Psychiatrists in Brazos County, TX

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Photo of Billie Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Billie Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802
I have been working in the field of psychiatry for over 20 years. I enjoy working with my clients to help improve their lives. I am holistic and believe that everything about you is vital to your care. We will work together to form specific plans and goals to meet your needs, i.e., medication management, therapy, or alternative treatments. I work with ages 5 and up. We take insurances and are working to expand our insurers. It is important that everyone have access to services. We see patients in person in Bryan, Texas. I am licensed in TX/CO/NM/WA.
I have been working in the field of psychiatry for over 20 years. I enjoy working with my clients to help improve their lives. I am holistic and believe that everything about you is vital to your care. We will work together to form specific plans and goals to meet your needs, i.e., medication management, therapy, or alternative treatments. I work with ages 5 and up. We take insurances and are working to expand our insurers. It is important that everyone have access to services. We see patients in person in Bryan, Texas. I am licensed in TX/CO/NM/WA.
(979) 201-8969 View (979) 201-8969
Photo of Jim Simon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Jim Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
(979) 406-5618 View (979) 406-5618
Photo of David M Dranetz, Psychiatrist, MD
David M Dranetz
Psychiatrist, MD
College Station, TX 77845
I have been a Psychiatrist for about 30 years. I have treated patients in a variety of settings, including general hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical school faculty, addiction treatment centers, community mental health centers, and Psychiatric hospitals. My training was extensive in both medication management and psychotherapy, and my experience in all settings is that patients have the best outcome when patient are willing to work collaboratively on identifying stressors, creating treatment goals, building of personal strengths and insights, with medication being a tool in this process.
I have been a Psychiatrist for about 30 years. I have treated patients in a variety of settings, including general hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical school faculty, addiction treatment centers, community mental health centers, and Psychiatric hospitals. My training was extensive in both medication management and psychotherapy, and my experience in all settings is that patients have the best outcome when patient are willing to work collaboratively on identifying stressors, creating treatment goals, building of personal strengths and insights, with medication being a tool in this process.
(979) 201-8794 View (979) 201-8794
Photo of Kathleen Roblyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DMin, APRN, PMHNP
Kathleen Roblyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DMin, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Things are getting harder. You know that you’re not functioning at your best, and traumatic events from your past are living rent-free in your mind. You know that something has to change, that there must be some way to find freedom from patterns of thought and behavior that keep you feeling trapped, but you don’t know how to start. That is why you’re here, looking for a collaborative provider who will meet you where you’re at and help you do the hard, but essential, work of healing. My name is Kathy Roblyer, and I am so glad you’re here!
Things are getting harder. You know that you’re not functioning at your best, and traumatic events from your past are living rent-free in your mind. You know that something has to change, that there must be some way to find freedom from patterns of thought and behavior that keep you feeling trapped, but you don’t know how to start. That is why you’re here, looking for a collaborative provider who will meet you where you’re at and help you do the hard, but essential, work of healing. My name is Kathy Roblyer, and I am so glad you’re here!
(979) 364-4716 View (979) 364-4716
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryan, TX 77802
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(979) 316-9889 View (979) 316-9889
Photo of Abara Dibaki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abara Dibaki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Abara Dibaki, PMHNP-BC, is a highly experienced mental health professional with over 13 years of healthcare experience, both locally and internationally. Driven by his dedication to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and wellness, Abara has developed a deep understanding of the complex interplay between mental health, culture and overall wellbeing by drawing from personal experiences and those of his patients.
Abara Dibaki, PMHNP-BC, is a highly experienced mental health professional with over 13 years of healthcare experience, both locally and internationally. Driven by his dedication to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and wellness, Abara has developed a deep understanding of the complex interplay between mental health, culture and overall wellbeing by drawing from personal experiences and those of his patients.
(979) 481-8925 View (979) 481-8925
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryan, TX 77802
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(915) 221-1656 View (915) 221-1656
Photo of Trisha Michele' Lindeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Trisha Michele' Lindeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802
I am very excited to work with any client who has the strength to enter a session with me. It can take a lot to ask for help. I have worked with clients in various settings, with various diagnosis and addictions. I became a nurse to work with people who are not well physically. I became a nurse practitioner to dive deeper into their lives to really make a difference.
I am very excited to work with any client who has the strength to enter a session with me. It can take a lot to ask for help. I have worked with clients in various settings, with various diagnosis and addictions. I became a nurse to work with people who are not well physically. I became a nurse practitioner to dive deeper into their lives to really make a difference.
(979) 406-7043 View (979) 406-7043
Photo of Omar Masihuddin (Addiction Treatment), Physician Assistant, PA-C
Omar Masihuddin (Addiction Treatment)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
College Station, TX 77845
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(979) 475-2693 View (979) 475-2693
Photo of Michelle Costlow, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle Costlow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802
Michelle has almost 15 years of nursing experience in various settings. We are proud of her dedicated service to her community members. She is caring, compassionate, and empathetic. We would also like to thank her for her service in the United States Air Force. She has a lot of life experience and clinical expertise to share with the world. Thank you for coming aboard. We love your passion!
Michelle has almost 15 years of nursing experience in various settings. We are proud of her dedicated service to her community members. She is caring, compassionate, and empathetic. We would also like to thank her for her service in the United States Air Force. She has a lot of life experience and clinical expertise to share with the world. Thank you for coming aboard. We love your passion!
(979) 271-6881 View (979) 271-6881
Photo of Joshua Freedman - HealthPiper, Psychiatrist
HealthPiper
Psychiatrist
Bryan, TX 77801
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(979) 428-8613 View (979) 428-8613
Photo of Tina Chapman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Tina Chapman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Tina is a board certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health. She is committed to providing individualized, culturally responsive care. She believes in meeting you where you are and appreciates the unique values and experiences that help define your journey. Tina prioritizes collaboration and values your insight. She looks forward to helping you define and achieve your wellness goals.
Tina is a board certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health. She is committed to providing individualized, culturally responsive care. She believes in meeting you where you are and appreciates the unique values and experiences that help define your journey. Tina prioritizes collaboration and values your insight. She looks forward to helping you define and achieve your wellness goals.
(210) 864-5824 View (210) 864-5824
Photo of Joy Ichie - A-1 Behavioral Health Services PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
A-1 Behavioral Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
3 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77840
We are currently accepting clients for in-person visits and virtual appointments with avaliabilities within 24-48hrs. At A-1 Behavioral Health Services, we provide evidence-based mental and behavioral health treatment options in a safe and healing environment where you can develop a path towards personal wellness and stability. We offer clients the individualized, holistic, and compassionate care they deserve to regain control of their mental health.
We are currently accepting clients for in-person visits and virtual appointments with avaliabilities within 24-48hrs. At A-1 Behavioral Health Services, we provide evidence-based mental and behavioral health treatment options in a safe and healing environment where you can develop a path towards personal wellness and stability. We offer clients the individualized, holistic, and compassionate care they deserve to regain control of their mental health.
(972) 449-7756 View (972) 449-7756
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
College Station, TX 77840
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77840
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatrist, MD
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription
(817) 693-8149 View (817) 693-8149
Photo of Daniella Gavito, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniella Gavito
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Daniella Gavito provides evaluations and treatment of the highest quality for young adults, adolescents, and children. Mental health problems can often begin in childhood and persist into adulthood. If left untreated, such problems can significantly impact multiple aspects of a person's life. It's crucial to receive the correct diagnosis and treatment early on, as people are often misdiagnosed and given treatments that don't work. Dr. Gavito is well-trained in identifying the accurate diagnosis and applying evidence-based treatment. She also uses rating scales to identify symptoms and track progress.
Dr. Daniella Gavito provides evaluations and treatment of the highest quality for young adults, adolescents, and children. Mental health problems can often begin in childhood and persist into adulthood. If left untreated, such problems can significantly impact multiple aspects of a person's life. It's crucial to receive the correct diagnosis and treatment early on, as people are often misdiagnosed and given treatments that don't work. Dr. Gavito is well-trained in identifying the accurate diagnosis and applying evidence-based treatment. She also uses rating scales to identify symptoms and track progress.
(859) 710-8916 View (859) 710-8916
Photo of Shirley Smith - JLyle Medical Clinic, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
JLyle Medical Clinic, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are expanding in Texas and you can reach me by calling: 1 (786) 755-1863 or Intake+Shirley21752
We are expanding in Texas and you can reach me by calling: 1 (786) 755-1863 or Intake+Shirley21752
(979) 200-6446 View (979) 200-6446
Photo of Richard Seldeen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Richard Seldeen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
(972) 430-4147 View (972) 430-4147
Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
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.
(210) 981-6747 View (210) 981-6747
1

See more therapy options for Brazos County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Brazos County, TX

20+

Average cost per session

$167

Psychiatrists in Brazos County, TX who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
88% Medication Management
85% Bipolar Disorder
73% Sleep or Insomnia
65% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
95% BlueCross and BlueShield
95% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Brazos County, TX see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Brazos 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.