Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX

Photo of Tolulope Shada - The Hills Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
The Hills Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79936
My name is Tolulope Shada. I am a compassionate psychiatrist, who listens to the specific needs of the people I serve in order to provide suitable, individualized, evidence based treatment for their care. Wide varieties of mental health conditions are treated. Medicare, Medicaid & commercial insurances are accepted. Self-pay are also welcomed. Both in-person and virtual visits are available. Reach out today, help is here!
My name is Tolulope Shada. I am a compassionate psychiatrist, who listens to the specific needs of the people I serve in order to provide suitable, individualized, evidence based treatment for their care. Wide varieties of mental health conditions are treated. Medicare, Medicaid & commercial insurances are accepted. Self-pay are also welcomed. Both in-person and virtual visits are available. Reach out today, help is here!
(915) 284-6901 View (915) 284-6901
Photo of Acara Nesbeth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Acara Nesbeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified mental health nurse practitioner who is adept at providing care that is focused on the patient’s needs. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating adults, and geriatric clients with various mental health conditions. These conditions include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizoaffective disorders. As a devoted mental health nurse practitioner, I always ensure that I deliver expert, personalized care to each client in a nurturing environment; an environment where trust, mutual respect, and transparency are also key.
I am a Board-Certified mental health nurse practitioner who is adept at providing care that is focused on the patient’s needs. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating adults, and geriatric clients with various mental health conditions. These conditions include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizoaffective disorders. As a devoted mental health nurse practitioner, I always ensure that I deliver expert, personalized care to each client in a nurturing environment; an environment where trust, mutual respect, and transparency are also key.
(915) 268-1567 View (915) 268-1567
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
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 Valmy Fotendong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valmy Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Claudia Chaparro, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Claudia Chaparro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel sad, anxious or isolated from the world around you? Let your dedicated Mental Health Specialist help restore you to your highest level of effective functioning. Nurse Practitioner Chaparro is Board Certified in Psychiatry, Experienced, Reliable and Bilingual
Do you feel sad, anxious or isolated from the world around you? Let your dedicated Mental Health Specialist help restore you to your highest level of effective functioning. Nurse Practitioner Chaparro is Board Certified in Psychiatry, Experienced, Reliable and Bilingual
(915) 600-6957 View (915) 600-6957
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Bridget N Shu - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX.
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX.
(915) 348-5905 View (915) 348-5905
Photo of Rebecca Harrell- Katie's Way Plus, MPA, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Rebecca Harrell- Katie's Way Plus
Physician Assistant, MPA, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79924
My ideal client is someone facing persistent and complex psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders seeking comprehensive mental health care. They seek clarity, stability, and a compassionate space where they can address their emotional and psychological needs. They may need help with comprehensive assessments, medication management, or advanced therapies like deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS). Their goal is to regain control of their mental well-being, reduce symptoms, gain long-term stability, and enhance daily functioning in their lives.
My ideal client is someone facing persistent and complex psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders seeking comprehensive mental health care. They seek clarity, stability, and a compassionate space where they can address their emotional and psychological needs. They may need help with comprehensive assessments, medication management, or advanced therapies like deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS). Their goal is to regain control of their mental well-being, reduce symptoms, gain long-term stability, and enhance daily functioning in their lives.
(915) 666-9135 View (915) 666-9135
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.
(915) 666-9052 View (915) 666-9052
Photo of Samantha Hernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79905
I believe in providing compassionate care, suffering from a mental illness can be difficult enough, I will be here to provide understanding and compassionate care in order to provide the absolute excellent patient care.
I believe in providing compassionate care, suffering from a mental illness can be difficult enough, I will be here to provide understanding and compassionate care in order to provide the absolute excellent patient care.
(915) 666-8181 View (915) 666-8181
Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
(915) 233-6788 View (915) 233-6788
Photo of Kimberly Justice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Justice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a current board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force combat veteran. My experience in emergency and behavioral health nursing, coupled with my military service, allows me to have a unique understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by many individuals. While my focus spans across many disorders, I specialize in medication management and short-term therapy for anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
I am a current board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force combat veteran. My experience in emergency and behavioral health nursing, coupled with my military service, allows me to have a unique understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by many individuals. While my focus spans across many disorders, I specialize in medication management and short-term therapy for anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
(915) 995-5612 View (915) 995-5612
Photo of Adriana Y Mendoza - Thriving Minds of El Paso, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thriving Minds of El Paso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79924
Adriana places great emphasis on person-centered care. She understands that each individual is unique, with their own set of strengths, goals, and values. By actively listening to her clients and involving them in their treatment plans, she empowers them to take an active role in their own healing process. Together, Adriana and her clients collaborate to develop tailored interventions that address their specific needs and promote positive change.
Adriana places great emphasis on person-centered care. She understands that each individual is unique, with their own set of strengths, goals, and values. By actively listening to her clients and involving them in their treatment plans, she empowers them to take an active role in their own healing process. Together, Adriana and her clients collaborate to develop tailored interventions that address their specific needs and promote positive change.
(915) 666-2329 View (915) 666-2329
Photo of Folasade Akinkuowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Folasade Akinkuowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
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 Ivonne Espinosa - Samsara Healthcare , DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samsara Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79905
I believe every person is an individual with unique needs. In mental health there is no one-size-fits-all. Mental health should be affordable and client centered. Samsara is a practice where everyone is welcome and expect to be treated with dignity and respect. Please visit our website at samsarahealth915.org and give us a call to set up an appointment.
I believe every person is an individual with unique needs. In mental health there is no one-size-fits-all. Mental health should be affordable and client centered. Samsara is a practice where everyone is welcome and expect to be treated with dignity and respect. Please visit our website at samsarahealth915.org and give us a call to set up an appointment.
(915) 221-1837 View (915) 221-1837
Photo of Sarah Casola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Casola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
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 Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Ekaete Oyeka, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ekaete Oyeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Eka. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, school, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or others? I believe in each client's uniqueness and ensure a holistic treatment based on individual needs. I specialize in treating psychiatric disorders, including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I am very passionate about contributing to the improvement of the community's health by utilizing an evidence-based approach to mental health care
Hi there, I'm Eka. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, school, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or others? I believe in each client's uniqueness and ensure a holistic treatment based on individual needs. I specialize in treating psychiatric disorders, including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I am very passionate about contributing to the improvement of the community's health by utilizing an evidence-based approach to mental health care
(737) 316-3763 View (737) 316-3763
Photo of Peter Formusoh - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
View
1

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:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
85% Bipolar Disorder
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% ADHD
61% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% 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.