Psychiatrists in Brazoria County, TX

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Photo of Onyinyechi Nwakanma, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Onyinyechi Nwakanma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.
(832) 789-3182 View (832) 789-3182
Photo of Angela Tefft, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
(281) 572-0598 View (281) 572-0598
Photo of Michael Caltzontzint, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Caltzontzint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584
Hello, my name is Mike Caltzontzint and I am a licensed board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My interest in mental health began after serving 5 years in the United States Marine Corps from 2004-2009. I began to understand the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on military veterans as well as many Americans in the general population. This led me to pursue a career in nursing. I graduated from The University of Texas in Austin with my bachelors degree and later returned to complete my masters degree at UT Health Science Center in Houston.
Hello, my name is Mike Caltzontzint and I am a licensed board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My interest in mental health began after serving 5 years in the United States Marine Corps from 2004-2009. I began to understand the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on military veterans as well as many Americans in the general population. This led me to pursue a career in nursing. I graduated from The University of Texas in Austin with my bachelors degree and later returned to complete my masters degree at UT Health Science Center in Houston.
(832) 905-1324 View (832) 905-1324
Photo of Christine Chioma - Chi Med Psych PLLC, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chi Med Psych PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rosharon, TX 77583
I am Christine Chioma, an APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and have over 20years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a passion for helping people cut ties with mental illness and gain health and wellness through a holistic approach of care. This means identifying the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual components of my clients’ suffering. Also, I am an empathic listener.
I am Christine Chioma, an APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and have over 20years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a passion for helping people cut ties with mental illness and gain health and wellness through a holistic approach of care. This means identifying the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual components of my clients’ suffering. Also, I am an empathic listener.
(281) 247-5885 View (281) 247-5885
Photo of Faiza Haque Pmhnp Bc - Proactive Minds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Faiza Haque Pmhnp Bc - Proactive Minds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
Ms. Haque is committed to making each patient's experience at the practice as comfortable and practical as possible. She believes that an amalgamation of sound medical judgment, technology, and an optimistic attitude are needed to guarantee quick recovery and thorough care.
Ms. Haque is committed to making each patient's experience at the practice as comfortable and practical as possible. She believes that an amalgamation of sound medical judgment, technology, and an optimistic attitude are needed to guarantee quick recovery and thorough care.
(720) 637-3257 View (720) 637-3257
Photo of Kelly Martinez, MSN,  APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING ONLINE NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENTS!!! Every person has a story and it is my goal to help you achieve a better you. I believe my compassion and empathy shines through in my practice. I believe in equal participation from both myself and my clients. Every patient should have a voice in their treatment plan. I will work with you to come up with a treatment that not only helps you but makes you feel comfortable with it as well. My scope of practice includes the promotion of mental health along with the diagnosis and management of behavioral matters.
ACCEPTING ONLINE NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENTS!!! Every person has a story and it is my goal to help you achieve a better you. I believe my compassion and empathy shines through in my practice. I believe in equal participation from both myself and my clients. Every patient should have a voice in their treatment plan. I will work with you to come up with a treatment that not only helps you but makes you feel comfortable with it as well. My scope of practice includes the promotion of mental health along with the diagnosis and management of behavioral matters.
(281) 886-7303 View (281) 886-7303
Photo of Kimberly Wingard, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Wingard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Are you feeling overwhelmed by symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or ADD/ADHD? Maybe you're struggling with substance use issues and searching for a way to regain control of your life. I know how challenging this journey can be, and I'm here to offer you the compassionate support you deserve. At Vitality Wellness Clinic, I provide a custom approach to each client, along with continuous support, effective treatment plans, and a safe space for you to share your journey. My goal is to help you feel better, achieve emotional stability, and reclaim your joy and purpose in life!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or ADD/ADHD? Maybe you're struggling with substance use issues and searching for a way to regain control of your life. I know how challenging this journey can be, and I'm here to offer you the compassionate support you deserve. At Vitality Wellness Clinic, I provide a custom approach to each client, along with continuous support, effective treatment plans, and a safe space for you to share your journey. My goal is to help you feel better, achieve emotional stability, and reclaim your joy and purpose in life!
(832) 981-1113 View (832) 981-1113
Photo of Kimberly Bernard Wingard - Solid Foundation Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Meet Ms. Kimberly PMHNP-BC, your dedicated provider on the path to mental wellness. With a passion for healing and a wealth of experience, I bring warmth, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and uncover the strength within you. Trust in our journey toward healing and growth.
Meet Ms. Kimberly PMHNP-BC, your dedicated provider on the path to mental wellness. With a passion for healing and a wealth of experience, I bring warmth, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and uncover the strength within you. Trust in our journey toward healing and growth.
(832) 400-3049 View (832) 400-3049
Photo of Felicitas Okwara - Inclusive Psychiatry LLC, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inclusive Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, Schizophrenia etc. seeking stability and improved quality of life. They need a holistic treatment plan, including medication management and therapy. Their goal is to regain daily functionality and emotional balance. They want tailored, empathetic care to understand and manage their mental health. They seek this to achieve personal and professional success and well-being.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, Schizophrenia etc. seeking stability and improved quality of life. They need a holistic treatment plan, including medication management and therapy. Their goal is to regain daily functionality and emotional balance. They want tailored, empathetic care to understand and manage their mental health. They seek this to achieve personal and professional success and well-being.
(346) 480-6437 View (346) 480-6437
Photo of Sherry Young, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherry Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584
You do not need to feel ashamed when you are mentally ill. Mental health is connected to various aspects of a person's life, including physical health, relationships, work, and more. Do not hesitate to see a psychiatric specialist when you need help. Let's work it out together.
You do not need to feel ashamed when you are mentally ill. Mental health is connected to various aspects of a person's life, including physical health, relationships, work, and more. Do not hesitate to see a psychiatric specialist when you need help. Let's work it out together.
(832) 979-5278 View (832) 979-5278
Photo of Dr. Victor Varghese, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Victor Varghese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Jackson, TX 77566  (Online Only)
At Next Level Psychiatric Care, we focus on holistic and integrative care that responds to people’s needs. I believe Psychiatric condition is something that can be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Adopting a Person-Centered approach helps to reduce stress levels and focuses on facilitating people to live independent and fulfilling lives. My goal is to help you reach your optimum level of care in mental health.
At Next Level Psychiatric Care, we focus on holistic and integrative care that responds to people’s needs. I believe Psychiatric condition is something that can be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Adopting a Person-Centered approach helps to reduce stress levels and focuses on facilitating people to live independent and fulfilling lives. My goal is to help you reach your optimum level of care in mental health.
(813) 590-4987 View (813) 590-4987
Photo of Martha Lino, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martha Lino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581  (Online Only)
I’m an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I specialize in treating mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and substance abuse. I possess a special interest in assisting immigrant populations and a strong expertise in providing psychiatric mental health care in emergency settings.
I’m an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I specialize in treating mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and substance abuse. I possess a special interest in assisting immigrant populations and a strong expertise in providing psychiatric mental health care in emergency settings.
(346) 699-7266 View (346) 699-7266
Photo of Sangeeta Awasthi, MD, Psychiatrist
Sangeeta Awasthi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my holistic tele-psychiatry practice! I'm dedicated to improving your overall health by considering both your mental and physical well-being. My approach combines lifestyle, mindset, nutrition, and exercise with pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy to provide comprehensive care. With expertise in depression, bipolar illness, chronic illnesses, and helping individuals find their spark, I'm here to support you on your wellness journey.
Welcome to my holistic tele-psychiatry practice! I'm dedicated to improving your overall health by considering both your mental and physical well-being. My approach combines lifestyle, mindset, nutrition, and exercise with pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy to provide comprehensive care. With expertise in depression, bipolar illness, chronic illnesses, and helping individuals find their spark, I'm here to support you on your wellness journey.
(281) 462-5261 View (281) 462-5261
Photo of Dana Lewis, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
Clients with mental health conditions often need to feel understood and validated in their experiences and emotions. They may have concerns about whether their feelings are normal or valid and seek reassurance that their struggles are recognized and taken seriously. Many clients seek help managing distressing symptoms associated with mental health conditions. As a mental health provider, it is my goal to address the specific needs of each individual while helping them achieve the stability needed to be productive and successful throughout their life.
Clients with mental health conditions often need to feel understood and validated in their experiences and emotions. They may have concerns about whether their feelings are normal or valid and seek reassurance that their struggles are recognized and taken seriously. Many clients seek help managing distressing symptoms associated with mental health conditions. As a mental health provider, it is my goal to address the specific needs of each individual while helping them achieve the stability needed to be productive and successful throughout their life.
(832) 906-8841 View (832) 906-8841
Photo of Ben Bernard Osevwe - Solid Foundation Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Hello! I'm Ed Osevwe, your dedicated partner in achieving optimal mental health. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I've committed my professional life to assisting individuals like yourself in discovering inner peace and fulfillment. Whether you're contending with the challenges of anxiety, experiencing periods of sadness, or facing difficulties with concentration, I am here to support you every step of the way on your path to well-being. I am committed to fostering a secure and empathetic environment where you can authentically express yourself without fear of judgment.
Hello! I'm Ed Osevwe, your dedicated partner in achieving optimal mental health. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I've committed my professional life to assisting individuals like yourself in discovering inner peace and fulfillment. Whether you're contending with the challenges of anxiety, experiencing periods of sadness, or facing difficulties with concentration, I am here to support you every step of the way on your path to well-being. I am committed to fostering a secure and empathetic environment where you can authentically express yourself without fear of judgment.
(346) 484-4937 View (346) 484-4937
Photo of Faiza Haque, PMHNP, Mental , Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Faiza Haque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Mental , Health
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Faiza uses a holistic approach to diagnose and treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, providing medications, making assessments, and planning patient centered interventions. She believes that our lifestyle, including dietary choices and exercise habits, has a significant impact on our well-being as a proponent of preventative care.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Faiza uses a holistic approach to diagnose and treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, providing medications, making assessments, and planning patient centered interventions. She believes that our lifestyle, including dietary choices and exercise habits, has a significant impact on our well-being as a proponent of preventative care.
(346) 525-3398 View (346) 525-3398
Photo of Aishwarya Raju, DO, Psychiatrist
Aishwarya Raju
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
I treat a variety of patients that include ages 5 and up and all socioeconomic ranges. I aim to provide my patients with whatever they may need through my outpatient programs.
I treat a variety of patients that include ages 5 and up and all socioeconomic ranges. I aim to provide my patients with whatever they may need through my outpatient programs.
(832) 261-9289 View (832) 261-9289
Photo of Faiza Haque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Faiza Haque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Faiza uses a holistic approach to diagnose and treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, providing medications, making assessments, and planning patient centered interventions. She believes that our lifestyle, including dietary choices and exercise habits, has a significant impact on our well-being as a proponent of preventative care.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Faiza uses a holistic approach to diagnose and treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, providing medications, making assessments, and planning patient centered interventions. She believes that our lifestyle, including dietary choices and exercise habits, has a significant impact on our well-being as a proponent of preventative care.
(346) 553-1295 View (346) 553-1295
Photo of Arun A Andrews, MD, Psychiatrist
Arun A Andrews
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584
I am a physician specialized in providing psychiatric care to children,adolescents,teens and adults. Through my practice I address a wide range of mental heath issues, including Depression,Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety Disorders.
I am a physician specialized in providing psychiatric care to children,adolescents,teens and adults. Through my practice I address a wide range of mental heath issues, including Depression,Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety Disorders.
(281) 915-0442 View (281) 915-0442
Photo of Prashant Gajwani - Mind Matters Psychiatry/ Dr. Prashant Gajwani, MD, Psychiatrist
Mind Matters Psychiatry/ Dr. Prashant Gajwani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584
When you struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other common mental health disorders, it’s easy to live life going through the motions day after day. However, with the right treatments, support, and care, you can gain control of your symptoms and enjoy life again. As the Medical Director of Mind Matters Psychiatry, I take a holistic approach to healing when it comes to your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our compassionate, patient-centered philosophy ensures individualized, comprehensive care plan in which mental health and social needs receive equal attention to traditional treatment.
When you struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other common mental health disorders, it’s easy to live life going through the motions day after day. However, with the right treatments, support, and care, you can gain control of your symptoms and enjoy life again. As the Medical Director of Mind Matters Psychiatry, I take a holistic approach to healing when it comes to your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our compassionate, patient-centered philosophy ensures individualized, comprehensive care plan in which mental health and social needs receive equal attention to traditional treatment.
(832) 583-2198 View (832) 583-2198
1

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Brazoria County, TX

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Brazoria County, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
92% Anxiety
82% Bipolar Disorder
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD
63% Psychosis
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Brazoria County, TX see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Brazoria County?

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.