Psychiatrists in El Paso, TX

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Are you struggling with constant worry, low mood, or trouble focusing?
Anxiety, depression, mood swings, and insomnia can make daily life feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing sleepless nights, low motivation, persistent sadness, difficulty concentrating, or feeling on edge, these symptoms can impact your ability to stay productive, maintain relationships, and feel like yourself.
You don’t have to keep feeling stuck, exhausted, or frustrated. The right treatment can help you reclaim your peace of mind and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Schedule a 60-minute virtual intake today
Are you struggling with constant worry, low mood, or trouble focusing?
Anxiety, depression, mood swings, and insomnia can make daily life feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing sleepless nights, low motivation, persistent sadness, difficulty concentrating, or feeling on edge, these symptoms can impact your ability to stay productive, maintain relationships, and feel like yourself.
You don’t have to keep feeling stuck, exhausted, or frustrated. The right treatment can help you reclaim your peace of mind and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Schedule a 60-minute virtual intake today

I work with children and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. My clients want to understand their mental health, find balance, and develop healthy coping skills that support overall wellness. They’re looking for guidance that respects their unique experiences and culture.
I work with children and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. My clients want to understand their mental health, find balance, and develop healthy coping skills that support overall wellness. They’re looking for guidance that respects their unique experiences and culture.

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.

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

Feeling overwhelmed by racing thoughts, constant worry, or persistent sadness? These symptoms, along with low motivation and lack of focus, can make it hard to keep up with daily responsibilities at home, school, or work. They may be signs of anxiety or depression, two of the most common yet treatable mental health conditions. The right medication can make all the difference, helping you feel more like yourself and move toward your goals without constantly falling behind or feeling defeated.
Feeling overwhelmed by racing thoughts, constant worry, or persistent sadness? These symptoms, along with low motivation and lack of focus, can make it hard to keep up with daily responsibilities at home, school, or work. They may be signs of anxiety or depression, two of the most common yet treatable mental health conditions. The right medication can make all the difference, helping you feel more like yourself and move toward your goals without constantly falling behind or feeling defeated.

Ready to become the optimal version of yourself? Call or text today: (915) 209-5289.
We believe that every individual possesses the strength and capacity for growth, healing, and transformation. We utilize holistic and integrative care, centered on helping clients with substance use disorder, ADHD, stress related disorders, Depression, Anxiety, mood disorders, compassion fatigue, and PTSD.
Together we will discover and expose the root causes and create a compassionate patient centered care to manage your mental health challenges.
Ready to become the optimal version of yourself? Call or text today: (915) 209-5289.
We believe that every individual possesses the strength and capacity for growth, healing, and transformation. We utilize holistic and integrative care, centered on helping clients with substance use disorder, ADHD, stress related disorders, Depression, Anxiety, mood disorders, compassion fatigue, and PTSD.
Together we will discover and expose the root causes and create a compassionate patient centered care to manage your mental health challenges.

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.

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. With innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which is medication-free, and Esketamine, you have access to a wide range of options to support your stability. 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. With innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which is medication-free, and Esketamine, you have access to a wide range of options to support your stability. 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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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.
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 |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | 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
70% | Female | |
30% | 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.