview to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do. Some of the nicest people I've ever met - are my clients. I would be honored to meet you.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in medication management for mental illness and psychotherapy. After medical school I completed five years in residency and fellowship training and a double board certification to give me psychiatric expertise in patients of all ages. I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in medication management for mental illness and psychotherapy. After medical school I completed five years in residency and fellowship training and a double board certification to give me psychiatric expertise in patients of all ages. I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.

My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.

The ideal patient for a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist seeks support navigating diverse mental health challenges across the lifespan. In the case of a child or adolescent, they may be grappling with issues like academic stress, social difficulties, or emerging mental health concerns. The goal is to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping mechanisms during this formative period. For adults, the ideal client might be facing a range of issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or workplace stress.
The ideal patient for a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist seeks support navigating diverse mental health challenges across the lifespan. In the case of a child or adolescent, they may be grappling with issues like academic stress, social difficulties, or emerging mental health concerns. The goal is to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping mechanisms during this formative period. For adults, the ideal client might be facing a range of issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or workplace stress.
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 |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | ADHD |
70% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | 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
75% | Female | |
24% | 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.
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.