Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX

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Photo of Cynthia Ofeinmun - Brooks psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brooks psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
At Brooks Psychiatry PLLC, we provide mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. Our ideal client is an individual struggling with conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Trauma, schizpprenia, etc. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck or frustrated with the past treatment that didn't work, and they seek personalised care that addresses their unique needs. They want a compassionate provider who listens, offers flexible telehealth options, and helps them regain control of their lives. They aim to stabilize mood, reduce stress, and improve relationships and daily functioning with the right support and treatment.
At Brooks Psychiatry PLLC, we provide mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. Our ideal client is an individual struggling with conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Trauma, schizpprenia, etc. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck or frustrated with the past treatment that didn't work, and they seek personalised care that addresses their unique needs. They want a compassionate provider who listens, offers flexible telehealth options, and helps them regain control of their lives. They aim to stabilize mood, reduce stress, and improve relationships and daily functioning with the right support and treatment.
(469) 966-4607 View (469) 966-4607
Photo of Jahi Anderson, Psychiatrist
Jahi Anderson
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Hello, I am Dr. Anderson from Anderson Psychiatric Services in Texas. My goal is to help you achieve "Health and Happiness." Whether you are facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adult ADHD, PTSD, or thought disorders, we can work together to regain control over your life and embark on a journey toward mental well-being—all from the comfort of your own home. I understand that each individual is unique, so I will work closely with you to create personalized treatment plans that combine medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and other holistic practices to help you become the best version of yourself.
Hello, I am Dr. Anderson from Anderson Psychiatric Services in Texas. My goal is to help you achieve "Health and Happiness." Whether you are facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adult ADHD, PTSD, or thought disorders, we can work together to regain control over your life and embark on a journey toward mental well-being—all from the comfort of your own home. I understand that each individual is unique, so I will work closely with you to create personalized treatment plans that combine medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and other holistic practices to help you become the best version of yourself.
(214) 617-1546 View (214) 617-1546
Photo of Magdalene Osunde, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP, PMHNP
Magdalene Osunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients: Ages 7 Through Geriatrics. Medicare, Medicaid, BCBS, United Health, And Many More. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. I perform initial Psychiatric evaluations, Diagnosis, treatment with ongoing medication management for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use, ADHD, mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and many more not listed here. I also precept Psych Nurse Practitioner Students.
Accepting New Patients: Ages 7 Through Geriatrics. Medicare, Medicaid, BCBS, United Health, And Many More. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. I perform initial Psychiatric evaluations, Diagnosis, treatment with ongoing medication management for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use, ADHD, mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and many more not listed here. I also precept Psych Nurse Practitioner Students.
(972) 293-9795 View (972) 293-9795
Photo of Lindsey Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(806) 553-4745 View (806) 553-4745
Photo of Mohammed Abubakar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mohammed Abubakar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Mohammed Abubakar, a licensed APRN and board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. My practice centers on helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues by fostering resilience and promoting self-awareness. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where we work together to understand your unique experiences and develop effective coping strategies.
Hello! My name is Mohammed Abubakar, a licensed APRN and board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. My practice centers on helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues by fostering resilience and promoting self-awareness. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where we work together to understand your unique experiences and develop effective coping strategies.
(832) 979-6250 View (832) 979-6250
Photo of Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
(469) 871-5046 View (469) 871-5046
Photo of Kristen Dale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kristen Dale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
(469) 731-8873 View (469) 731-8873
Photo of Meera Shah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Meera Shah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dallas, TX 75251
I work with adults who may be dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. My clients want to better understand their symptoms, find treatments that work for them, and regain a sense of stability and well-being. They’re looking for straightforward guidance and personalized support that fits their needs.
I work with adults who may be dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. My clients want to better understand their symptoms, find treatments that work for them, and regain a sense of stability and well-being. They’re looking for straightforward guidance and personalized support that fits their needs.
(469) 537-4294 View (469) 537-4294
Photo of Alyxandra Bui, Psychiatrist, DO
Alyxandra Bui
Psychiatrist, DO
Richardson, TX 75080
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
(469) 956-6365 View (469) 956-6365
Photo of Dr. Jarrod Tunnell, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jarrod Tunnell
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75240
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
(214) 935-3992 View (214) 935-3992
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(817) 631-4090 View (817) 631-4090
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
(469) 454-1072 View (469) 454-1072
Photo of Alisha Fluker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C
Alisha Fluker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C
5 Endorsed
Online Only
You don’t have to keep normalizing low moods or daily anxiety. I’m a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in women’s mental health, including anxiety, depression, and premenstrual mood symptoms. I work with many high-functioning women who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or burnt out, despite appearing like they have it all together. I also support women struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety, which can show up as intrusive thoughts, guilt, or constantly checking on the baby. As a certified perinatal mental health professional, I understand the unique challenges women face during these times.
You don’t have to keep normalizing low moods or daily anxiety. I’m a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in women’s mental health, including anxiety, depression, and premenstrual mood symptoms. I work with many high-functioning women who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or burnt out, despite appearing like they have it all together. I also support women struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety, which can show up as intrusive thoughts, guilt, or constantly checking on the baby. As a certified perinatal mental health professional, I understand the unique challenges women face during these times.
(469) 837-8361 View (469) 837-8361
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Coppell, TX 75019
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.
(214) 865-7127 View (214) 865-7127
Photo of Dr. Hatem Nour - Hatem Nour, MD PA, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Hatem Nour, MD PA
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Online Only
As a psychiatrist, my approach to treatment is rooted in a holistic philosophy that considers the intricate connection between mind, body, and environment. I believe that effective mental health care goes beyond symptom management and requires a deep understanding of each patient’s unique life circumstances, including their social, cultural, and environmental influences. While medication can play a vital role in stabilizing and improving mental health, it should always be prescribed with careful consideration of the broader context in which a patient lives.
As a psychiatrist, my approach to treatment is rooted in a holistic philosophy that considers the intricate connection between mind, body, and environment. I believe that effective mental health care goes beyond symptom management and requires a deep understanding of each patient’s unique life circumstances, including their social, cultural, and environmental influences. While medication can play a vital role in stabilizing and improving mental health, it should always be prescribed with careful consideration of the broader context in which a patient lives.
(737) 257-6934 View (737) 257-6934
Photo of Dr. Laura Beard, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Laura Beard
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75231
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.
(214) 691-9090 View (214) 691-9090
Photo of Lesli Archibald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Lesli Archibald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and specialize in tele-health psychiatry care for adolescents and adults. I can treat clients 13 and up anywhere in Texas. My practice is rooted in patient-centered and trauma-focused care, ensuring a compassionate and personalized approach to mental health. Medication is sometimes needed, but I will never use medication alone. All parts of our brain and mind function on survival and adaptation, which can lead to a variety of mental health issues. Wondering what type of specialist to see? A PMHNP can diagnose, prescribe and provide therapy.
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and specialize in tele-health psychiatry care for adolescents and adults. I can treat clients 13 and up anywhere in Texas. My practice is rooted in patient-centered and trauma-focused care, ensuring a compassionate and personalized approach to mental health. Medication is sometimes needed, but I will never use medication alone. All parts of our brain and mind function on survival and adaptation, which can lead to a variety of mental health issues. Wondering what type of specialist to see? A PMHNP can diagnose, prescribe and provide therapy.
(469) 717-6394 View (469) 717-6394
Photo of Racheal Onodu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Racheal Onodu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(346) 523-1788 View (346) 523-1788
Photo of Eric E. Shellhorn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, MSN
Eric E. Shellhorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, MSN
Online Only
IntelliPsych, PLLC was founded in 2025 by a psychiatric NP who spent 25+ years working in the public mental health outpatient clinic settings, observing what works, and what doesn't, in the provision of collaborative care. To Foster Wellbeing, Instill Hope, and Heal Collaboratively, we must also work to reduce barriers to accessing mental healthcare services. Our services & approaches are fundamentally different. Levering technology, flexible scheduling options, ACT therapy concepts, community resources, mindfulness. We create meaningful patient treatment plans that are trauma-sensitive, humanistic and individualized.
IntelliPsych, PLLC was founded in 2025 by a psychiatric NP who spent 25+ years working in the public mental health outpatient clinic settings, observing what works, and what doesn't, in the provision of collaborative care. To Foster Wellbeing, Instill Hope, and Heal Collaboratively, we must also work to reduce barriers to accessing mental healthcare services. Our services & approaches are fundamentally different. Levering technology, flexible scheduling options, ACT therapy concepts, community resources, mindfulness. We create meaningful patient treatment plans that are trauma-sensitive, humanistic and individualized.
(214) 833-6573 View (214) 833-6573
Photo of Francisca Ogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Francisca Ogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience in delivering excellent nursing care. I treat patients with various mental health disorders such as Depression, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, Schizophrenia, etc.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience in delivering excellent nursing care. I treat patients with various mental health disorders such as Depression, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, Schizophrenia, etc.
(817) 587-0750 View (817) 587-0750

See more therapy options for Dallas County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX

800+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD
69% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
91% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.