Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

Photo of Comfort Pokoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Comfort Pokoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
My name is Comfort Pokoo, l am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing for the past five years. I am passionate about caring for adults with different mental issues. My approach is to use holistic care for patients and their families. Mostly working with adults diagnosed with major depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, schizophrenia. Substance use disorder. The environment and tone have always been a safe and relaxed, always been a positive therapeutic environment.
My name is Comfort Pokoo, l am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing for the past five years. I am passionate about caring for adults with different mental issues. My approach is to use holistic care for patients and their families. Mostly working with adults diagnosed with major depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, schizophrenia. Substance use disorder. The environment and tone have always been a safe and relaxed, always been a positive therapeutic environment.
(737) 206-8108 View (737) 206-8108
Photo of Sabah Choudry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
(737) 347-0439 View (737) 347-0439
Photo of Lisa J Beisel, Psychiatrist, MD
Lisa J Beisel
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78746
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 .
(512) 270-3858 View (512) 270-3858
Photo of Ogechi Ohakwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Ogechi Ohakwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I’m Ogechi, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has spent 15 years caring for people in intensive‑care units, recovery rooms, and outpatient clinics. Every setting showed me how deeply mental and physical health intertwine, so I returned to graduate school to focus fully on psychiatry. I combine deep clinical knowledge with warm, active listening to understand exactly what you need. Together we will create a safe, personalised plan that respects your story and aims for real relief.
Hello, I’m Ogechi, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has spent 15 years caring for people in intensive‑care units, recovery rooms, and outpatient clinics. Every setting showed me how deeply mental and physical health intertwine, so I returned to graduate school to focus fully on psychiatry. I combine deep clinical knowledge with warm, active listening to understand exactly what you need. Together we will create a safe, personalised plan that respects your story and aims for real relief.
(737) 358-3142 View (737) 358-3142
Photo of Anne Phillippe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Anne Phillippe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background in counseling psychology and oncology. I provide psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management, brief supportive therapy, and psychoeducation using a holistic, evidenced based, inclusive, and client-centered approach. My practice and experience focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, chronic illness, and trauma-related disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background in counseling psychology and oncology. I provide psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management, brief supportive therapy, and psychoeducation using a holistic, evidenced based, inclusive, and client-centered approach. My practice and experience focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, chronic illness, and trauma-related disorders.
(512) 729-1908 View (512) 729-1908
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 Catherine Nwora, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Catherine Nwora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Greetings, my name is Catherine Nwora, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner in the states of Texas and New York. I have 2 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and family medicine. I am passionate about my career and especially passionate about helping others. I specialize in medication management for mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I am located in Texas and provide telehealth services. I want to get to know you as an individual. I enjoy meeting new people and look forward to helping people accomplish their goals.
Greetings, my name is Catherine Nwora, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner in the states of Texas and New York. I have 2 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and family medicine. I am passionate about my career and especially passionate about helping others. I specialize in medication management for mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I am located in Texas and provide telehealth services. I want to get to know you as an individual. I enjoy meeting new people and look forward to helping people accomplish their goals.
(737) 264-6778 View (737) 264-6778
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78705
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(210) 526-0388 View (210) 526-0388
Photo of Naomi Nyabuto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Naomi Nyabuto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Struggling with mental health can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Naomi Nyabuto, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. My approach goes beyond symptoms, integrating medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle strategies to create lasting change. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or sleep issues, I believe in collaboration, empathy, and non-judgmental support. Let’s work together to help you feel better and regain control of your life.
Struggling with mental health can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Naomi Nyabuto, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. My approach goes beyond symptoms, integrating medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle strategies to create lasting change. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or sleep issues, I believe in collaboration, empathy, and non-judgmental support. Let’s work together to help you feel better and regain control of your life.
(512) 456-9807 View (512) 456-9807
Photo of Lemoya Bennett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Lemoya Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
My goal is to cultivate relationships and understand my clients' primary concerns thoroughly. I create personalized treatment plans that address their distinct needs, taking into account individual circumstances and preferences. This includes conducting a comprehensive mental health/psychiatric evaluation and managing medications. These treatment plans delineate specific goals, interventions, and anticipated outcomes, ensuring they are tailored to meet each person's unique requirements.
My goal is to cultivate relationships and understand my clients' primary concerns thoroughly. I create personalized treatment plans that address their distinct needs, taking into account individual circumstances and preferences. This includes conducting a comprehensive mental health/psychiatric evaluation and managing medications. These treatment plans delineate specific goals, interventions, and anticipated outcomes, ensuring they are tailored to meet each person's unique requirements.
(737) 232-6996 View (737) 232-6996
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) 510-7620 View (737) 510-7620
Photo of Erin D Cloke - Erin Cloke Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Erin Cloke Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
The need for mental health has never been greater, I am here to help. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I can diagnose mental illness, prescribe medications, and provide therapy. I can help you identify stressors and discover ways to manage them. My approach is holistic and person-centered, with a goal of helping you understand the inner workings of your body and mind. We can find ways to identify and achieve your goals and improve your day-to-day life.
The need for mental health has never been greater, I am here to help. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I can diagnose mental illness, prescribe medications, and provide therapy. I can help you identify stressors and discover ways to manage them. My approach is holistic and person-centered, with a goal of helping you understand the inner workings of your body and mind. We can find ways to identify and achieve your goals and improve your day-to-day life.
(512) 980-3672 View (512) 980-3672
Photo of Ellen Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ellen Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
If you are worried about yourself or your child's mental wellbeing, you've come to the right place. I work with clients ages 5-25 who are experiencing various levels of psychiatric distress and looking for diagnosis and medication management. In conjunction with medication management, I provide holistic, well-rounded, and integrated approaches to mental wellness. My practice is inclusive and affirming of all genders, sexualities, body types, and neurotypes.
If you are worried about yourself or your child's mental wellbeing, you've come to the right place. I work with clients ages 5-25 who are experiencing various levels of psychiatric distress and looking for diagnosis and medication management. In conjunction with medication management, I provide holistic, well-rounded, and integrated approaches to mental wellness. My practice is inclusive and affirming of all genders, sexualities, body types, and neurotypes.
(737) 252-4752 View (737) 252-4752
Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
(737) 387-5245 View (737) 387-5245
Photo of Oluremi Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Oluremi Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am Oluremi Cole, a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I have a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. I work with adults, and older adults. I am experienced in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions.
I am Oluremi Cole, a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I have a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. I work with adults, and older adults. I am experienced in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions.
(972) 810-3679 View (972) 810-3679
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 Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
(512) 601-4866 View (512) 601-4866
Photo of Melanie Foutz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Melanie Foutz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
7 Endorsed
Online Only
In today's world, many of us find ourselves navigating the complex terrain of mental health, dealing with the everyday struggles associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, etc. Feeling overwhelmed by your current situation? Feeling isolated or fatigued? If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like feeling consistently sad or down, grappling with excessive worries or fear, or are enduring extreme mood swings, I am here to offer guidance and collaboratively problem solve. I want to empower you to actively participate in treatment planning so that we can best meet your needs.
In today's world, many of us find ourselves navigating the complex terrain of mental health, dealing with the everyday struggles associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, etc. Feeling overwhelmed by your current situation? Feeling isolated or fatigued? If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like feeling consistently sad or down, grappling with excessive worries or fear, or are enduring extreme mood swings, I am here to offer guidance and collaboratively problem solve. I want to empower you to actively participate in treatment planning so that we can best meet your needs.
(737) 232-5971 View (737) 232-5971
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
(737) 339-8386 View (737) 339-8386
Photo of Elena Cosenza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGCNS, BC
Elena Cosenza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGCNS, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Elena Cosenza is a highly skilled advanced practice provider specializing in psychiatry and mental health. As a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS-BC), she delivers exceptional care, encompassing medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy for individuals aged 18 and above. Elena holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell Molecular and Genetic Biology with a Psychology minor from Boston University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Austin.
Elena Cosenza is a highly skilled advanced practice provider specializing in psychiatry and mental health. As a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS-BC), she delivers exceptional care, encompassing medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy for individuals aged 18 and above. Elena holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell Molecular and Genetic Biology with a Psychology minor from Boston University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Austin.
(737) 302-4556 View (737) 302-4556

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

55% Online Only
45% 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.