Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX

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.

Maame Obiri-Boateng, PMHNP-BC places a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment in which you can work toward developing and strengthening mental health and maintenance. She serves the public by preventing, identifying, and treating psychiatric conditions. She enjoys assisting and providing care through telehealth and in-person visits in an integrated practice, building and fortifying care accessible to you. Sessions are personalized, targeted, and integrative. She has a wide range of experience in treating various mental illnesses including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD.
Maame Obiri-Boateng, PMHNP-BC places a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment in which you can work toward developing and strengthening mental health and maintenance. She serves the public by preventing, identifying, and treating psychiatric conditions. She enjoys assisting and providing care through telehealth and in-person visits in an integrated practice, building and fortifying care accessible to you. Sessions are personalized, targeted, and integrative. She has a wide range of experience in treating various mental illnesses including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD.

Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.

Gloria Nwagbara, PMHNP-BC, MSN, DNP Welcome to my telehealth practice! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health NP with over three years of experience. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children aged 7+, adolescents, adults, and older adults. My services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. Access care from the comfort of your home with flexible scheduling. Let's work together to achieve your mental health goals. Contact me today!
Gloria Nwagbara, PMHNP-BC, MSN, DNP Welcome to my telehealth practice! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health NP with over three years of experience. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children aged 7+, adolescents, adults, and older adults. My services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. Access care from the comfort of your home with flexible scheduling. Let's work together to achieve your mental health goals. Contact me today!

Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.

My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared PMHNP with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult. I utilize evidence-based practice and patient preference to give my patients the best care possible. At every visit, I will provide individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals. Our initial appointment comprises getting a comprehensive history from you, evaluating your current stressors, and discussing treatment options based on your goals of treatment.
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared PMHNP with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult. I utilize evidence-based practice and patient preference to give my patients the best care possible. At every visit, I will provide individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals. Our initial appointment comprises getting a comprehensive history from you, evaluating your current stressors, and discussing treatment options based on your goals of treatment.

Your psychiatric care should do more than alleviate your symptoms. It should guide you toward a greater level of clarity and peace of mind than you had previously experienced. I offer comprehensive care in both psychotherapy and medication management, according to your needs and preferences. I will engage with you at your own pace, whether you are seeking direct answers to specific questions or a healing space for an in depth exploration of your personal history and emotions, or both. I have the experience and expertise to empower you to reach your goals.
Your psychiatric care should do more than alleviate your symptoms. It should guide you toward a greater level of clarity and peace of mind than you had previously experienced. I offer comprehensive care in both psychotherapy and medication management, according to your needs and preferences. I will engage with you at your own pace, whether you are seeking direct answers to specific questions or a healing space for an in depth exploration of your personal history and emotions, or both. I have the experience and expertise to empower you to reach your goals.

I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.

Hi there, I'm Jelilat. Are you struggling with Depression , anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, Addictions, ADHD and other life changing challenges the world throws at you? Do you feel like the world is crumbling down on you, and you don't know what else to do? Look no further. I am here to give you listening ears . Let's tackle these problems together. You don't have to journey alone .
Hi there, I'm Jelilat. Are you struggling with Depression , anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, Addictions, ADHD and other life changing challenges the world throws at you? Do you feel like the world is crumbling down on you, and you don't know what else to do? Look no further. I am here to give you listening ears . Let's tackle these problems together. You don't have to journey alone .

Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.
Ever since I was a nursing student, I’ve been captivated by the power of genuine connection in mental health care. Over the past 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in everything from critical care to research on disorders like schizophrenia and depression—all to better serve each person I meet. By truly listening, I tailor treatment to the individual rather than just the diagnosis. My style is both empathetic and straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect as we work together. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and hopeful about your next steps.

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

Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.

Good4u Family Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75211
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety and depression. I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach to treatment that integrates both medication management and therapeutic support.
I understand that anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming and isolating. My goal is to empower my clients by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to create personalized strategies for healing and growth.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety and depression. I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach to treatment that integrates both medication management and therapeutic support.
I understand that anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming and isolating. My goal is to empower my clients by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to create personalized strategies for healing and growth.

Integrated Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.

Jelilat Omowumi Buhari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.

I am Racheal Onodu, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the treatment of mental disorders. You are welcome on board. If you a suffering from depression, an overwhelming sense of worrying, difficulty sleeping, and lack of focus, then you are in the right place as I treat a wide range of mental health illnesses with the integration of behavioral therapies and pharmacological treatment to achieve the best outcome for your optimal health.
I am Racheal Onodu, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the treatment of mental disorders. You are welcome on board. If you a suffering from depression, an overwhelming sense of worrying, difficulty sleeping, and lack of focus, then you are in the right place as I treat a wide range of mental health illnesses with the integration of behavioral therapies and pharmacological treatment to achieve the best outcome for your optimal health.

Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry of Dallas - We Are Open!
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Dallas, our priority is patient care and comfort-driven by a personalized treatment plan.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Dallas, our priority is patient care and comfort-driven by a personalized treatment plan.

Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75228
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.

I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
Cemetrice is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in treating patients from ages 5-65 and over. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University and has over 6 years of experience in the psychiatric field, with past experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Cemetrice currently has inpatient hospital privileges in three hospitals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She is currently accepting new patients from ages 5 to 65.
Cemetrice is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in treating patients from ages 5-65 and over. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University and has over 6 years of experience in the psychiatric field, with past experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Cemetrice currently has inpatient hospital privileges in three hospitals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She is currently accepting new patients from ages 5 to 65.
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
500+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX see their clients
58% | Online Only | |
42% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas?
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.