Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

Photo of Dr. Matthew Edward Masters Jr, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Matthew Edward Masters Jr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. Outpatient Detox and Treatment of Fentanyl Addiction. Specializing in: Suboxone for Opioid Addiction; Medical Detox; 12 Step Facilitation; and Dual Diagnosis treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and ADHD. Austin Monthly's Top Doctor in Addiction Medicine 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. On the Faculty of Texas A & M School of Medicine-Round Rock with extensive teaching experience in the field of Addiction Medicine. Text us (preferred) or call for appointment at (512) 810-2079 and see our website for information at: www.drugfreeaustin.com
Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. Outpatient Detox and Treatment of Fentanyl Addiction. Specializing in: Suboxone for Opioid Addiction; Medical Detox; 12 Step Facilitation; and Dual Diagnosis treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and ADHD. Austin Monthly's Top Doctor in Addiction Medicine 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. On the Faculty of Texas A & M School of Medicine-Round Rock with extensive teaching experience in the field of Addiction Medicine. Text us (preferred) or call for appointment at (512) 810-2079 and see our website for information at: www.drugfreeaustin.com
(512) 810-2079 View (512) 810-2079
Photo of Allison Cox, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Ally Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Ally offers a collaborative, holistic approach while providing realistic and evidence-based care. She has experience in clinical research and a passion for educating and empowering clients. Outside of work, Ally enjoys reading, hiking, and crafting.
Ally Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Ally offers a collaborative, holistic approach while providing realistic and evidence-based care. She has experience in clinical research and a passion for educating and empowering clients. Outside of work, Ally enjoys reading, hiking, and crafting.
(512) 714-9035 View (512) 714-9035
Photo of Elizabeth Calvin - The Timothy Center Medical, MD, PA-C, NP, Psychiatrist
The Timothy Center Medical
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, NP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
The Timothy Center is a collaborative group of therapists and medication providers founded in 2001 by Dr. Jimmy Myers, offering individual, couples, family, and group therapy as well as medication management. We are dedicated to individual assessment and treatment, and we are pleased to be able to accept many insurance plans. While we strongly believe in therapy, life-style, and environmental changes, we also believe that medication may be helpful, and is sometimes needed, for people to achieve remission of symptoms.
The Timothy Center is a collaborative group of therapists and medication providers founded in 2001 by Dr. Jimmy Myers, offering individual, couples, family, and group therapy as well as medication management. We are dedicated to individual assessment and treatment, and we are pleased to be able to accept many insurance plans. While we strongly believe in therapy, life-style, and environmental changes, we also believe that medication may be helpful, and is sometimes needed, for people to achieve remission of symptoms.
(512) 982-6287 View (512) 982-6287
Photo of Blessing O Benjamin - De-Blessed Mental Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
De-Blessed Mental Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
De-Blessed Mental Wellness, PLLC, is a one-stop practice for your mental health. Our care model considers the holistic nature of mind and body. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, schizophrenia, insomnia, major depression, psychotic disorders, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse and addiction, and other mental health conditions. We also offer individual psychotherapy. We are currently accepting new clients...
De-Blessed Mental Wellness, PLLC, is a one-stop practice for your mental health. Our care model considers the holistic nature of mind and body. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, schizophrenia, insomnia, major depression, psychotic disorders, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse and addiction, and other mental health conditions. We also offer individual psychotherapy. We are currently accepting new clients...
(346) 697-6065 View (346) 697-6065
Photo of Joshua Paul Maniscalco - Westlake Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Westlake Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
(737) 530-7904 View (737) 530-7904
Photo of Daniel Coleman, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Coleman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
(469) 813-7902 View (469) 813-7902
Photo of Nkenna Ajagba - Women's Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkenna Ajagba - Women's Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78730
Hi there. I'm an integrative psychiatric provider. I specialize in working with women and mothers struggling with irritability, anxiety, OCD, perinatal (pregnancy/postpartum) mood and anxiety symptoms, disordered eating, PMS/PMDD, and perimenopause. I offer holistic treatments that integrate mind, body, spirit, culture, community, and environment in your care.
Hi there. I'm an integrative psychiatric provider. I specialize in working with women and mothers struggling with irritability, anxiety, OCD, perinatal (pregnancy/postpartum) mood and anxiety symptoms, disordered eating, PMS/PMDD, and perimenopause. I offer holistic treatments that integrate mind, body, spirit, culture, community, and environment in your care.
(512) 549-6068 View (512) 549-6068
Photo of Ian M Crooks, MD, Psychiatrist
Ian M Crooks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Optimal Psychiatry, Dr. Crooks understands the profound impact mental health has on every aspect of life. Dr. Ian M Crooks, MD, is an ABPN Board Certified psychiatrist with 12 years of dedicated experience. His practice is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Dr. Crooks brings a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and a holistic approach to mental health care, ensuring every patient feels heard, understood, and supported. Dr. Crooks believes in a patient-centered approach, emphasizing individualized care and the latest advancements in psychiatric research and therapy.
At Optimal Psychiatry, Dr. Crooks understands the profound impact mental health has on every aspect of life. Dr. Ian M Crooks, MD, is an ABPN Board Certified psychiatrist with 12 years of dedicated experience. His practice is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Dr. Crooks brings a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and a holistic approach to mental health care, ensuring every patient feels heard, understood, and supported. Dr. Crooks believes in a patient-centered approach, emphasizing individualized care and the latest advancements in psychiatric research and therapy.
(512) 271-5156 View (512) 271-5156
Photo of Tyson Lippe, MD, Psychiatrist
Tyson Lippe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
I believe all of us will be impacted by mental health at some point, be it personally or from those around us. Because psychiatric conditions are so ubiquitous, it requires individualized approaches. Together, we will find the correct blend of treatments for you to drive change in your life and better your future.
I believe all of us will be impacted by mental health at some point, be it personally or from those around us. Because psychiatric conditions are so ubiquitous, it requires individualized approaches. Together, we will find the correct blend of treatments for you to drive change in your life and better your future.
(512) 607-9404 View (512) 607-9404
Photo of Dr. Andrew Wong, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrew Wong
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of all psychiatric and mental health concerns through psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I work together with individuals to treat mood issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, autism, and/or behavioral issues. I like to collaborate care with families, therapists, or other providers. I will work to explore various treatment options and modalities best suited to one's needs.
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of all psychiatric and mental health concerns through psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I work together with individuals to treat mood issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, autism, and/or behavioral issues. I like to collaborate care with families, therapists, or other providers. I will work to explore various treatment options and modalities best suited to one's needs.
(512) 572-4268 View (512) 572-4268
Photo of Dr. Lynn Spillar, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lynn Spillar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 20 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals ages 18-62 and address ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am focused on providing thoughtful and individualized care, integrating pharmacotherapy with individual psychotherapy. I believe a comprehensive understanding of one's experiences helps in leading a brave authentic life, and I am dedicated to helping my patients find this.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 20 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals ages 18-62 and address ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am focused on providing thoughtful and individualized care, integrating pharmacotherapy with individual psychotherapy. I believe a comprehensive understanding of one's experiences helps in leading a brave authentic life, and I am dedicated to helping my patients find this.
(512) 357-7234 View (512) 357-7234
Photo of Joshua M Langohr, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joshua M Langohr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Seeking treatment for a mental health concern can be anxiety-provoking! I would like to help make it a little easier for you. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment in order to help you through these difficult times. My approach to care is person-centered, culturally competent, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and sex positive.
Seeking treatment for a mental health concern can be anxiety-provoking! I would like to help make it a little easier for you. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment in order to help you through these difficult times. My approach to care is person-centered, culturally competent, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and sex positive.
(512) 399-1485 x102 View (512) 399-1485 x102
Photo of Munira Jiwani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Imagine a place where your story is the focus—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to navigate them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
Imagine a place where your story is the focus—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to navigate them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
(737) 380-1602 View (737) 380-1602
Photo of Kevin Grabski, MD, Psychiatrist
Kevin Grabski
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78751
To me, the most rewarding aspect of psychiatry is building therapeutic relationships. I believe that understanding you as a person, not just your symptoms, is essential for successful treatment. Whether through ongoing therapy or simply managing medications, a strong connection is the foundation of effective care. While I have expertise in psychopharmacology, I view medication as most beneficial when paired with psychotherapy. In cases where medication is necessary, it is not typically the whole solution. My goal is to provide holistic care whether this involves medication, therapy, or both.
To me, the most rewarding aspect of psychiatry is building therapeutic relationships. I believe that understanding you as a person, not just your symptoms, is essential for successful treatment. Whether through ongoing therapy or simply managing medications, a strong connection is the foundation of effective care. While I have expertise in psychopharmacology, I view medication as most beneficial when paired with psychotherapy. In cases where medication is necessary, it is not typically the whole solution. My goal is to provide holistic care whether this involves medication, therapy, or both.
(737) 299-8674 View (737) 299-8674
Photo of Daniel Hochman, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Hochman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I specialize in comprehensive treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and PTSD that have been poorly responsive to other trials of treatment. After developing a process to treat people with lifelong, difficult to treat addiction, I created www.selfrecovery.org as a way to help people access good help from anywhere. As a physician I can prescribe medication, but I always include therapy to best identify and heal the actual source of the symptoms. I will take the time to review your past treatment, and enjoy improving on remaining gaps to help you reach your potential.
I specialize in comprehensive treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and PTSD that have been poorly responsive to other trials of treatment. After developing a process to treat people with lifelong, difficult to treat addiction, I created www.selfrecovery.org as a way to help people access good help from anywhere. As a physician I can prescribe medication, but I always include therapy to best identify and heal the actual source of the symptoms. I will take the time to review your past treatment, and enjoy improving on remaining gaps to help you reach your potential.
(512) 872-5819 View (512) 872-5819
Photo of Mary Tuttle, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Tuttle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78730
Sometimes its hard being a person. Life can become overwhelming for all of us at times. I am a board certified psychiatric and family practice DNP, uniquely qualified in the whole person approach to healing. My extensive experience allows me to perform psychiatric evaluations, and to diagnose and provide treatments for most psychiatric and medical conditions. I treat anxiety, mood, ADHD, trauma autism and bipolar disorders in children, adolescents and adults. Ultimately my goal is to offer hope and to empower others to tap into their essential core of strength and goodness by promoting self awareness and self compassion.
Sometimes its hard being a person. Life can become overwhelming for all of us at times. I am a board certified psychiatric and family practice DNP, uniquely qualified in the whole person approach to healing. My extensive experience allows me to perform psychiatric evaluations, and to diagnose and provide treatments for most psychiatric and medical conditions. I treat anxiety, mood, ADHD, trauma autism and bipolar disorders in children, adolescents and adults. Ultimately my goal is to offer hope and to empower others to tap into their essential core of strength and goodness by promoting self awareness and self compassion.
View
Photo of Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(737) 758-3383 View (737) 758-3383
Photo of Molly Quigley Clayton - Westlake Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse
Westlake Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
(737) 371-9430 View (737) 371-9430
Photo of Zhan Yang, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zhan Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2013. I offer medication management services both in person and through telepsychiatry to ages 12 and older. My approach focuses on integrated mental health and physical well beings. Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of psychiatric settings with various age groups, including both acute psychiatric hospitals and long-term care facilities.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2013. I offer medication management services both in person and through telepsychiatry to ages 12 and older. My approach focuses on integrated mental health and physical well beings. Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of psychiatric settings with various age groups, including both acute psychiatric hospitals and long-term care facilities.
(512) 883-4621 View (512) 883-4621
Photo of Arif Noorbaksh, MD, Psychiatrist
Arif Noorbaksh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I strive to meet you where you are on your journey—no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a personalized, in-depth approach. We’ll develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real relief and renewed hope for your well-being.
I strive to meet you where you are on your journey—no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a personalized, in-depth approach. We’ll develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real relief and renewed hope for your well-being.
(469) 437-9400 View (469) 437-9400
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
82% Bipolar Disorder
80% Trauma and PTSD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Medication Management
74% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Austin, TX see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
28% 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.