Psychiatrists in Bastrop, TX

Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.
Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.

Kayode Zacchaeus Oluwayomi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.

Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.

In my small practice, I focus on truly getting to know you and your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, or feeling stuck in life transitions, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll break free from old patterns and find practical ways to create lasting change. Here, you’ll have a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard and respected as we work on building resilience, strengthening relationships, and gaining the confidence to face whatever life brings.
In my small practice, I focus on truly getting to know you and your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, or feeling stuck in life transitions, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll break free from old patterns and find practical ways to create lasting change. Here, you’ll have a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard and respected as we work on building resilience, strengthening relationships, and gaining the confidence to face whatever life brings.

Pacificah Nyangau Doctor Of Nursing Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN-RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Anselm Onyeneke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.

Prasanna Sharma - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.

Accepting new clients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new clients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.

Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.

Rachal is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated with her MPAS from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2023 and began pursuing her passion of supporting mental health through psychiatry. Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses. She provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy in collaboration with Dr. Khan.
Rachal is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated with her MPAS from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2023 and began pursuing her passion of supporting mental health through psychiatry. Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses. She provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy in collaboration with Dr. Khan.

I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I maintain a comprehensive approach to care, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing mental health medications if indicated for adults ages 20+. You will receive compassionate and timely care. I am available online weekday evenings for individuals that cannot be seen usual business hours. Please refer to my Alma/Headway web sites for available appointments. If you do not see an appointment you need, email me with the desired appointment and I will call you to set up a time.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I maintain a comprehensive approach to care, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing mental health medications if indicated for adults ages 20+. You will receive compassionate and timely care. I am available online weekday evenings for individuals that cannot be seen usual business hours. Please refer to my Alma/Headway web sites for available appointments. If you do not see an appointment you need, email me with the desired appointment and I will call you to set up a time.

Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 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.

Tristan Hartman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Hello, I'm Tristan Hartman, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to individuals. With a diverse background that spans from emergency room nursing to specialized psychiatric care, my journey into mental health care began with a deep-seated appreciation for helping others. Now based in Austin, I am thrilled to be part of Austin Family Mental Health, where I offer comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health conditions including mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, addiction, trauma, and more.
Hello, I'm Tristan Hartman, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to individuals. With a diverse background that spans from emergency room nursing to specialized psychiatric care, my journey into mental health care began with a deep-seated appreciation for helping others. Now based in Austin, I am thrilled to be part of Austin Family Mental Health, where I offer comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health conditions including mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, addiction, trauma, and more.

I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.
I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.

My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, dealing with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, inattention or focus, and transitions in life. They seek support in balancing responsibilities, managing stress, or gaining confidence in their decisions. I offer a unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic expertise, creating a non-judgmental space to explore their needs. Through a collaborative approach, I provide practical strategies, medication management and therapy to foster self-awareness, resilience, and lasting personal growth.
My ideal client is navigating the challenges of adulthood, dealing with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, inattention or focus, and transitions in life. They seek support in balancing responsibilities, managing stress, or gaining confidence in their decisions. I offer a unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic expertise, creating a non-judgmental space to explore their needs. Through a collaborative approach, I provide practical strategies, medication management and therapy to foster self-awareness, resilience, and lasting personal growth.

Welcome! Dr. Riley is board certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. She provides psychopharmacology for patients in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1999 and completed her residency and fellowship at The University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 2004. She has been in practice in Austin, Texas since 2004. To find out more about her practice, please visit her website.
Welcome! Dr. Riley is board certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. She provides psychopharmacology for patients in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1999 and completed her residency and fellowship at The University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 2004. She has been in practice in Austin, Texas since 2004. To find out more about her practice, please visit her website.

Neema Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you suffering from: anxiety, depression, OCD, or other mental health conditions? Do they hold you back from living a balanced, stable life? We invite you to learn more about your treatment options available on your path to recovery. Call us at (469)-630-8830 to schedule your appointment for a free, confidential assessment today. Or visit us at our website to book an appointment. We are a full-service psychiatric facility that puts our patients’ care at the center of what we do, collaborating individually with every person to provide a treatment plan that works with them and their schedule.
Are you suffering from: anxiety, depression, OCD, or other mental health conditions? Do they hold you back from living a balanced, stable life? We invite you to learn more about your treatment options available on your path to recovery. Call us at (469)-630-8830 to schedule your appointment for a free, confidential assessment today. Or visit us at our website to book an appointment. We are a full-service psychiatric facility that puts our patients’ care at the center of what we do, collaborating individually with every person to provide a treatment plan that works with them and their schedule.

Elena Cosenza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGCNS, BC
Verified Verified
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.

Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. I’m Eva Kirara, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in ICU nursing and mental health advocacy. Inspired by personal experiences and work in critical care, I understand the importance of feeling heard and supported. Serving adults 18 to 60, I strive to create a safe, empathetic space where we can work together to navigate your journey toward emotional well-being and a better quality of life.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. I’m Eva Kirara, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in ICU nursing and mental health advocacy. Inspired by personal experiences and work in critical care, I understand the importance of feeling heard and supported. Serving adults 18 to 60, I strive to create a safe, empathetic space where we can work together to navigate your journey toward emotional well-being and a better quality of life.

Latosha Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I advocate a collaborative approach to mental health, valuing your input to shape your treatment plan. I focus on honest, transparent discussions about the effectiveness of your care, integrating medication with psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, exercise, and mindfulness. Our supportive environment is perfect if you’re eager to actively participate in your mental health journey and explore diverse treatments. My commitment to a patient-first philosophy ensures your treatment is customized to meet your unique needs. Embark on your transformative path here.
I advocate a collaborative approach to mental health, valuing your input to shape your treatment plan. I focus on honest, transparent discussions about the effectiveness of your care, integrating medication with psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, exercise, and mindfulness. Our supportive environment is perfect if you’re eager to actively participate in your mental health journey and explore diverse treatments. My commitment to a patient-first philosophy ensures your treatment is customized to meet your unique needs. Embark on your transformative path here.
See more therapy options for Bastrop
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bastrop, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bastrop, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
80% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Bastrop, TX see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bastrop?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.