Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
Dr. Jackie Michael
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Facing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and ADHD especially during life transitions can feel overwhelming. I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore concerns, heal, and strengthen their emotional well-being. My goal is to help you recognize inner strengths, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Facing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and ADHD especially during life transitions can feel overwhelming. I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore concerns, heal, and strengthen their emotional well-being. My goal is to help you recognize inner strengths, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Progressive Pain & Interventional Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, , FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Dallas, TX 75243
Here at Progressive Pain & Interventional Psychiatry we strive to maintain a supportive atmosphere, & utilize a team approach in your care. We provide medication & interventional management of mood disorders &/or chronic pain. Our care is client centered & tailored to your specific needs. If you struggle with both chronic pain & a mood disorder, it is often difficult to get improvement with either problem, unless your pain & mood disorder are treated together, not the individual conditions separately. We look at all the moving pieces in the puzzle that are holding you back from leading an authentic life with purpose.
Here at Progressive Pain & Interventional Psychiatry we strive to maintain a supportive atmosphere, & utilize a team approach in your care. We provide medication & interventional management of mood disorders &/or chronic pain. Our care is client centered & tailored to your specific needs. If you struggle with both chronic pain & a mood disorder, it is often difficult to get improvement with either problem, unless your pain & mood disorder are treated together, not the individual conditions separately. We look at all the moving pieces in the puzzle that are holding you back from leading an authentic life with purpose.
Javanna Armstrong is a compassionate and experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner who helps adults and seniors in Texas manage their mental health with expert medication management and supportive care. Through her role at LifeStance Health, she works closely with individuals aged 41 and older to address challenges related to anxiety and depression, tailoring treatment to meet each patient’s unique needs and goals. Javanna is especially passionate about helping women improve their mental wellness and regain a sense of emotional balance.
Javanna Armstrong is a compassionate and experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner who helps adults and seniors in Texas manage their mental health with expert medication management and supportive care. Through her role at LifeStance Health, she works closely with individuals aged 41 and older to address challenges related to anxiety and depression, tailoring treatment to meet each patient’s unique needs and goals. Javanna is especially passionate about helping women improve their mental wellness and regain a sense of emotional balance.
ADHD, Anxiety & Depression Medication Management, Telehealth. Accepting Insurance.
At KAIA Mental Health Services, our mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to achieve emotional balance, improved focus, and lasting well-being. We focus on - Compassionate care for emotional balance and focus. - Personalized mental health support for your journey. - Evidence-based treatment, tailored to your goals. - Restoring balance, building resilience, renewing well-being. Please reach out to us to discuss how we can work together on journey to healing!
ADHD, Anxiety & Depression Medication Management, Telehealth. Accepting Insurance.
At KAIA Mental Health Services, our mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to achieve emotional balance, improved focus, and lasting well-being. We focus on - Compassionate care for emotional balance and focus. - Personalized mental health support for your journey. - Evidence-based treatment, tailored to your goals. - Restoring balance, building resilience, renewing well-being. Please reach out to us to discuss how we can work together on journey to healing!
Prime Texas- Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Burnout
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Hi there, I’m Keisha Malone. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD and burnout. My goal is to help you feel in control of your day-to-day life.
I understand how culture, stress, and life experiences impact mental health. For many people, especially those who are used to “pushing through” or carrying a lot for others, mental health concerns are often overlooked until they become overwhelming. You may be functioning on the outside...but internally, you feel exhausted, anxious, or disconnected.
Hi there, I’m Keisha Malone. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD and burnout. My goal is to help you feel in control of your day-to-day life.
I understand how culture, stress, and life experiences impact mental health. For many people, especially those who are used to “pushing through” or carrying a lot for others, mental health concerns are often overlooked until they become overwhelming. You may be functioning on the outside...but internally, you feel exhausted, anxious, or disconnected.
Going through mental health challenges is understandable! Sometimes our limitations or struggles prevent us to determine our identity. You are not alone! I specializes in providing compassionate care as We take a whole person’s approach and consider mind, body, spirit, culture, environment in your care in a non-judgmental manner. We specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions, including treating Generalized Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Grief, Trauma and Behaviors Issues. You need not to confront your challenges in isolation; Let's walk together!
Going through mental health challenges is understandable! Sometimes our limitations or struggles prevent us to determine our identity. You are not alone! I specializes in providing compassionate care as We take a whole person’s approach and consider mind, body, spirit, culture, environment in your care in a non-judgmental manner. We specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions, including treating Generalized Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Grief, Trauma and Behaviors Issues. You need not to confront your challenges in isolation; Let's walk together!
Parents flock to Dr. Miles because, prior to switching to child and adolescent psychiatry (ages 2 and up), she has practiced pediatrics in the first half of her career – and thus provides a much more comprehensive care to their children.
This dual expertise allows her to provide truly comprehensive care—understanding not only the emotional and behavioral challenges young people face, but also the broader health context that shapes their well-being.
Dr. Miles creates a safe, supportive environment where children and teens can express themselves openly begin the process of healing and growth.
Parents flock to Dr. Miles because, prior to switching to child and adolescent psychiatry (ages 2 and up), she has practiced pediatrics in the first half of her career – and thus provides a much more comprehensive care to their children.
This dual expertise allows her to provide truly comprehensive care—understanding not only the emotional and behavioral challenges young people face, but also the broader health context that shapes their well-being.
Dr. Miles creates a safe, supportive environment where children and teens can express themselves openly begin the process of healing and growth.
My name is Ethan Sartor, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who helps adults, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community and those dealing with sleep disorders, OCD, depression, anxiety, and chronic cardiometabolic disease (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol). I work with patients throughout Texas.
My name is Ethan Sartor, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who helps adults, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community and those dealing with sleep disorders, OCD, depression, anxiety, and chronic cardiometabolic disease (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol). I work with patients throughout Texas.
The ideal client is searching for relief and is willing to research or partake in various modalities of treatment. They are open to suggestion, wanting change and have insight. The issues of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and personality disorders are nuanced and take active participation to get to the crux of the issues. This takes patience from both the provider and the patient.
The ideal client is searching for relief and is willing to research or partake in various modalities of treatment. They are open to suggestion, wanting change and have insight. The issues of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and personality disorders are nuanced and take active participation to get to the crux of the issues. This takes patience from both the provider and the patient.
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 .
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Texas. I also have a Master’s degree in Nursing specializing in Leadership and Management. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care that meets each patient exactly where they are in their journey. With over 15 years of nursing experience across critical care, medical-surgical nursing, dialysis, surgery, leadership, and telecritical care,I bring a broad and holistic perspective to mental health treatment.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Texas. I also have a Master’s degree in Nursing specializing in Leadership and Management. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care that meets each patient exactly where they are in their journey. With over 15 years of nursing experience across critical care, medical-surgical nursing, dialysis, surgery, leadership, and telecritical care,I bring a broad and holistic perspective to mental health treatment.
I believe in caring for my patients by focusing on improving their quality of life and helping them grow to their fullest potential through providing them with resources using a holistic approach. During the first appointment, patients can expect us to review your concerns, health history, and treatment goals to help create a personalized plan for your care in a supportive and welcoming environment. I’ve found that every patient's story is different and everyone's reaction will never be the same. So, I never make assumptions, just listen to patients as they want to be seen and heard.
I believe in caring for my patients by focusing on improving their quality of life and helping them grow to their fullest potential through providing them with resources using a holistic approach. During the first appointment, patients can expect us to review your concerns, health history, and treatment goals to help create a personalized plan for your care in a supportive and welcoming environment. I’ve found that every patient's story is different and everyone's reaction will never be the same. So, I never make assumptions, just listen to patients as they want to be seen and heard.
I have a diverse educational and nursing background. I earned my first Bachelors of Science in Physiology degree from Oklahoma State University, and later my Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma City University. I also earned my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I have been inducted into the Golden Key Honors Society as well as Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing. I worked for nearly a decade as a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse in a variety of critical care settings before following my passion into psychiatry and mental health.
I have a diverse educational and nursing background. I earned my first Bachelors of Science in Physiology degree from Oklahoma State University, and later my Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma City University. I also earned my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I have been inducted into the Golden Key Honors Society as well as Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing. I worked for nearly a decade as a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse in a variety of critical care settings before following my passion into psychiatry and mental health.
Se habla español. Ofrezco manejo de medicamentos psiquiátricos por telemedecina. Aceptamos seguros y ofrecemos citas oportunas.
I am a caring and devoted healthcare provider based in Texas. With extensive experience as a psychiatric provider, I am deeply committed to addressing my patients' needs with both skill and empathy. Bilingual in Spanish and English, I strive to ensure every patient feels heard and comforted in my care. My diverse experience has refined my teamwork skills, enabling me to deliver effective and compassionate care in a wide range of healthcare situations.
Se habla español. Ofrezco manejo de medicamentos psiquiátricos por telemedecina. Aceptamos seguros y ofrecemos citas oportunas.
I am a caring and devoted healthcare provider based in Texas. With extensive experience as a psychiatric provider, I am deeply committed to addressing my patients' needs with both skill and empathy. Bilingual in Spanish and English, I strive to ensure every patient feels heard and comforted in my care. My diverse experience has refined my teamwork skills, enabling me to deliver effective and compassionate care in a wide range of healthcare situations.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care that integrates psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, trauma, and multicultural issues. My background includes extensive work with veterans, Native American communities, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, experiences that have shaped my commitment to providing inclusive and culturally sensitive care.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care that integrates psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, trauma, and multicultural issues. My background includes extensive work with veterans, Native American communities, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, experiences that have shaped my commitment to providing inclusive and culturally sensitive care.
Finding mental health support can feel overwhelming; taking the first step to ask for help is an act of courage. My goal is to offer a space where you are heard, respected, and supported as a whole person.
Finding mental health support can feel overwhelming; taking the first step to ask for help is an act of courage. My goal is to offer a space where you are heard, respected, and supported as a whole person.
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of instability, or are you looking for a provider who is truly relentless in supporting your mental health? Whether you are navigating a massive life transition, managing long-standing psychiatric challenges, or exploring new treatment options, you deserve clarity and stability. I’m Anne, a psychiatric provider at Relentless Psychiatry. With extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I take a holistic, client-centered approach to mental health, offering you a safe, judgment-free space to build the empowered life you deserve.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of instability, or are you looking for a provider who is truly relentless in supporting your mental health? Whether you are navigating a massive life transition, managing long-standing psychiatric challenges, or exploring new treatment options, you deserve clarity and stability. I’m Anne, a psychiatric provider at Relentless Psychiatry. With extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I take a holistic, client-centered approach to mental health, offering you a safe, judgment-free space to build the empowered life you deserve.
Healing isn't linear and I understand that deeply, both professionally and personally. As a dual -certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and an attorney, I bring a unique, comprehensive perspective to care. But more than titles, I bring lived experience.
I know grief intimately. The pain I carried afterwards was unexplainable. It didn't fit into a neat diagnosis or timeline. That experience shaped not only how I show up for others but why I do my work.
Healing isn't linear and I understand that deeply, both professionally and personally. As a dual -certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and an attorney, I bring a unique, comprehensive perspective to care. But more than titles, I bring lived experience.
I know grief intimately. The pain I carried afterwards was unexplainable. It didn't fit into a neat diagnosis or timeline. That experience shaped not only how I show up for others but why I do my work.
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:
| 96% | Anxiety |
| 95% | Depression |
| 82% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 74% | ADHD |
| 73% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 95% | Aetna |
| 93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 87% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX see their clients
| 51% | In Person and Online | |
| 49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 76% | Female | |
| 24% | 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.


