Psychiatrists in Elgin, TX

Photo of Anselm Onyeneke, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anselm Onyeneke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.
(817) 765-6146 View (817) 765-6146
Photo of Dr. Sandra Dunkin, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sandra Dunkin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.
Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.
(737) 206-8671 View (737) 206-8671
Photo of Prasanna Sharma - Prasanna Sharma - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prasanna Sharma - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.
(512) 768-0648 View (512) 768-0648
Photo of Lovette Okoh, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lovette Okoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new clients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new clients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(214) 624-6005 View (214) 624-6005

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Pacificah Nyangau - Pacificah Nyangau Doctor Of Nursing Practice, DNP , APRN-RN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pacificah Nyangau Doctor Of Nursing Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN-RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
(832) 957-9499 View (832) 957-9499
Photo of Wolfgang Rosenfeldt, MD, Psychiatrist
Wolfgang Rosenfeldt
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
(469) 754-8124 View (469) 754-8124
Photo of Louisa Ugochukwu - Addams Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Addams Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78750
In my small practice, I focus on truly getting to know you and your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, or feeling stuck in life transitions, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll break free from old patterns and find practical ways to create lasting change. Here, you’ll have a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard and respected as we work on building resilience, strengthening relationships, and gaining the confidence to face whatever life brings.
In my small practice, I focus on truly getting to know you and your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, or feeling stuck in life transitions, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll break free from old patterns and find practical ways to create lasting change. Here, you’ll have a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard and respected as we work on building resilience, strengthening relationships, and gaining the confidence to face whatever life brings.
(512) 525-8255 View (512) 525-8255
Photo of Kayode Zacchaeus Oluwayomi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayode Zacchaeus Oluwayomi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.
(940) 251-2606 View (940) 251-2606
Photo of Rachal Katerle, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Rachal Katerle
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
Rachal is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated with her MPAS from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2023 and began pursuing her passion of supporting mental health through psychiatry. Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses. She provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy in collaboration with Dr. Khan.
Rachal is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated with her MPAS from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2023 and began pursuing her passion of supporting mental health through psychiatry. Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses. She provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy in collaboration with Dr. Khan.
(512) 722-7976 View (512) 722-7976
Photo of Ashley Anne Trabon - Westlake Psychiatry, Physician Assistant
Westlake Psychiatry
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
www.westlakepsychiatry.com
(737) 331-1705 View (737) 331-1705
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.
(737) 339-8386 View (737) 339-8386
Photo of Zack Lazar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zack Lazar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752
I provide holistic, consciousness-informed care as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient (non-crisis) setting. I feel I am an especially good fit for individuals committed to self-discovery, who are in a place of courage and willingness to do the work of healing. Additionally, I feel particularly well suited to serve individuals looking to integrate deep inner work (eg. medicine work, radical perspective shifts in therapy/group, deep meditation study, etc).
I provide holistic, consciousness-informed care as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient (non-crisis) setting. I feel I am an especially good fit for individuals committed to self-discovery, who are in a place of courage and willingness to do the work of healing. Additionally, I feel particularly well suited to serve individuals looking to integrate deep inner work (eg. medicine work, radical perspective shifts in therapy/group, deep meditation study, etc).
(512) 489-9720 View (512) 489-9720
Photo of Whitney H Mitchell, MD, Psychiatrist
Whitney H Mitchell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Whitney H. Mitchell is psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in New Braunfels, Texas with 20 years of experience in psychiatric medicine. She is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a strong foundation in evidence-based care as well as psychodynamic psychotherapy. She is passionate about lifelong learning and continually expands her knowledge in the fields of happiness science, psychology, religion, anthropology, gender, and sexuality. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and issues related to sexual, personality, and relational problems.
Dr. Whitney H. Mitchell is psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in New Braunfels, Texas with 20 years of experience in psychiatric medicine. She is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a strong foundation in evidence-based care as well as psychodynamic psychotherapy. She is passionate about lifelong learning and continually expands her knowledge in the fields of happiness science, psychology, religion, anthropology, gender, and sexuality. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and issues related to sexual, personality, and relational problems.
(830) 542-9931 View (830) 542-9931
Photo of Ma Camille Tabtab, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ma Camille Tabtab
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I'm a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner and I've acquired my Master's Degree at Maryville University. I've been working for a decade in healthcare focusing on emergency and mental heath issues. My profession has enabled me to practice in several countries including the Philippines, New Zealand, and the United States. I'm eager to help people especially those suffering from depression, anxiety, and ptsd.
Hello! I'm a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner and I've acquired my Master's Degree at Maryville University. I've been working for a decade in healthcare focusing on emergency and mental heath issues. My profession has enabled me to practice in several countries including the Philippines, New Zealand, and the United States. I'm eager to help people especially those suffering from depression, anxiety, and ptsd.
(903) 602-1038 View (903) 602-1038
Photo of Jedidiah C Becker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jedidiah C Becker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
Our mental health cannot be neatly separated from our physical bodies or from the unique events that have shaped us as individuals. While psychiatric medications have helped millions of individuals find relief from chronic mental illness and reclaim control of their lives, almost anyone who has struggled with depression or anxiety knows that medications alone are rarely enough to achieve the balanced, fulfilling lives that they desire. The question then becomes, “What else can be done?”
Our mental health cannot be neatly separated from our physical bodies or from the unique events that have shaped us as individuals. While psychiatric medications have helped millions of individuals find relief from chronic mental illness and reclaim control of their lives, almost anyone who has struggled with depression or anxiety knows that medications alone are rarely enough to achieve the balanced, fulfilling lives that they desire. The question then becomes, “What else can be done?”
(512) 233-6841 View (512) 233-6841
Photo of Aaron Cummins, LCSW, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aaron Cummins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
(210) 972-0736 View (210) 972-0736
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(737) 344-4552 View (737) 344-4552
Photo of Marisa Sp Toups - Singularity Psychiatry and Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Singularity Psychiatry and Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I am a psychiatrist with extra training and experience with Treatment Resistant Depression, whether due to common psychiatric comorbidities such as anxiety, OCD, and PTSD or to medical illness. In particular I have a special focus on patients with immunological disease and chronic illness that causes inflammation. My typical patients are adults with a history of treatment failure or who need to balance the effects of complex medication regimens to maximize function. I also work with adults with Bipolar, ADHD, and ASD. I am happy to work with patients of all sexual/gender identities, ethnicities and faiths.
I am a psychiatrist with extra training and experience with Treatment Resistant Depression, whether due to common psychiatric comorbidities such as anxiety, OCD, and PTSD or to medical illness. In particular I have a special focus on patients with immunological disease and chronic illness that causes inflammation. My typical patients are adults with a history of treatment failure or who need to balance the effects of complex medication regimens to maximize function. I also work with adults with Bipolar, ADHD, and ASD. I am happy to work with patients of all sexual/gender identities, ethnicities and faiths.
(512) 543-1499 View (512) 543-1499
Photo of Martha Akinbile, PMHNP, BC, FNP, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martha Akinbile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP, C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Appointments are available within 24-48 hours. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply not yourself? Do you need someone to talk to, who can understand and guide you through these challenging times? Look no further. Our team believes in a holistic approach to address your struggles with insomnia, anxiety, addiction, inattention, low mood/energy, and stress. We are committed to helping you regain control of your life and achieve your mental health goals.
Appointments are available within 24-48 hours. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply not yourself? Do you need someone to talk to, who can understand and guide you through these challenging times? Look no further. Our team believes in a holistic approach to address your struggles with insomnia, anxiety, addiction, inattention, low mood/energy, and stress. We are committed to helping you regain control of your life and achieve your mental health goals.
(713) 766-4654 View (713) 766-4654
Photo of Achie Eneh, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Achie Eneh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! Achie Eneh is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She obtained her FNP degree at South University Savannah, GA and her Post-master's PMHNP degree at Liberty University, Va. She has over 9 years experience in the nursing field providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. She is licensed in WA, OR, CO, NV, AZ, GA, MT, FL and TX.
Accepting New Clients! Achie Eneh is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She obtained her FNP degree at South University Savannah, GA and her Post-master's PMHNP degree at Liberty University, Va. She has over 9 years experience in the nursing field providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. She is licensed in WA, OR, CO, NV, AZ, GA, MT, FL and TX.
(360) 226-8529 View (360) 226-8529

See more therapy options for Elgin

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Elgin, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Elgin, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Stress
75% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Elgin, TX see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Elgin?

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.