Psychiatrists in Brownsville, TX
Vilma L Rangel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Brownsville, TX 78520
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides comprehensive, compassionate & exceptional mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a holistic approach together with scientific & clinical knowledge to diagnose mental illnesses to formulate a treatment plan that is developed based on individual needs & cultural preferences. Soy una enfermera practicante especializada en enfermedades mentales. proporciono cuidado basado en evidencia clinica tomando en cuenta el individuo y sus preferencias culturales.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides comprehensive, compassionate & exceptional mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a holistic approach together with scientific & clinical knowledge to diagnose mental illnesses to formulate a treatment plan that is developed based on individual needs & cultural preferences. Soy una enfermera practicante especializada en enfermedades mentales. proporciono cuidado basado en evidencia clinica tomando en cuenta el individuo y sus preferencias culturales.
Healthy Minds, Body, and Feet Center PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Brownsville, TX 78520
Our Mission Statement is to “Achieve a healthy body through a healthy mind.” We believe in providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care tailored to the unique needs of every person. With our commitment to fostering healing, understanding, and resilience we strive to create a supportive and safe environment where individuals can begin their journey to mental well-being. Through evidence-based practices, collaboration, and a holistic approach, our team is committed to helping clients achieve optimal mental health, empowering them to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Our Mission Statement is to “Achieve a healthy body through a healthy mind.” We believe in providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care tailored to the unique needs of every person. With our commitment to fostering healing, understanding, and resilience we strive to create a supportive and safe environment where individuals can begin their journey to mental well-being. Through evidence-based practices, collaboration, and a holistic approach, our team is committed to helping clients achieve optimal mental health, empowering them to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Minerva Marie Traya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Brownsville, TX 78521
Now accepting NEW clients of all ages. My goal is to provide thorough, compassionate, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive and individualized mental health care in a comfortable atmosphere. Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to a low quality of life. I am passionate and dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. I am available in-person and via telehealth across Texas and Florida. Se habla Español.
Now accepting NEW clients of all ages. My goal is to provide thorough, compassionate, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive and individualized mental health care in a comfortable atmosphere. Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to a low quality of life. I am passionate and dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. I am available in-person and via telehealth across Texas and Florida. Se habla Español.
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Brownsville, TX 78521 (Online Only)
Peter Formusoh, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He is also certified as a family nurse practitioner. Peter provides expert care to patients at Holistic Health and Psychiatry in Mansfield, Texas. Peter obtained his post-master's certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) from Maryville University in St Louis, Missouri. He received his family nurse practitioner (FNP) certification from South University Austin in Round Rock, Texas.
Peter Formusoh, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He is also certified as a family nurse practitioner. Peter provides expert care to patients at Holistic Health and Psychiatry in Mansfield, Texas. Peter obtained his post-master's certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) from Maryville University in St Louis, Missouri. He received his family nurse practitioner (FNP) certification from South University Austin in Round Rock, Texas.
Alexandra Elisabeth Brotzman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brownsville, TX 78521 (Online Only)
Beginning your journey towards healing and personal growth is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding life experiences. I am committed to helping you find your way through the challenges in order to meet your wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner I focus on evidence based practice and holistic treatment to assist my patients in feeling like themselves again. I have been a family nurse practitioner since 2015, and received my post-graduate degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in 2021 in order to fully diagnose and treat the patient population I serve.
Beginning your journey towards healing and personal growth is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding life experiences. I am committed to helping you find your way through the challenges in order to meet your wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner I focus on evidence based practice and holistic treatment to assist my patients in feeling like themselves again. I have been a family nurse practitioner since 2015, and received my post-graduate degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in 2021 in order to fully diagnose and treat the patient population I serve.
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brownsville, TX 78521
Now Accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Jean is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. Visit our website: www.mbspsych.org.
Now Accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Jean is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. Visit our website: www.mbspsych.org.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
Online Psychiatrists
Dr. Chipo Ndlovu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD , NPD-BC, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
Here at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness, we are committed to your mental well-being. We provide comprehensive and person-centered psychiatric mental health services including psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Our mission at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness is to provide behavioral health services to Texans, including immigrant / international populations and underserved populations.
Here at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness, we are committed to your mental well-being. We provide comprehensive and person-centered psychiatric mental health services including psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Our mission at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness is to provide behavioral health services to Texans, including immigrant / international populations and underserved populations.
Deena Velazquez Dong- Psychiatry Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edinburg, TX 78541
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and often at your wits' end? Struggling to be your best self in your career, educational pursuit, or family life (spouse/partner/parent)? Difficulty staying focused, making careless mistakes, racing thoughts, or trouble turning your brain off at night? Finding yourself feeling guilty or ashamed of constantly feeling on edge, irritable, or lashing out at others? Exhausted, unmotivated, sad, and just 'meh' about things? Let's talk about getting you back on track to being your optimal self.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and often at your wits' end? Struggling to be your best self in your career, educational pursuit, or family life (spouse/partner/parent)? Difficulty staying focused, making careless mistakes, racing thoughts, or trouble turning your brain off at night? Finding yourself feeling guilty or ashamed of constantly feeling on edge, irritable, or lashing out at others? Exhausted, unmotivated, sad, and just 'meh' about things? Let's talk about getting you back on track to being your optimal self.
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501 (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.
Integrated Minds Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHMPBC
Verified Verified
Edinburg, TX 78539 (Online Only)
We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care. Our team prides itself in our expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. We take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care. Our team prides itself in our expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. We take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Ugonna Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Mission, TX 78572 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
Beyond the Break Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Laguna Vista, TX 78578 (Online Only)
Life sometimes feels out of control. Overwhelming emotions, discouragement, depression, and anxiety sometimes seem impossible to overcome. Beyond the Break Psychiatric Services is here to partner with you so we can overcome those challenges together.
Life sometimes feels out of control. Overwhelming emotions, discouragement, depression, and anxiety sometimes seem impossible to overcome. Beyond the Break Psychiatric Services is here to partner with you so we can overcome those challenges together.
Hi, Welcome to my profile! I am Dr. Lorena E. Reyna, a double-board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist. My practice offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. I have practiced in various clinical settings, have taken care of patients from all ages, and have experience in treating severe mental illness. My approach is rooted in providing individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient’s unique needs. I strive to understand the intricacies of each patient and their mental health journey.
Hi, Welcome to my profile! I am Dr. Lorena E. Reyna, a double-board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist. My practice offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. I have practiced in various clinical settings, have taken care of patients from all ages, and have experience in treating severe mental illness. My approach is rooted in providing individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient’s unique needs. I strive to understand the intricacies of each patient and their mental health journey.
Dr. Velma Vega-Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Harlingen, TX 78550
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who utilizes theoretical, scientific, and clinical knowledge for diagnosing mental illnesses, interpreting data, and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. I use evidence-based practice using a holistic approach to provide healing, wellness, and recovery through innovative, person-centered, and individualized care. The therapeutic services I offer provide a warm, non-biased, and nurturing environment for individuals and families to achieve optimal mental health. MIND-BODY-SOUL
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who utilizes theoretical, scientific, and clinical knowledge for diagnosing mental illnesses, interpreting data, and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. I use evidence-based practice using a holistic approach to provide healing, wellness, and recovery through innovative, person-centered, and individualized care. The therapeutic services I offer provide a warm, non-biased, and nurturing environment for individuals and families to achieve optimal mental health. MIND-BODY-SOUL
Unique Behavioral Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose and treat patient from age 6-99 years old. At Unique Behavioral Clinic, we prioritize your mental well-being by providing compassionate mental health care in a timely manner so that you can focus on your daily tasks.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose and treat patient from age 6-99 years old. At Unique Behavioral Clinic, we prioritize your mental well-being by providing compassionate mental health care in a timely manner so that you can focus on your daily tasks.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
Novelty Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edinburg, TX 78539
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
Dr. Gerardo Castillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is trained to provide a wide range of mental health services and behavioral services to patients and families in a variety of settings. I can diagnose, conduct psychotherapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders, behavioral issues, medical organic brain disorders, or substance abuse problems. I am licensed to provide psychosocial and physical assessments of mental health patients, establish treatment plans, and manage patient care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is trained to provide a wide range of mental health services and behavioral services to patients and families in a variety of settings. I can diagnose, conduct psychotherapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders, behavioral issues, medical organic brain disorders, or substance abuse problems. I am licensed to provide psychosocial and physical assessments of mental health patients, establish treatment plans, and manage patient care.
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501 (Online Only)
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX
See more therapy options for Brownsville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Brownsville, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Brownsville, TX who prioritize treating:
83% | Depression |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Sleep or Insomnia |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Brownsville, TX see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Brownsville?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.