Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX

Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(915) 206-5350 View (915) 206-5350
Photo of Dr. Sobia Khurram, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sobia Khurram
Psychiatrist, MD
El Paso, TX 79902
Dr. Khurram brings international experience in medicine in general and psychiatry in particular and has extensive experience working in inpatient psychiatric services as well as with military veterans through the Veterans Administration. Dr. Khurram's motto is "My success is entirely dependent on my patients' success" and that is what motivates her to give 100% to her patients and to her profession. The choice to become a psychiatrist is rooted in her belief that all forms of healing start with being heard. The well­being of the family depends on the well-being of all its members. The whole of the human body is affected even by a
Dr. Khurram brings international experience in medicine in general and psychiatry in particular and has extensive experience working in inpatient psychiatric services as well as with military veterans through the Veterans Administration. Dr. Khurram's motto is "My success is entirely dependent on my patients' success" and that is what motivates her to give 100% to her patients and to her profession. The choice to become a psychiatrist is rooted in her belief that all forms of healing start with being heard. The well­being of the family depends on the well-being of all its members. The whole of the human body is affected even by a
(915) 221-7396 View (915) 221-7396
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
El Paso, TX 79903
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Kenyua Nikia Johnson - Body & Mind Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMNPN-C
Body & Mind Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMNPN-C
El Paso, TX 79936
Kenyua (Ken) Johnson is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. He also served in the Military for 11 years and understands what it means to be a veteran. He provides psychiatric services for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. He believes in carefully choosing a treatment to improve the long-term health of the mind and body. He is an expert on natural and lifestyle techniques that improve overall health. Health Starts in the mind.
Kenyua (Ken) Johnson is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. He also served in the Military for 11 years and understands what it means to be a veteran. He provides psychiatric services for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. He believes in carefully choosing a treatment to improve the long-term health of the mind and body. He is an expert on natural and lifestyle techniques that improve overall health. Health Starts in the mind.
(915) 465-3840 View (915) 465-3840
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
El Paso, TX 79903
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
(915) 995-9721 View (915) 995-9721
Photo of Jocelyn Medina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jocelyn Medina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
El Paso, TX 79925
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges make it even harder to cope. You may feel stuck, misunderstood, or uncertain about the path forward. Perhaps you're navigating major life transitions, relationship struggles, or the lingering weight of past experiences. You want to feel heard, supported, and empowered—guided by someone who understands your background, values, and unique journey. Someone who truly listens and helps you find meaningful, lasting solutions.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges make it even harder to cope. You may feel stuck, misunderstood, or uncertain about the path forward. Perhaps you're navigating major life transitions, relationship struggles, or the lingering weight of past experiences. You want to feel heard, supported, and empowered—guided by someone who understands your background, values, and unique journey. Someone who truly listens and helps you find meaningful, lasting solutions.
(915) 336-8453 View (915) 336-8453
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
(915) 666-2578 View (915) 666-2578
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I’m Nkechi Nduka. I have over 17 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Registered Nurse. My extensive training from The University of Texas at Arlington has equipped me with specialized expertise in psychiatry, particularly with adult patients. I specialize in treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Hello! I’m Nkechi Nduka. I have over 17 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Registered Nurse. My extensive training from The University of Texas at Arlington has equipped me with specialized expertise in psychiatry, particularly with adult patients. I specialize in treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
(915) 285-4018 View (915) 285-4018
Photo of Peter Formusoh - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
El Paso, TX 79936
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS. MULTIPLE OPTIONS ON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE; AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. Mental and emotional difficulties are real and can greatly limit our functioning. At Holistic health and psychiatry, we believe in a multidimensional approach in managing mental health. Our practitioners collaborate to offer therapeutic interventions including medication management and various therapy approaches to assist individuals with mental health difficulties.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS. MULTIPLE OPTIONS ON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE; AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. Mental and emotional difficulties are real and can greatly limit our functioning. At Holistic health and psychiatry, we believe in a multidimensional approach in managing mental health. Our practitioners collaborate to offer therapeutic interventions including medication management and various therapy approaches to assist individuals with mental health difficulties.
(713) 993-7240 View (713) 993-7240
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
El Paso, TX 79901
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.
(915) 223-2541 View (915) 223-2541
Photo of Sarah Casola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Casola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Do you find it hard to get out of bed, have low energy, low motivation, and fatigue? Do you experience feelings of worry that interfere with your daily activities? I specialize in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders. I use evidence-based techniques so that you can overcome the things holding you back. I focus on the psychological, social, and cultural needs of my patients as we work collaboratively to formulate a treatment plan.
Do you find it hard to get out of bed, have low energy, low motivation, and fatigue? Do you experience feelings of worry that interfere with your daily activities? I specialize in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders. I use evidence-based techniques so that you can overcome the things holding you back. I focus on the psychological, social, and cultural needs of my patients as we work collaboratively to formulate a treatment plan.
(915) 285-5720 View (915) 285-5720
Photo of Folasade Akinkuowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Folasade Akinkuowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing comprehensive care for individuals dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I am dedicated to utilizing evidence-based methods to ensure the highest quality of care. I employ nationally recognized assessment tools to deliver accurate diagnoses and develop effective, individualized treatment plans. My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Behavioral Activation.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing comprehensive care for individuals dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I am dedicated to utilizing evidence-based methods to ensure the highest quality of care. I employ nationally recognized assessment tools to deliver accurate diagnoses and develop effective, individualized treatment plans. My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Behavioral Activation.
(915) 900-7394 View (915) 900-7394
Photo of Valmy Fotendong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Valmy Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
(915) 292-7036 View (915) 292-7036
Photo of Gina Beverly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Gina Beverly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79924
My ideal client is experiencing persistent and challenging mental health issues, which may include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. They are seeking a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors within a safe and supportive environment. Through comprehensive psychiatric assessments and medication management, we can work together to address their needs. If medication isn't suitable, I can guide clients to therapy resources or provide information about deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS). The goal is to foster emotional resilience and stability, enhancing their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is experiencing persistent and challenging mental health issues, which may include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. They are seeking a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors within a safe and supportive environment. Through comprehensive psychiatric assessments and medication management, we can work together to address their needs. If medication isn't suitable, I can guide clients to therapy resources or provide information about deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS). The goal is to foster emotional resilience and stability, enhancing their overall quality of life.
(915) 900-4119 View (915) 900-4119
Photo of Tara Arevalo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara Arevalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Tara Arevalo is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She attained her FNP from Duke University and her PMHNP from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She is driven by her love of the healthcare profession, helping people, and with her empathetic nature, she remains steadfast in her abilities and passion. She is also a proud U.S. Army veteran; Tara served during Operation Enduring Freedom before she decided to become a Nurse Practitioner. Tara’s passion for teaching is evident in her practice.
Tara Arevalo is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She attained her FNP from Duke University and her PMHNP from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She is driven by her love of the healthcare profession, helping people, and with her empathetic nature, she remains steadfast in her abilities and passion. She is also a proud U.S. Army veteran; Tara served during Operation Enduring Freedom before she decided to become a Nurse Practitioner. Tara’s passion for teaching is evident in her practice.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Bianca Lopez - Brighter Days Behavioral Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brighter Days Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79936
Now accepting clients throughout all of Texas and New Mexico! English and Spanish Speaking and will get you scheduled within one week! Are you feeling down about yourself, frustrated, overwhelmed or lack the motivation to become the best version of yourself? You are not alone and you deserve a compassionate person as myself to help you get through this stage in your life. It would be my pleasure to help you. I will provide you with the most nonjudgmental care and tailor your treatment plan to your individual needs as I believe we are all unique individuals. If you don't believe me, take a look at my google reviews. I
Now accepting clients throughout all of Texas and New Mexico! English and Spanish Speaking and will get you scheduled within one week! Are you feeling down about yourself, frustrated, overwhelmed or lack the motivation to become the best version of yourself? You are not alone and you deserve a compassionate person as myself to help you get through this stage in your life. It would be my pleasure to help you. I will provide you with the most nonjudgmental care and tailor your treatment plan to your individual needs as I believe we are all unique individuals. If you don't believe me, take a look at my google reviews. I
(915) 233-6200 View (915) 233-6200
Photo of Happiness Nwadike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Happiness Nwadike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
El Paso, TX 79936
My name is Happiness Nwadike. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)- Across Life Span with years of experience in psychiatric evaluations and medication management. My ideal client struggles with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and relief from overwhelming emotions. Their goal is to regain control, improve daily functioning, and enhance their well-being through compassionate and effective psychiatric care. They want evidence-based treatment that respects their unique needs and helps them thrive.
My name is Happiness Nwadike. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)- Across Life Span with years of experience in psychiatric evaluations and medication management. My ideal client struggles with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and relief from overwhelming emotions. Their goal is to regain control, improve daily functioning, and enhance their well-being through compassionate and effective psychiatric care. They want evidence-based treatment that respects their unique needs and helps them thrive.
(915) 666-7348 View (915) 666-7348
Photo of Lori Gonzales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, ACNP-BC, DNP
Lori Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, ACNP-BC, DNP
El Paso, TX 79938
As a doctorate prepared board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Lori completed her doctorate in nursing practice at Walden University and her graduate degrees at both Purdue University and Texas Tech University. Due to being double board certified and working in both Internal medicine and Psychiatry, Lori is well rounded to provide care to a diverse population. She has a large amount of experience in testing and treating psychiatric disorders throughout the lifespan. I like an open communication style where the patient has their choice in the treatment being provided.
As a doctorate prepared board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Lori completed her doctorate in nursing practice at Walden University and her graduate degrees at both Purdue University and Texas Tech University. Due to being double board certified and working in both Internal medicine and Psychiatry, Lori is well rounded to provide care to a diverse population. She has a large amount of experience in testing and treating psychiatric disorders throughout the lifespan. I like an open communication style where the patient has their choice in the treatment being provided.
(915) 237-1842 View (915) 237-1842
Photo of Taiwo Abioye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Taiwo Abioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. When it comes to working with patients, "curiosity" is my guiding principle.
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. When it comes to working with patients, "curiosity" is my guiding principle.
(915) 237-1235 View (915) 237-1235

See more therapy options for El Paso

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
84% Bipolar Disorder
67% ADHD
65% Trauma and PTSD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
87% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in El Paso?

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.