Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX

Photo of Dr. Lauren Williams, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lauren Williams
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bee Cave, TX 78738
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
(512) 766-3061 View (512) 766-3061
Photo of May (Meiling) Wang - May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
(512) 778-0362 View (512) 778-0362
Photo of Britney Galvan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Britney Galvan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve lasting mental wellness through a holistic and personalized approach to care. I believe that mental health treatment should address the whole person, not just symptoms, and empower individuals to live their best lives. With a compassionate, patient-centered approach, I take the time to truly understand your unique needs, concerns, and goals. Whether you’re seeking medication management, therapy, or a comprehensive mental health plan, I work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that promotes healing,
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve lasting mental wellness through a holistic and personalized approach to care. I believe that mental health treatment should address the whole person, not just symptoms, and empower individuals to live their best lives. With a compassionate, patient-centered approach, I take the time to truly understand your unique needs, concerns, and goals. Whether you’re seeking medication management, therapy, or a comprehensive mental health plan, I work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that promotes healing,
(512) 710-0551 View (512) 710-0551
Photo of Bret Bellard, MD, Psychiatrist
Bret Bellard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 23 years of experience with mental health issues. I am certified in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine. I strive to treat all aspects of my patient's life, including exercise and nutrition in addition to counseling and medication. My goal is to empower patients to take the best care of themselves.
I have over 23 years of experience with mental health issues. I am certified in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine. I strive to treat all aspects of my patient's life, including exercise and nutrition in addition to counseling and medication. My goal is to empower patients to take the best care of themselves.
(512) 710-0551 View (512) 710-0551
Photo of Isela Werchan, MD, Psychiatrist
Isela Werchan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Isela Werchan is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry. Dr. Werchan completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at El Paso. She received a medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She completed a general psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. She was Chief Resident and awarded the VA Outstanding Resident Award and the Van Dao Award. Her training experience includes the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic and obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as psychotic disorders.
Dr. Isela Werchan is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry. Dr. Werchan completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at El Paso. She received a medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She completed a general psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. She was Chief Resident and awarded the VA Outstanding Resident Award and the Van Dao Award. Her training experience includes the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic and obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as psychotic disorders.
(512) 271-5179 View (512) 271-5179
Photo of Michael Alan Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Alan Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing in West Lake Hills, Texas. In my office, or through telepsychiatry, I treat adults, adolescents, couples and families using a broad variety of methods and techniques, and, most importantly, an empathic and non-judgmental approach. My practice is collaborative, person-centered and holistic. Working with you, I will provide psychotherapy and, when appropriate, medication management. I will take the time and strive with you to develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and wishes and to provide the best solution and the best result.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing in West Lake Hills, Texas. In my office, or through telepsychiatry, I treat adults, adolescents, couples and families using a broad variety of methods and techniques, and, most importantly, an empathic and non-judgmental approach. My practice is collaborative, person-centered and holistic. Working with you, I will provide psychotherapy and, when appropriate, medication management. I will take the time and strive with you to develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and wishes and to provide the best solution and the best result.
(512) 710-0551 View (512) 710-0551
Photo of Carlos Tirado, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Carlos Tirado
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Tirado is Board Certified in General and Addiction and Addiction Medicine. He is a recognized thought leader, innovator, mentor and clinical expert in addiction treatment and systems of care. Dr. Tirado spent the first half of his career in academia holding faculty appointments at University of Pennsylvania and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He subsequently has developed and implemented hospital, facility-based and outpatient addiction treatment services, outpatient chronic pain management and primary care for addiction programs. His consulting work concentrates on medication therapy and clinical trials, health plans, peer recovery support, expert witness and medical board review.
Dr. Tirado is Board Certified in General and Addiction and Addiction Medicine. He is a recognized thought leader, innovator, mentor and clinical expert in addiction treatment and systems of care. Dr. Tirado spent the first half of his career in academia holding faculty appointments at University of Pennsylvania and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He subsequently has developed and implemented hospital, facility-based and outpatient addiction treatment services, outpatient chronic pain management and primary care for addiction programs. His consulting work concentrates on medication therapy and clinical trials, health plans, peer recovery support, expert witness and medical board review.
(512) 360-9356 View (512) 360-9356
Photo of April Gonzales, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I’m so glad you’re here! I’m April, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15+ years of experience as a Registered Nurse in pediatric and adult settings. I chose to specialize in mental health to help destigmatize mental health conditions and improve access to care. My own journey through therapy helped me recognize the importance of addressing mental health as it relates to physical health. I take a trauma-informed, holistic and culturally sensitive approach to help my clients identify and address underlying factors that negatively impact their overall quality of life.
I’m so glad you’re here! I’m April, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15+ years of experience as a Registered Nurse in pediatric and adult settings. I chose to specialize in mental health to help destigmatize mental health conditions and improve access to care. My own journey through therapy helped me recognize the importance of addressing mental health as it relates to physical health. I take a trauma-informed, holistic and culturally sensitive approach to help my clients identify and address underlying factors that negatively impact their overall quality of life.
(512) 710-0551 View (512) 710-0551
Photo of Zhan Yang, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zhan Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Richard Sambrook, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Sambrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
(512) 710-0551 View (512) 710-0551
Photo of Justin Scaffa, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justin Scaffa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am looking for those people who don't understand why they feel the way they do because one of my greatest pleasures is to help you find answers and the steps to get better. I enjoy teaching my patients and can often make the complex disorders understandable. I like to empower my patients to choose the best treatments for them. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I am up to date on the latest treatments but I also love when I can help people off of their medications for good.
I am looking for those people who don't understand why they feel the way they do because one of my greatest pleasures is to help you find answers and the steps to get better. I enjoy teaching my patients and can often make the complex disorders understandable. I like to empower my patients to choose the best treatments for them. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I am up to date on the latest treatments but I also love when I can help people off of their medications for good.
(512) 710-0551 View (512) 710-0551

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sandra Clough, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Clough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Arizona and in Washington State . I am board certified by ANCC.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Arizona and in Washington State . I am board certified by ANCC.
(346) 680-4264 View (346) 680-4264
Photo of Kiany Casillas, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kiany Casillas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Aloha, I’m Kiany Casillas. Are you feeling weighed down by an inner struggle, wondering if there’s a way out? Remember, you don’t have to face these challenges alone—we’re in this together. My approach is all about crafting a treatment plan just for you, with your unique journey and needs in mind. While I may not have every answer at the ready, I’m confident in our ability to uncover them and help you move toward a brighter, more fulfilling life. Let’s take those first steps together toward the happier, healthier you.
Aloha, I’m Kiany Casillas. Are you feeling weighed down by an inner struggle, wondering if there’s a way out? Remember, you don’t have to face these challenges alone—we’re in this together. My approach is all about crafting a treatment plan just for you, with your unique journey and needs in mind. While I may not have every answer at the ready, I’m confident in our ability to uncover them and help you move toward a brighter, more fulfilling life. Let’s take those first steps together toward the happier, healthier you.
(806) 216-3473 View (806) 216-3473
Photo of Shalanda Cross- Psychiatry Texas, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shalanda Cross- Psychiatry Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
A board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patient advocacy, behavioral interventions, and mood disorders. It is important as a provider that patients have a safe environment to discuss mental health issues without feeling stigmatized. Patients will work collaboratively to address unhealthy thoughts and actions, work towards improving mood disorders, create healthy goals, and regain self-confidence.
A board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patient advocacy, behavioral interventions, and mood disorders. It is important as a provider that patients have a safe environment to discuss mental health issues without feeling stigmatized. Patients will work collaboratively to address unhealthy thoughts and actions, work towards improving mood disorders, create healthy goals, and regain self-confidence.
(512) 883-1917 View (512) 883-1917
Photo of Hyojin Han, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hyojin Han
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with prescribing authority. I offer medication management, alone or in combination with psychotherapy, to adults. We schedule new patient appointments through a form on our website. Please provide the requested information, and a member of our staff will respond promptly!
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with prescribing authority. I offer medication management, alone or in combination with psychotherapy, to adults. We schedule new patient appointments through a form on our website. Please provide the requested information, and a member of our staff will respond promptly!
(512) 764-0805 View (512) 764-0805
Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Mistee J Jefferies, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mistee J Jefferies
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(512) 667-7506 View (512) 667-7506
Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
(281) 248-8676 View (281) 248-8676
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 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

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Substance Use
64% Addiction

Average years in practice

22 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
70% Other

How Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bee Cave?

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.