Psychiatrists in Del Valle, TX

Photo of Cynthia Benton, MD, Psychiatrist
Cynthia Benton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Valle, TX 78617
Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.
Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.
(512) 843-7026 View (512) 843-7026
Photo of Richard Sambrook, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Sambrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Del Valle, TX 78617
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
(737) 315-3888 View (737) 315-3888

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78744  (Online Only)
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
(737) 252-7060 View (737) 252-7060
Photo of Dr. Sandra Dunkin, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sandra Dunkin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78721
Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.
Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.
(737) 206-8671 View (737) 206-8671
Photo of Munira Jiwani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78744  (Online Only)
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
(512) 881-8788 View (512) 881-8788
Photo of Bridgett Gant, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78741  (Online Only)
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
(737) 278-7267 View (737) 278-7267
Photo of Elizabeth Gomez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 73344  (Online Only)
Dealing with mental health can be tricky, but it’s not something you have to face alone. In my practice, we tackle these issues head-on with a mix of medication management and self-care strategies. It’s all about finding what works best for you, so you can focus more on enjoying life and less on the stress these conditions can bring. We’ll work together in a relaxed, supportive setting to discover effective ways to manage symptoms and boost your well-being. Let’s navigate this journey together, towards a life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.
Dealing with mental health can be tricky, but it’s not something you have to face alone. In my practice, we tackle these issues head-on with a mix of medication management and self-care strategies. It’s all about finding what works best for you, so you can focus more on enjoying life and less on the stress these conditions can bring. We’ll work together in a relaxed, supportive setting to discover effective ways to manage symptoms and boost your well-being. Let’s navigate this journey together, towards a life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.
(512) 601-8923 View (512) 601-8923
Photo of Zaw Win, MD, Psychiatrist
Zaw Win
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702
Zaw Win, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Win was elected by the Membership Committee and the Board of Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association to be a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA) in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. Dr. Win completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1998.
Zaw Win, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Win was elected by the Membership Committee and the Board of Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association to be a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA) in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. Dr. Win completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1998.
(512) 882-2072 View (512) 882-2072
Photo of Rachal Katerle, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Rachal Katerle
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702
Rachal is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated with her MPAS from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2023 and began pursuing her passion of supporting mental health through psychiatry. Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses. She provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy in collaboration with Dr. Khan.
Rachal is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated with her MPAS from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2023 and began pursuing her passion of supporting mental health through psychiatry. Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses. She provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy in collaboration with Dr. Khan.
(512) 722-7976 View (512) 722-7976
Photo of Elena Cosenza, MSN, AGCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Cosenza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGCNS, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78702  (Online Only)
Elena Cosenza is a highly skilled advanced practice provider specializing in psychiatry and mental health. As a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS-BC), she delivers exceptional care, encompassing medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy for individuals aged 18 and above. Elena holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell Molecular and Genetic Biology with a Psychology minor from Boston University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Austin.
Elena Cosenza is a highly skilled advanced practice provider specializing in psychiatry and mental health. As a board-certified Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS-BC), she delivers exceptional care, encompassing medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy for individuals aged 18 and above. Elena holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell Molecular and Genetic Biology with a Psychology minor from Boston University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Austin.
(737) 302-4556 View (737) 302-4556
Photo of Ivan Srdanovic, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ivan Srdanovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702
Ivan Srdanovic is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who encompasses the biopsychosocial model in treating mental health disorders. Ivan believes that each person has a unique history, and considering all aspects of a person’s life is the most effective way of creating a personalized treatment plan for them. Ivan has experience in outpatient psychiatry treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, thought disorders, adjustment disorders, and personality disorders.
Ivan Srdanovic is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who encompasses the biopsychosocial model in treating mental health disorders. Ivan believes that each person has a unique history, and considering all aspects of a person’s life is the most effective way of creating a personalized treatment plan for them. Ivan has experience in outpatient psychiatry treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, thought disorders, adjustment disorders, and personality disorders.
(512) 866-0641 View (512) 866-0641
Photo of Shelly Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shelly Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78741  (Online Only)
Shelly Thomas is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner adept in treating clients with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health problems. As a compassionate individual and experienced clinician, Shelly Thomas, brings a holistic care philosophy to every interaction with clients. He is friendly and easy to approach with questions. He support clients with no insurance with initial self pay visit fee of $200 and follow up visit fee of $75 for medication management.
Shelly Thomas is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner adept in treating clients with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health problems. As a compassionate individual and experienced clinician, Shelly Thomas, brings a holistic care philosophy to every interaction with clients. He is friendly and easy to approach with questions. He support clients with no insurance with initial self pay visit fee of $200 and follow up visit fee of $75 for medication management.
(682) 310-6056 View (682) 310-6056
Photo of Nnamdi Ofoeze, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nnamdi Ofoeze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745  (Online Only)
My name is Nnamdi, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my purpose is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a focus on holistic wellness, I aim to empower my patients to achieve their optimal mental health through therapeutic interventions, medication management, and collaborative treatment planning.
My name is Nnamdi, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my purpose is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a focus on holistic wellness, I aim to empower my patients to achieve their optimal mental health through therapeutic interventions, medication management, and collaborative treatment planning.
(737) 227-8147 View (737) 227-8147
Photo of Dana Ebeling, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN, BS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Ebeling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78744  (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.
(737) 510-7639 View (737) 510-7639
Photo of Martha Akinbile, PMHNP, BC, FNP, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martha Akinbile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP, C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78714
Appointments are available within 24-48 hours. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply not yourself? Do you need someone to talk to, who can understand and guide you through these challenging times? Look no further. Our team believes in a holistic approach to address your struggles with insomnia, anxiety, addiction, inattention, low mood/energy, and stress. We are committed to helping you regain control of your life and achieve your mental health goals.
Appointments are available within 24-48 hours. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply not yourself? Do you need someone to talk to, who can understand and guide you through these challenging times? Look no further. Our team believes in a holistic approach to address your struggles with insomnia, anxiety, addiction, inattention, low mood/energy, and stress. We are committed to helping you regain control of your life and achieve your mental health goals.
(713) 766-4654 View (713) 766-4654
Photo of Lovette Okoh, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lovette Okoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78785  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(325) 237-2759 View (325) 237-2759
Photo of Catherine Larson, MD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Larson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78747
I am Board Certified in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my residency and fellowship training here in Austin, Texas at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. I work with children, adolescents and young adults (age 4-40) using both psychotherapy and medications. I have special interest in Anxiety Disorders but I have experience working with a wide range of diagnoses. For more information about my practice, including fees, schedule etc. please visit my website. I am not currently accepting any insurance plans.
I am Board Certified in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my residency and fellowship training here in Austin, Texas at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. I work with children, adolescents and young adults (age 4-40) using both psychotherapy and medications. I have special interest in Anxiety Disorders but I have experience working with a wide range of diagnoses. For more information about my practice, including fees, schedule etc. please visit my website. I am not currently accepting any insurance plans.
(512) 270-3592 View (512) 270-3592
Photo of Arif Noorbaksh, MD, Psychiatrist
Arif Noorbaksh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78744  (Online Only)
It takes many people nearly a decade to get the help they need for a mental health concern. That's too much time. You deserve to work with a provider that listens to understand, dedicates ample time to hear all of your concerns, has expertise in your specific mental health concerns, and takes a collaborative approach with you to build a treatment plan with the right selection of medication, therapy, and lifestyle change that truly for your body & mind.
It takes many people nearly a decade to get the help they need for a mental health concern. That's too much time. You deserve to work with a provider that listens to understand, dedicates ample time to hear all of your concerns, has expertise in your specific mental health concerns, and takes a collaborative approach with you to build a treatment plan with the right selection of medication, therapy, and lifestyle change that truly for your body & mind.
(737) 250-9114 View (737) 250-9114
Photo of Mirella Huie, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mirella Huie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78741
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy through a holistic approach. I understand that no two people have the same background and needs, so I aim to empower individuals by collaborating with my clients to design tailored approaches to treatments. In addition to medication management, I take into account all components that promote mental health including physical exercise, dietary choices, and environmental factors.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy through a holistic approach. I understand that no two people have the same background and needs, so I aim to empower individuals by collaborating with my clients to design tailored approaches to treatments. In addition to medication management, I take into account all components that promote mental health including physical exercise, dietary choices, and environmental factors.
(512) 559-8875 View (512) 559-8875
Photo of Leonard Weiss, MD, Psychiatrist
Leonard Weiss
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78747
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Weiss believes in meeting people where they are and custom-tailoring a plan to meet their specific concerns. He works with each individual and their family members as well as other medical treatment providers to create a plan that meets their needs. For some, this may include medication management whereas others require psychotherapy and finally certain patients may do best with both.
Dr. Weiss believes in meeting people where they are and custom-tailoring a plan to meet their specific concerns. He works with each individual and their family members as well as other medical treatment providers to create a plan that meets their needs. For some, this may include medication management whereas others require psychotherapy and finally certain patients may do best with both.
(512) 872-5591 View (512) 872-5591

See more therapy options for Del Valle

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Del Valle, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Del Valle, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Divorce
100% Autism

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Del Valle, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Del Valle?

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.