Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX

Haunted by anxiety, depression, ADHD, or PTSD? Imagine waking up without that weight on your chest. I help adults struggling with debilitating mental health challenges transform their daily experience from exhausting to empowering. When trauma, persistent worry, inability to focus, or emotional overwhelm makes every day feel like a battle, you need more than quick fixes—you need lasting solutions. You don't have to face this alone. Together, we'll build practical tools to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain control of your life. My clients don't just survive—they rediscover confidence, clarity, and relief.
Haunted by anxiety, depression, ADHD, or PTSD? Imagine waking up without that weight on your chest. I help adults struggling with debilitating mental health challenges transform their daily experience from exhausting to empowering. When trauma, persistent worry, inability to focus, or emotional overwhelm makes every day feel like a battle, you need more than quick fixes—you need lasting solutions. You don't have to face this alone. Together, we'll build practical tools to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain control of your life. My clients don't just survive—they rediscover confidence, clarity, and relief.

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.

Dr Lynda Parker- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.

ZIks Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
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. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care, focusing on psychiatric assessments, psychotherapy, and medication management. My approach is to work collaboratively with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and promote long-term mental wellness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care, focusing on psychiatric assessments, psychotherapy, and medication management. My approach is to work collaboratively with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and promote long-term mental wellness.

My name is Dr. Brian Forsythe and I believe in a whole-person approach to patient care. It is my belief that therapy, medication, diet, exercise, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person's mental and over-all health. I also offer cutting edge treatments like TMS Therapy and Psychotropic DNA testing. My office, the Dallas Psychiatry and TMS Center, is centrally located in the Mockingbird Station Shops/Park Cities/SMU/Highland Park area and is convenient to downtown Dallas.
My name is Dr. Brian Forsythe and I believe in a whole-person approach to patient care. It is my belief that therapy, medication, diet, exercise, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person's mental and over-all health. I also offer cutting edge treatments like TMS Therapy and Psychotropic DNA testing. My office, the Dallas Psychiatry and TMS Center, is centrally located in the Mockingbird Station Shops/Park Cities/SMU/Highland Park area and is convenient to downtown Dallas.

Kate Okwesa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Kate Okwesa is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a positive patient experience while caring for all her patients. She strives to provide holistic, evidence-based care and holds herself to the highest standard of care, taking into consideration all aspects of her patient's health needs.
Kate Okwesa is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a positive patient experience while caring for all her patients. She strives to provide holistic, evidence-based care and holds herself to the highest standard of care, taking into consideration all aspects of her patient's health needs.

NJ Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
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.

Ellie was born in Kansas City, Missouri but moved to Dallas in 2012. Ellie graduated with her BS in Healthcare Studies from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2018. She continued on and received her Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from LSU Health Shreveport. She enjoyed her psychiatry rotations while in school which fueled her love and deep passion for the mental health field. Ellie enjoys spending time with friends and with her frenchie named "Cash".
Ellie was born in Kansas City, Missouri but moved to Dallas in 2012. Ellie graduated with her BS in Healthcare Studies from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2018. She continued on and received her Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from LSU Health Shreveport. She enjoyed her psychiatry rotations while in school which fueled her love and deep passion for the mental health field. Ellie enjoys spending time with friends and with her frenchie named "Cash".

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 a double board certified Child/Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over a decade of experience in managing both simple and complex child, adolescent, and adult cases in a variety of clincal settings ranging from hospital based to telemedicine. My practice focuses on providing holistic mental health care to the entire family by utilizing nutrition, exercise, therapeutic modalities, and psychiatric medication management to optimize outcomes. I provide easily accessible psychiatric care utilizing a telepsychiatry based platform, and my hours of service provision are tailored to fit comfortably within your family's schedule.
I am a double board certified Child/Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over a decade of experience in managing both simple and complex child, adolescent, and adult cases in a variety of clincal settings ranging from hospital based to telemedicine. My practice focuses on providing holistic mental health care to the entire family by utilizing nutrition, exercise, therapeutic modalities, and psychiatric medication management to optimize outcomes. I provide easily accessible psychiatric care utilizing a telepsychiatry based platform, and my hours of service provision are tailored to fit comfortably within your family's schedule.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders

Dana Ebeling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, MSN, BS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with individuals who seek a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate, personalized care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. My ideal client values collaboration and is ready to partner with me on their journey toward healing and balance. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals, fostering resilience and personal growth.
I work with individuals who seek a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate, personalized care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. My ideal client values collaboration and is ready to partner with me on their journey toward healing and balance. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals, fostering resilience and personal growth.

*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.

Welcome! I'm Martha Motari, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental health board-certified nurse Practitioner. My expertise lies in conducting thorough mental health assessments, identifying your needs, and developing personalized care plans. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, ensuring that you receive the most effective treatments available. I am looking forward to meeting and working with you to enhance your mental health. I specialize in helping people overcome mental health issues. I explore your feelings, understand what’s affecting you, discover coping mechanisms, and provide a treatment plan.
Welcome! I'm Martha Motari, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental health board-certified nurse Practitioner. My expertise lies in conducting thorough mental health assessments, identifying your needs, and developing personalized care plans. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, ensuring that you receive the most effective treatments available. I am looking forward to meeting and working with you to enhance your mental health. I specialize in helping people overcome mental health issues. I explore your feelings, understand what’s affecting you, discover coping mechanisms, and provide a treatment plan.

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.

Dr. Kristin P Solimani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Dealing with mental illness and addiction can be extremely difficult and even more challenging finding consistent mental health care. When it comes to treating mental illness and addiction, there is no one size fits all treatment method. With that in mind, City Psychiatry seeks to personalize treatment to the patient’s mental and physical health needs. At City Psychiatry we understand a comprehensive diagnosis and flexible treatment plan are important to successful recovery
Dealing with mental illness and addiction can be extremely difficult and even more challenging finding consistent mental health care. When it comes to treating mental illness and addiction, there is no one size fits all treatment method. With that in mind, City Psychiatry seeks to personalize treatment to the patient’s mental and physical health needs. At City Psychiatry we understand a comprehensive diagnosis and flexible treatment plan are important to successful recovery

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.

Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.

I am an integrative, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in treating the whole person - mind, body and spirit. I utilize all healing modalities including nutritional supplements (nootropics/nutraceuticals), mind-body medicine, herbal and plant-based medicines with Western psychiatric approaches such as prescription medication and solution-focused/CBT therapy. I specialize in anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, depression and bipolar spectrum disorders.
I am an integrative, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in treating the whole person - mind, body and spirit. I utilize all healing modalities including nutritional supplements (nootropics/nutraceuticals), mind-body medicine, herbal and plant-based medicines with Western psychiatric approaches such as prescription medication and solution-focused/CBT therapy. I specialize in anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, depression and bipolar spectrum disorders.
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 |
92% | 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.