Psychiatrists in Flower Mound, TX

Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we offer medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we offer medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing care to individuals, couples, families, and groups in both outpatient and in-home settings. I treat a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia. My training allows me to integrate psychotherapy with psychopharmacology, offering comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to each client’s needs.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing care to individuals, couples, families, and groups in both outpatient and in-home settings. I treat a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia. My training allows me to integrate psychotherapy with psychopharmacology, offering comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to each client’s needs.

We are dedicated to enhancing mental health and overall well-being by providing accessible, personalized, and evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs. As Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs), we recognize the importance of holistic, integrated care that addresses both physical and mental health. We strive to reduce barriers to treatment, support patients in managing chronic conditions, and empower individuals into healthier and more fulfilling lives. Through innovation, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, we bring compassionate, professional, and reliable healthcare to you.
We are dedicated to enhancing mental health and overall well-being by providing accessible, personalized, and evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs. As Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs), we recognize the importance of holistic, integrated care that addresses both physical and mental health. We strive to reduce barriers to treatment, support patients in managing chronic conditions, and empower individuals into healthier and more fulfilling lives. Through innovation, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, we bring compassionate, professional, and reliable healthcare to you.

Whole Life Behavioral Health/ Trish Morgan-Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing care to individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. I treat a range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. My approach is collaborative and personalized, grounded in evidence-based practices and a deep commitment to helping clients build resilience and improve their quality of life. I offer care in both outpatient and in-home settings, creating supportive environments where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing care to individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. I treat a range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. My approach is collaborative and personalized, grounded in evidence-based practices and a deep commitment to helping clients build resilience and improve their quality of life. I offer care in both outpatient and in-home settings, creating supportive environments where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.

I began my career as a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry in April 2024, working in an outpatient clinic. My interest in psychiatry developed through my experiences in family medicine, internal medicine, and other specialties, where I often observed that mental health was underemphasized—despite its integral connection to overall well-being. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals newly diagnosed with ADHD or bipolar disorder. I work closely with patients to help them establish realistic, sustainable routines at work and home, allowing lifestyle changes and medications to work together more effectively.
I began my career as a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry in April 2024, working in an outpatient clinic. My interest in psychiatry developed through my experiences in family medicine, internal medicine, and other specialties, where I often observed that mental health was underemphasized—despite its integral connection to overall well-being. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals newly diagnosed with ADHD or bipolar disorder. I work closely with patients to help them establish realistic, sustainable routines at work and home, allowing lifestyle changes and medications to work together more effectively.

Integrative Psychiatry with specialty in creative, unique and neurodivergent individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used plus natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. I emphasize positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
Integrative Psychiatry with specialty in creative, unique and neurodivergent individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used plus natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. I emphasize positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.

Hello, Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, board certified in adult psychiatry since 2013 and child & adolescent psychiatry since 2014. For the last fourteen years, I have treated adults, children, and adolescents with mental health challenges. I have also served in the United States Army Reserve as a psychiatrist. I completed my medical school in India. I did my residency in psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. After the residency, I did a child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Mt. Sinai in New York, NY.
Hello, Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, board certified in adult psychiatry since 2013 and child & adolescent psychiatry since 2014. For the last fourteen years, I have treated adults, children, and adolescents with mental health challenges. I have also served in the United States Army Reserve as a psychiatrist. I completed my medical school in India. I did my residency in psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. After the residency, I did a child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Mt. Sinai in New York, NY.

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.

As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, individualized care to individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns. I assess, prescribe, and implement therapeutic interventions with a focus on holistic well-being, drawing from my experience with diverse patient populations. I prioritize collaboration with patients, families, and healthcare colleagues to support sustainable progress and empower individuals on their path to mental wellness.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, individualized care to individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns. I assess, prescribe, and implement therapeutic interventions with a focus on holistic well-being, drawing from my experience with diverse patient populations. I prioritize collaboration with patients, families, and healthcare colleagues to support sustainable progress and empower individuals on their path to mental wellness.

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.

Dr. Dial's practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable, and confidential environment to explore options for the evaluation and management of emotional and behavioral concerns. Our services include a thorough evaluation, medication management, patient education and may serve as a complement to a patient's current treatment team. We work with a wide range of behavioral and emotional disorders and also provide medication prescription and management. We believe that psychiatric evaluation, in addition to complementary therapeutic approaches (medication, counseling/psychotherapy) provide the best outcome for the patient. Dr. Dial develops specialized treatment plans that are evidenced based.
Dr. Dial's practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable, and confidential environment to explore options for the evaluation and management of emotional and behavioral concerns. Our services include a thorough evaluation, medication management, patient education and may serve as a complement to a patient's current treatment team. We work with a wide range of behavioral and emotional disorders and also provide medication prescription and management. We believe that psychiatric evaluation, in addition to complementary therapeutic approaches (medication, counseling/psychotherapy) provide the best outcome for the patient. Dr. Dial develops specialized treatment plans that are evidenced based.

Sometimes just getting through the day can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. I offer deep healing that gets to the root of your mental health problems, so you can FEEL more like yourself and reclaim your joy. Perhaps you have tried numerous different doctors and medications with no luck? To help you feel your best, I begin by learning your story, beliefs, nutrition, and lifestyle. This is to create a comprehensive and holistic treatment plan that can include: nutraceuticals, supplements, medication, and non-medication approaches to help realize the inner power of who you really are.
Sometimes just getting through the day can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. I offer deep healing that gets to the root of your mental health problems, so you can FEEL more like yourself and reclaim your joy. Perhaps you have tried numerous different doctors and medications with no luck? To help you feel your best, I begin by learning your story, beliefs, nutrition, and lifestyle. This is to create a comprehensive and holistic treatment plan that can include: nutraceuticals, supplements, medication, and non-medication approaches to help realize the inner power of who you really are.

Evening and weekend appointments available — because your mental health shouldn’t have to wait. You’re exhausted from overthinking, underperforming, or being “too much.” Maybe it’s ADHD, anxiety, trauma—or all of it. You want peace, better focus, emotional balance, and real tools to finally feel in control of your life or your child’s behavior. You’re craving relief, clarity, and a provider who truly gets it.
Evening and weekend appointments available — because your mental health shouldn’t have to wait. You’re exhausted from overthinking, underperforming, or being “too much.” Maybe it’s ADHD, anxiety, trauma—or all of it. You want peace, better focus, emotional balance, and real tools to finally feel in control of your life or your child’s behavior. You’re craving relief, clarity, and a provider who truly gets it.

PsychiatryMD - WestBend Fort Worth & Flower Mound
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Flower Mound, TX 75022
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.

Mind Matters PsychiatryMD - Frisco & Flower Mound
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Flower Mound, TX 75022
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.

Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.

I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with experience providing mental health services in both outpatient and in-home settings. I specialize in treating individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Schizophrenia. Born and raised in Japan, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. I bring over a decade of intensive nursing experience from teaching hospitals in Dallas.
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with experience providing mental health services in both outpatient and in-home settings. I specialize in treating individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Schizophrenia. Born and raised in Japan, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. I bring over a decade of intensive nursing experience from teaching hospitals in Dallas.

We provide evidence-based psychiatric care that is in harmony with your faith without relying on reductive pseudoscientific explanations, religious clichés or bypassing. We combine scientific understanding with recognition of how faith shapes your experience and recovery, creating treatment plans that address the full complexity of your needs. Our Christian ethic undergirds our care—affirming each person’s inherent dignity while maintaining therapeutic boundaries in care.
We provide evidence-based psychiatric care that is in harmony with your faith without relying on reductive pseudoscientific explanations, religious clichés or bypassing. We combine scientific understanding with recognition of how faith shapes your experience and recovery, creating treatment plans that address the full complexity of your needs. Our Christian ethic undergirds our care—affirming each person’s inherent dignity while maintaining therapeutic boundaries in care.

As a dedicated Psychiatric Physician Assistant, I am deeply passionate about mental health care, firmly believing that mental health deserves the same level of attention and care as physical health. I aim to create a supportive and welcoming environment where patients can seek the help they need without fear of judgment or stigma. By contributing to this field, I aspire to break down barriers and foster a space where individuals can feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Physician Assistant, I am deeply passionate about mental health care, firmly believing that mental health deserves the same level of attention and care as physical health. I aim to create a supportive and welcoming environment where patients can seek the help they need without fear of judgment or stigma. By contributing to this field, I aspire to break down barriers and foster a space where individuals can feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.
See more therapy options for Flower Mound
Nearby Searches for Flower Mound
- Argyle
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- The Colony
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Flower Mound, TX
30+
Average cost per session
$189
Psychiatrists in Flower Mound, TX who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
84% | Anxiety |
74% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Bipolar Disorder |
58% | Medication Management |
55% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
84% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Flower Mound, TX see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Flower Mound?
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.