Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

Photo of Josh Ingleby, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Josh Ingleby
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
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 staff 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 staff will respond promptly! www.pondworkspsychiatry.com
(512) 991-8774 View (512) 991-8774
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) 355-7061 View (737) 355-7061
Photo of Bernard Marfo, Psychiatrist
Bernard Marfo
Psychiatrist
Online Only
My name is Bernard Marfo; I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in AZ; IA;TX; & WA. I have diverse clinical background in critical care; mental health consults; and medication management. My practice module is based on individual client-centered and culturally competent treatment approach. I pride myself in working with clients through compassion; empathy; respect; and humility to reduce the stigma of mental illness; promote mental health; and improve their overall health. I look forward to be part of the team helping you to get your life back and living happily.
My name is Bernard Marfo; I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in AZ; IA;TX; & WA. I have diverse clinical background in critical care; mental health consults; and medication management. My practice module is based on individual client-centered and culturally competent treatment approach. I pride myself in working with clients through compassion; empathy; respect; and humility to reduce the stigma of mental illness; promote mental health; and improve their overall health. I look forward to be part of the team helping you to get your life back and living happily.
Photo of Jeanne Blakeslee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Jeanne Blakeslee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Austin, TX 78734
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.
Photo of Tasha Hill-Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Tasha Hill-Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm Tasha Hill- Wilson, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with two decades of experience in healthcare. I am passionate about helping Women with mental health challenges. My journey has taken me through various roles, from inpatient care to telehealth, where I've been dedicated to making a difference in people's lives. I am the owner and provider of Unique Minds Psychiatry-The Women’s Depression & Anxiety Clinic. At Unique Minds Psychiatry-The Women’s Depression & Anxiety Clinic we focus on the mental health and wellness of Women exclusively.
Hello, I'm Tasha Hill- Wilson, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with two decades of experience in healthcare. I am passionate about helping Women with mental health challenges. My journey has taken me through various roles, from inpatient care to telehealth, where I've been dedicated to making a difference in people's lives. I am the owner and provider of Unique Minds Psychiatry-The Women’s Depression & Anxiety Clinic. At Unique Minds Psychiatry-The Women’s Depression & Anxiety Clinic we focus on the mental health and wellness of Women exclusively.
(512) 883-6040 View (512) 883-6040
Photo of Pasha Matthias, Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Pasha Matthias
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Austin, TX 78727
Seeing the impact of understanding and support in my own life shaped my passion for helping others through their struggles. Depression, and anxiety can make daily life feel overwhelming, affecting focus, motivation, and emotional balance. These challenges may lead to frustration, self-doubt, and difficulty maintaining relationships or achieving personal goals. Having witnessed the power of compassionate support, I strive to offer the same for those navigating these difficulties.
Seeing the impact of understanding and support in my own life shaped my passion for helping others through their struggles. Depression, and anxiety can make daily life feel overwhelming, affecting focus, motivation, and emotional balance. These challenges may lead to frustration, self-doubt, and difficulty maintaining relationships or achieving personal goals. Having witnessed the power of compassionate support, I strive to offer the same for those navigating these difficulties.
(737) 312-3760 View (737) 312-3760
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. 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 Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
(512) 399-2825 View (512) 399-2825
Photo of Ashley Anne Trabon - Westlake Psychiatry, Physician Assistant
Westlake Psychiatry
Physician Assistant
Austin, TX 78746
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
(737) 331-1705 View (737) 331-1705
Photo of Nina Herring, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nina Herring
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
(737) 937-5735 View (737) 937-5735
Photo of Delisa Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Delisa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
(512) 572-5786 View (512) 572-5786
Photo of Lindsey Schwartz, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Lindsey Schwartz
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Austin, TX 78705
My ideal client is you! I believe in treating the person as a whole, and am in awe of the mind-body-connection. There are many tools we can utilize in the treatment of mental health conditions: medications, therapy, non-invasive treatments and focusing on your overall wellbeing. Together, we will navigate your mental health concerns and use evidence-based research to find the most effective treatments to get you feeling like your best self.
My ideal client is you! I believe in treating the person as a whole, and am in awe of the mind-body-connection. There are many tools we can utilize in the treatment of mental health conditions: medications, therapy, non-invasive treatments and focusing on your overall wellbeing. Together, we will navigate your mental health concerns and use evidence-based research to find the most effective treatments to get you feeling like your best self.
(512) 412-3649 View (512) 412-3649
Photo of Daniel Hochman, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Hochman
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Dr. Nikolajs Birze, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Nikolajs Birze
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78731
Dr. Niko Birze has a holistic approach to psychiatry, emphasizing the importance of understanding each patient’s values, biology, and life experiences to create personalized treatment plans. While he recognizes the value of medications, Dr. Birze prioritizes therapy, exercise, and the role of community in well-being.
Dr. Niko Birze has a holistic approach to psychiatry, emphasizing the importance of understanding each patient’s values, biology, and life experiences to create personalized treatment plans. While he recognizes the value of medications, Dr. Birze prioritizes therapy, exercise, and the role of community in well-being.
(855) 976-2039 View (855) 976-2039
Photo of Camille Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Camille Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas. I received my master's from Walden University and have over 10 years of patient care/mental health hospital experience; I help and serve a diverse group of clients ranging from young adults to older/geriatric patients to get on the right track towards bettering their mental wellness.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas. I received my master's from Walden University and have over 10 years of patient care/mental health hospital experience; I help and serve a diverse group of clients ranging from young adults to older/geriatric patients to get on the right track towards bettering their mental wellness.
(737) 321-6244 View (737) 321-6244
Photo of Cole Weatherby, Psychiatrist, DO
Cole Weatherby
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78702
Not accepting new clients
I feel that achieving health and happiness comes by addressing many aspects of life-mind, body, spirituality, social connectedness, etc. This holistic approach recognizes that we all have an inherent ability to achieve health and that the focus of treatment should be on addressing barriers to this vs. treating or "curing" a disease. None of my patients have been in a textbook. Diagnoses should be used as a general guide for treatment, but that treatment should be customized for each individual person by taking into account the ways in which they do not fit the "textbook diagnosis".
I feel that achieving health and happiness comes by addressing many aspects of life-mind, body, spirituality, social connectedness, etc. This holistic approach recognizes that we all have an inherent ability to achieve health and that the focus of treatment should be on addressing barriers to this vs. treating or "curing" a disease. None of my patients have been in a textbook. Diagnoses should be used as a general guide for treatment, but that treatment should be customized for each individual person by taking into account the ways in which they do not fit the "textbook diagnosis".
(512) 402-8350 View (512) 402-8350
Photo of Carly Decker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Carly Decker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Greetings! My name is Carly Decker. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. My approach is grounded in genuine care for the overall well-being of others. I utilize a compassion-focused treatment modality to foster self-compassion and help patients overcome feelings of shame and self-criticism. I emphasize creating a safe, empathetic space where patients feel truly heard and supported throughout their challenges. This environment allows for exploration of emotions without judgment, encouraging healing and personal growth.
Greetings! My name is Carly Decker. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. My approach is grounded in genuine care for the overall well-being of others. I utilize a compassion-focused treatment modality to foster self-compassion and help patients overcome feelings of shame and self-criticism. I emphasize creating a safe, empathetic space where patients feel truly heard and supported throughout their challenges. This environment allows for exploration of emotions without judgment, encouraging healing and personal growth.
(737) 530-7690 View (737) 530-7690
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PRN, PMHNP
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PRN, 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) 387-4238 View (737) 387-4238
Photo of Lauren Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lauren Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(737) 352-5373 View (737) 352-5373
Photo of Katherine Churchill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Katherine Churchill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Austin, TX 78752
Starting the journey to mental wellness can be overwhelming, and as a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, practicing in the Austin community since 2012, I'm happy to provide assistance. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space where we can work together to achieve your goals. Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, mood instability or other stressful mental health challenges, I am here to offer professional personalized care. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management visits and brief psychotherapy so you can return to enjoying the things in life which matter to you the most.
Starting the journey to mental wellness can be overwhelming, and as a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, practicing in the Austin community since 2012, I'm happy to provide assistance. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space where we can work together to achieve your goals. Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, mood instability or other stressful mental health challenges, I am here to offer professional personalized care. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management visits and brief psychotherapy so you can return to enjoying the things in life which matter to you the most.
(737) 347-1044 View (737) 347-1044
Photo of May (Meiling) Wang - May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
(512) 778-0362 View (512) 778-0362

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)
78% 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.

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.