Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX
Gina Beverly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
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.
Brighter Days Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tri-Crowns Holistic Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79912 (Online Only)
Are you ready for a change? Are you struggling with ADHD, Depression, Eating disorders, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Bipolar disorder, OCD, and LGBTQIA support? I can help you find the way to the healthiest you. My approach to care is to provide compassionate, safe, evidence-based care centered on emotional, mental, and physical stability and well-being through holistic intervention, psychotherapy, or medication management. Let’s embark on this wellness journey together where we can explore self-awareness, emotions, gain new insights, manage stress, build coping skills, and improve self-love. I look forward to working with you.
Are you ready for a change? Are you struggling with ADHD, Depression, Eating disorders, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Bipolar disorder, OCD, and LGBTQIA support? I can help you find the way to the healthiest you. My approach to care is to provide compassionate, safe, evidence-based care centered on emotional, mental, and physical stability and well-being through holistic intervention, psychotherapy, or medication management. Let’s embark on this wellness journey together where we can explore self-awareness, emotions, gain new insights, manage stress, build coping skills, and improve self-love. I look forward to working with you.
Claudia Chaparro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79905 (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
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
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79912 (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.
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79912 (Online Only)
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Ekaete Oyeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79936 (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
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901 (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.
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Hello, my name is Roger Diaz. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been providing services in this role since 2019. I am also currently an Adjunct Professor at the University of Texas at El Paso (for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Master's program).
Hello, my name is Roger Diaz. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been providing services in this role since 2019. I am also currently an Adjunct Professor at the University of Texas at El Paso (for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Master's program).
Borderland Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Jorge, Medina, APRN, FPMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79905
We provide a person first approach and would never judge or demean you. WE are here to provide a person centered and individual approach to your mental health needs with medication management for your school age child through geriatrics. Mental health on your terms. ***NEW Now providing TELE-PSYCH medication management visits from the comfort of your own home from anywhere in the state of Texas, New York, New Mexico. ( must have a camera and audio enable device i.e. laptop, smartphone, PC and an internet connection). *Quicker appointments, no travel costs, reduce stigma. *No CONTROLLED substances can be RX through televisits
We provide a person first approach and would never judge or demean you. WE are here to provide a person centered and individual approach to your mental health needs with medication management for your school age child through geriatrics. Mental health on your terms. ***NEW Now providing TELE-PSYCH medication management visits from the comfort of your own home from anywhere in the state of Texas, New York, New Mexico. ( must have a camera and audio enable device i.e. laptop, smartphone, PC and an internet connection). *Quicker appointments, no travel costs, reduce stigma. *No CONTROLLED substances can be RX through televisits
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.
Patrick Allen Cortado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79912 (Online Only)
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner. I am board-certified in PMHNP (psychiatric mental health) and FNP (family practice). I am also certified in treating ADHD from PESI (ADHD-CCSP) and has finished a Master Psychopharmacology program from NEI.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner. I am board-certified in PMHNP (psychiatric mental health) and FNP (family practice). I am also certified in treating ADHD from PESI (ADHD-CCSP) and has finished a Master Psychopharmacology program from NEI.
Acara Nesbeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79901 (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.
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.
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79901 (Online Only)
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Valmy Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79936 (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.
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79912 (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
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:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
66% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
85% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | 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.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.