Psychiatrists in Fort Bend County, TX

Peters Etchu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has been in healthcare for over thirteen years, providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to various demography of patients. He has worked with various psychiatric hospitals around the Houston area providing care to underserved population with mental health challenges. He graduated from Delaware State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and earned a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of South Alabama.
Peters Etchu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has been in healthcare for over thirteen years, providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to various demography of patients. He has worked with various psychiatric hospitals around the Houston area providing care to underserved population with mental health challenges. He graduated from Delaware State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and earned a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of South Alabama.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Emily Wu is a Harvard-trained M.D. Psychiatrist. She is Double Board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. She is licensed to practice in Texas. She completed a two-year advanced fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital through Harvard Medical School. She did her residency in Adult Psychiatry at Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency Training Program. She obtained her medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology from Texas A&M University, graduating summa cum laude.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Emily Wu is a Harvard-trained M.D. Psychiatrist. She is Double Board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. She is licensed to practice in Texas. She completed a two-year advanced fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital through Harvard Medical School. She did her residency in Adult Psychiatry at Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency Training Program. She obtained her medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology from Texas A&M University, graduating summa cum laude.

I have been Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology for the past 25 years. I am a graduate of San Jacinto College, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio, and Texas Tech Medical School Residency program in Neuropsychiatry. I diagnose and treat adults, adolescents, and children for most psychiatric disorders especially major depressive disorder and attention deficit disorder (ADHD).
I have been Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology for the past 25 years. I am a graduate of San Jacinto College, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio, and Texas Tech Medical School Residency program in Neuropsychiatry. I diagnose and treat adults, adolescents, and children for most psychiatric disorders especially major depressive disorder and attention deficit disorder (ADHD).

Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.
Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.

Leticia Loret de Mola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Fulshear, TX 77441
Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! Are you looking for some relief from your suffering? Do you desire a provider that listens to you and tries to understand, and tailor the treatment to your individual needs? Contact me, Leticia Loret de Mola, NP today! My desire is to provide more holistic care to my clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound. My philosophy is based on a holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric and medical disorders. My goal is to build a therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique and individual patient care. Hola mi gente, hablo Español. ¡Déjame ayudar!
Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! Are you looking for some relief from your suffering? Do you desire a provider that listens to you and tries to understand, and tailor the treatment to your individual needs? Contact me, Leticia Loret de Mola, NP today! My desire is to provide more holistic care to my clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound. My philosophy is based on a holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric and medical disorders. My goal is to build a therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique and individual patient care. Hola mi gente, hablo Español. ¡Déjame ayudar!

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, or addiction recovery? You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to manage daily life. You want relief, clarity, and a path forward. You need a psychiatrist who listens, understands, and provides effective, evidence-based treatment. Your goal is to regain control, improve your well-being, and find stability. Whether you're seeking medication management, coping strategies, or a supportive space to heal, you deserve compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, or addiction recovery? You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to manage daily life. You want relief, clarity, and a path forward. You need a psychiatrist who listens, understands, and provides effective, evidence-based treatment. Your goal is to regain control, improve your well-being, and find stability. Whether you're seeking medication management, coping strategies, or a supportive space to heal, you deserve compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.

Abiola Oyemade is a Psychiatric Mental Health Provider who sees patients from age 16-90 years, who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from Wilkes University with her Doctorate in Nursing, Walden University with a degree in Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health. Abiola believes in combining Psychopharmacology and psychotherapy as treatment approach. She believes we must be consistent with our actions throughout our journey in life , being persistent and patient in life, will make your goals come into fruition. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Major Depressive disorder and Insomnia.
Abiola Oyemade is a Psychiatric Mental Health Provider who sees patients from age 16-90 years, who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from Wilkes University with her Doctorate in Nursing, Walden University with a degree in Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health. Abiola believes in combining Psychopharmacology and psychotherapy as treatment approach. She believes we must be consistent with our actions throughout our journey in life , being persistent and patient in life, will make your goals come into fruition. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Major Depressive disorder and Insomnia.

Divine Grace Integrative Psychiatry Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MA
Richmond, TX 77407
What are my ideal client's uniqueness, issues, influences, needs, and goals? What can be done to manage them and achieve their goal(s)
What are my ideal client's uniqueness, issues, influences, needs, and goals? What can be done to manage them and achieve their goal(s)

Dr. Macbarbara Amaechi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
13 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Choosing the right provider can be challenging, but I’m glad you’re here, and I’m proud of you. Have you been crying, can't focus, can't get out of bed, low energy, panic attack, can't seem to shut your mind off, can't sleep, low appetite, lack concentration, hearing voices, and have loss interest in things you use to enjoy. If you're struggling with any of these, now might be the time to work with a provider who can help you. I take my time to listen carefully to your symptoms and develop a recovery plan that offers you stability.
Choosing the right provider can be challenging, but I’m glad you’re here, and I’m proud of you. Have you been crying, can't focus, can't get out of bed, low energy, panic attack, can't seem to shut your mind off, can't sleep, low appetite, lack concentration, hearing voices, and have loss interest in things you use to enjoy. If you're struggling with any of these, now might be the time to work with a provider who can help you. I take my time to listen carefully to your symptoms and develop a recovery plan that offers you stability.

Do you ever feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up while others seem to juggle everything effortlessly? Life’s demands—whether from work, school, or personal responsibilities—can sometimes feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who feels this weight daily and is seeking support to regain control, rediscover confidence, and start building a brighter future. As a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience in mental health care, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals like you overcome their struggles. My approach is individualised with decision sharing.
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up while others seem to juggle everything effortlessly? Life’s demands—whether from work, school, or personal responsibilities—can sometimes feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who feels this weight daily and is seeking support to regain control, rediscover confidence, and start building a brighter future. As a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience in mental health care, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals like you overcome their struggles. My approach is individualised with decision sharing.

Adults facing mental health challenges that disrupt their lives—whether it’s persistent sadness, overwhelming anxiety, mood swings, trauma, or difficulty focusing. They may feel stuck, exhausted by their symptoms, or frustrated by strained relationships. Others need support managing conditions like, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or memory concerns (e.g., Alzheimer’s).
Adults facing mental health challenges that disrupt their lives—whether it’s persistent sadness, overwhelming anxiety, mood swings, trauma, or difficulty focusing. They may feel stuck, exhausted by their symptoms, or frustrated by strained relationships. Others need support managing conditions like, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or memory concerns (e.g., Alzheimer’s).

I am Anna Salinas, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys. With extensive experience in psychiatric care treating various mental health conditions. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based practices with personalized care plans. My focus is on understanding each person's unique experiences and tailoring treatment to meet their specific needs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges.
I am Anna Salinas, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys. With extensive experience in psychiatric care treating various mental health conditions. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based practices with personalized care plans. My focus is on understanding each person's unique experiences and tailoring treatment to meet their specific needs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges.

Greetings! I'm Dr. Fahd Rawra, MD, a seasoned Psychiatry Specialist practicing in Riverstone, TX, with over two decades of experience in the field of mental health. I earned my medical degree from Dow Medical College Karachi in 2003 and have since been on a fulfilling journey dedicated to psychiatry. My commitment to excellence led me to the University of Texas, Houston, where I completed my Internship in 2008 and Residency in 2011, further enriching my skills and knowledge. I take pride in achieving Board Certification in Psychiatry, a testament to my dedication to providing top-notch care.
Greetings! I'm Dr. Fahd Rawra, MD, a seasoned Psychiatry Specialist practicing in Riverstone, TX, with over two decades of experience in the field of mental health. I earned my medical degree from Dow Medical College Karachi in 2003 and have since been on a fulfilling journey dedicated to psychiatry. My commitment to excellence led me to the University of Texas, Houston, where I completed my Internship in 2008 and Residency in 2011, further enriching my skills and knowledge. I take pride in achieving Board Certification in Psychiatry, a testament to my dedication to providing top-notch care.

Hello, I'm Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang, a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Cameroon, I began my nursing career in Italy, specializing in neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatrics, home health, and wound care. With three years in the ICU, I pursued and earned my MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. Committed to personalized patient care, I collaborate with healthcare experts for comprehensive solutions. Beyond mental health, I provide medical and oncological nursing assistance. Join me on this journey toward holistic well-being.
Hello, I'm Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang, a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Cameroon, I began my nursing career in Italy, specializing in neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatrics, home health, and wound care. With three years in the ICU, I pursued and earned my MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. Committed to personalized patient care, I collaborate with healthcare experts for comprehensive solutions. Beyond mental health, I provide medical and oncological nursing assistance. Join me on this journey toward holistic well-being.

As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.

Turning Point Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, RN
3 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Dr. Lisa Ghiloni is the founder and owner of Turning Point Psychiatry. Dr. Ghiloni offers a full menu of psychiatric services including psychotherapy, medication management, cognitive testing, and DNA genetic testing for psychiatric and depression medication. Psychiatric services are provided to patients of all ages. Dr. Ghiloni takes great pride in her psychiatric practice. She holds a doctorate in education, master’s in nursing, and is board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has 27 years of mental health experience of all ages. She is a member of the American Nurses Association.
Dr. Lisa Ghiloni is the founder and owner of Turning Point Psychiatry. Dr. Ghiloni offers a full menu of psychiatric services including psychotherapy, medication management, cognitive testing, and DNA genetic testing for psychiatric and depression medication. Psychiatric services are provided to patients of all ages. Dr. Ghiloni takes great pride in her psychiatric practice. She holds a doctorate in education, master’s in nursing, and is board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has 27 years of mental health experience of all ages. She is a member of the American Nurses Association.

Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota, Arizona and Washington State. We work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota, Arizona and Washington State. We work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.

Tele video appointments are available dependent on insurance coverage (verified with headway link), evening weekdays /morning weekends.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in helping adults (18+) navigate ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/OCD/Panic disorder, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. My approach combines psychotropic medication management with brief psychotherapy to create comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.
Tele video appointments are available dependent on insurance coverage (verified with headway link), evening weekdays /morning weekends.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in helping adults (18+) navigate ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/OCD/Panic disorder, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. My approach combines psychotropic medication management with brief psychotherapy to create comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.

My Philosophy of treatment is ‘patient centered”. My methodology begins with empathic listening to my patients and working as a team, I provide diagnosis and various treatment options available to my patients, explaining pros and cons and empowering my patients to make sound choices based on evidence-based medicine. I believe in providing attentive care in a congenial atmosphere to reduce or eliminate sufferings. I make sure that my patients are on the right treatment plan!
My Philosophy of treatment is ‘patient centered”. My methodology begins with empathic listening to my patients and working as a team, I provide diagnosis and various treatment options available to my patients, explaining pros and cons and empowering my patients to make sound choices based on evidence-based medicine. I believe in providing attentive care in a congenial atmosphere to reduce or eliminate sufferings. I make sure that my patients are on the right treatment plan!

Dr. DeJarnette received her bachelors of science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing, MI. She obtained her medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Dr. DeJarnette completed her general psychiatry residency at Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation in New Orleans. She also completed her child psychiatry and forensic psychiatry fellowships in New Orleans at Tulane University Medical Center. She is board certified in general, child and forensic psychiatry.
Dr. DeJarnette received her bachelors of science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing, MI. She obtained her medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Dr. DeJarnette completed her general psychiatry residency at Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation in New Orleans. She also completed her child psychiatry and forensic psychiatry fellowships in New Orleans at Tulane University Medical Center. She is board certified in general, child and forensic psychiatry.
See more therapy options for Fort Bend County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Bend County, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Fort Bend County, TX who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Medication Management |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Bend County, TX see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Bend County?
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.