Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, TX

Photo of Michelle Cantu - Michelle L Cantu, MD, PA, MD, Psychiatrist
Michelle L Cantu, MD, PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Whether you are new to mental health or have a history of mental health issues, you are likely looking for a supportive environment, diagnostic clarification, and knowledge regarding all treatment options. You are needing a provider who will listen to your concerns and get to know you as a person. If you are the parent of a child with mental health issues, you are seeking a place where your child will feel comfortable and nurtured. You are wanting a provider who will spend the time getting to know your child and family dynamic, while providing your child with the quality care they would want for their own children.
Whether you are new to mental health or have a history of mental health issues, you are likely looking for a supportive environment, diagnostic clarification, and knowledge regarding all treatment options. You are needing a provider who will listen to your concerns and get to know you as a person. If you are the parent of a child with mental health issues, you are seeking a place where your child will feel comfortable and nurtured. You are wanting a provider who will spend the time getting to know your child and family dynamic, while providing your child with the quality care they would want for their own children.
(210) 985-7976 View (210) 985-7976
Photo of Dr. Susan Wynne, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Susan Wynne
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
(210) 615-8900 View (210) 615-8900
Photo of Christina Exum - Soulwork Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Soulwork Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Christina Exum and I am a therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from UT Health in San Antonio Texas and have been in practice since 2019. I am also an Integrative Nutritional Health Coach. I work at a deep level with individuals in therapy who want to break out of unhelpful patterns affecting their lives in order to awaken unrealized vitality, potential, and creativity. I prescribe psychiatric medications when needed.
Hello! My name is Christina Exum and I am a therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from UT Health in San Antonio Texas and have been in practice since 2019. I am also an Integrative Nutritional Health Coach. I work at a deep level with individuals in therapy who want to break out of unhelpful patterns affecting their lives in order to awaken unrealized vitality, potential, and creativity. I prescribe psychiatric medications when needed.
(830) 202-6276 View (830) 202-6276

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vanessa L Vela, MD, Psychiatrist
Vanessa L Vela
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have been practicing for 19 years and continue to look forward to helping others find the proper treatment for their needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. I understand that each of my patients have unique strengths. I am committed to providing genuine, caring and confidential care for professionals, families and children. I am a firm believer in change and hold an optimistic view in helping others. I often find that people have gone without treatment for various reasons but I am here to help them find the appropriate direction.
I have been practicing for 19 years and continue to look forward to helping others find the proper treatment for their needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. I understand that each of my patients have unique strengths. I am committed to providing genuine, caring and confidential care for professionals, families and children. I am a firm believer in change and hold an optimistic view in helping others. I often find that people have gone without treatment for various reasons but I am here to help them find the appropriate direction.
(830) 254-5217 View (830) 254-5217
Photo of Cynthia Hathaway, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Hathaway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new patients! I treat adolescents ages 14 and up as well as adults struggling with mental health disorders such as depression, Alcohol Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety diorders, and ADHD to name a few. I have been a nurse for over 27 years, and my multiple deployments as an Air Force Flight Nurse and intensive care nurse have given me a wide range of experience in caring for others who have endured significant physical and mental trauma. My office is a private environment designed to give you compassionate care and implement a treatment plan to help you to live your best life of mental health and wellness.
Accepting new patients! I treat adolescents ages 14 and up as well as adults struggling with mental health disorders such as depression, Alcohol Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety diorders, and ADHD to name a few. I have been a nurse for over 27 years, and my multiple deployments as an Air Force Flight Nurse and intensive care nurse have given me a wide range of experience in caring for others who have endured significant physical and mental trauma. My office is a private environment designed to give you compassionate care and implement a treatment plan to help you to live your best life of mental health and wellness.
(830) 423-5640 View (830) 423-5640
Photo of Jean Dunham, MD, Psychiatrist
Jean Dunham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new patients: children ages 3 and up, adolescents, and young adults. Welcome to Roots and Wings Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Our philosophy is that every child should be imparted with two gifts. One is roots and the other is wings. I am a licensed physician since 2005 and have been practicing primarily child and adolescent psychiatry since 2008. Our goal is to see every child flourish in the context of his or her family. In addition to traditional psychiatric medication management, we also offer alternative treatments, as well as individual and family therapy.
Currently accepting new patients: children ages 3 and up, adolescents, and young adults. Welcome to Roots and Wings Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Our philosophy is that every child should be imparted with two gifts. One is roots and the other is wings. I am a licensed physician since 2005 and have been practicing primarily child and adolescent psychiatry since 2008. Our goal is to see every child flourish in the context of his or her family. In addition to traditional psychiatric medication management, we also offer alternative treatments, as well as individual and family therapy.
(512) 778-2018 View (512) 778-2018
Photo of Lori Ray, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Lori’s primary goal is to work with individuals who struggle with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, and PTSD. This can be achieved through a collaborative approach with the patient and provider using traditional or holistic approaches to improve symptoms, improve quality of life, and rebuild relationships that may have been lost along the way.
Lori’s primary goal is to work with individuals who struggle with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, and PTSD. This can be achieved through a collaborative approach with the patient and provider using traditional or holistic approaches to improve symptoms, improve quality of life, and rebuild relationships that may have been lost along the way.
(737) 520-3869 View (737) 520-3869
Photo of Dr. Ernest Spiotto - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(737) 317-2544 View (737) 317-2544
Photo of Perry Bishop, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Perry Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Through active listening and compassionate care, Perry Bishop, PMHNP, is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of psychiatric care to his patients. Perry prides himself on being an advocate for his patients. He strives to deliver the highest quality of care to create personalized treatment plans. His goal is to support his patients so they can achieve their goals in life.
Through active listening and compassionate care, Perry Bishop, PMHNP, is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of psychiatric care to his patients. Perry prides himself on being an advocate for his patients. He strives to deliver the highest quality of care to create personalized treatment plans. His goal is to support his patients so they can achieve their goals in life.
(737) 373-4067 View (737) 373-4067
Photo of Phillip Balfanz, MD, Psychiatrist
Phillip Balfanz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kerrville, TX 78028
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with experience in helping family members of all ages when illness interferes with a person's mental health. I believe in the process of recovery and the power of hope in working toward a healthier life.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with experience in helping family members of all ages when illness interferes with a person's mental health. I believe in the process of recovery and the power of hope in working toward a healthier life.
(210) 880-3424 View (210) 880-3424
Photo of Maitreyee Lund, MD, Psychiatrist
Maitreyee Lund
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Lund provides individualized psychiatric treatment with the careful use of medications along with psychotherapy to adults and older adolescents. After completing psychiatric residency at University of Michigan she has received extensive training in psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness.
Dr. Lund provides individualized psychiatric treatment with the careful use of medications along with psychotherapy to adults and older adolescents. After completing psychiatric residency at University of Michigan she has received extensive training in psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness.
(512) 361-5848 View (512) 361-5848
Photo of Jerilyn Town, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jerilyn Town
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The ideal client is motivated to seek help. This patient may struggle with a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. They want to regain control over their lives and alleviate the distress caused by their mental health conditions. Their desire for help often stems from their symptoms' impact on their personal, social, and professional lives. Their goals are typically centered around achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing overall quality of life. They may also seek to develop healthier coping mechanisms and better interpersonal relationships.
The ideal client is motivated to seek help. This patient may struggle with a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. They want to regain control over their lives and alleviate the distress caused by their mental health conditions. Their desire for help often stems from their symptoms' impact on their personal, social, and professional lives. Their goals are typically centered around achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing overall quality of life. They may also seek to develop healthier coping mechanisms and better interpersonal relationships.
(832) 281-5357 View (832) 281-5357
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(830) 402-4373 View (830) 402-4373
Photo of Andrew Rumble, DO, Psychiatrist
Andrew Rumble
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I previously served in the United States Army for a total of 8 years active duty. While in the Army, I treated service members and their families with an emphasis on improving symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and difficult life cycle transitions.
I previously served in the United States Army for a total of 8 years active duty. While in the Army, I treated service members and their families with an emphasis on improving symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and difficult life cycle transitions.
(737) 637-3589 View (737) 637-3589
Photo of Ernest Spiotto, MD, Psychiatrist
Ernest Spiotto
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Ernest Spiotto is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned his M.D. at Albany Medical College. Dr. Spiotto is compassionate and dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of adults. He offers comprehensive treatment plans, including medication management and supportive psychotherapy, to help patients overcome their challenges and thrive. Outside of work, Dr. Spiotto is an avid reader and traveler, always seeking new knowledge and experiences.
Dr. Ernest Spiotto is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned his M.D. at Albany Medical College. Dr. Spiotto is compassionate and dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of adults. He offers comprehensive treatment plans, including medication management and supportive psychotherapy, to help patients overcome their challenges and thrive. Outside of work, Dr. Spiotto is an avid reader and traveler, always seeking new knowledge and experiences.
(737) 373-2664 View (737) 373-2664
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(830) 293-5616 View (830) 293-5616
Photo of Sharon Karki, MD, Psychiatrist
Sharon Karki
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 5 years in outpatient and in home settings.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 5 years in outpatient and in home settings.
(512) 575-2003 View (512) 575-2003
Photo of Shamima Khan, MD, Psychiatrist
Shamima Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Shamima Khan, MD, is a highly rated psychiatrist who's board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. A proud member of the LifeStance Health, PLLC, team in Houston, Texas, Dr. Khan treats individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought process disorders, substance abuse disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and eating disorders. Dr. Khan earned her medical degree from the renowned medical school, Dhaka Medical College in Bangladesh.
Shamima Khan, MD, is a highly rated psychiatrist who's board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. A proud member of the LifeStance Health, PLLC, team in Houston, Texas, Dr. Khan treats individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought process disorders, substance abuse disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and eating disorders. Dr. Khan earned her medical degree from the renowned medical school, Dhaka Medical College in Bangladesh.
(281) 853-8327 View (281) 853-8327
Photo of Bennett Ndubisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Bennett Ndubisi
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
r. Bennett Ndubisi DNP is a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and possesses an MSN and a DNP Doctor of Nursing Practice from Walden University, MN. He has several years of experience in psychiatric practice with extensive clinical expertise in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric nursing, home health, and hospital settings, Bennett focuses on improving the well-being of individuals dealing with mental health and substance use disorders and aims to apply his skills within a team that prioritizes patient-centered care and facilitates significant life changes.
r. Bennett Ndubisi DNP is a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and possesses an MSN and a DNP Doctor of Nursing Practice from Walden University, MN. He has several years of experience in psychiatric practice with extensive clinical expertise in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric nursing, home health, and hospital settings, Bennett focuses on improving the well-being of individuals dealing with mental health and substance use disorders and aims to apply his skills within a team that prioritizes patient-centered care and facilitates significant life changes.
(737) 383-1330 View (737) 383-1330
Photo of Kimberly Giberga, MSN , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Giberga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you need a partner to help you start back on the path to your best self, I understand that life can present challenges with mood disorders such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Insomnia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Irritability, Eating disorders and generally feeling 'off' or unlike yourself. I can help you face those difficulties. If you want to take that courageous first step towards getting your life back, reach out today. I'm here to help you. I also specialize in treatment resistant depression and use Spravato (esketamine) in my clinic with great success. I want to help you make your life better.
If you need a partner to help you start back on the path to your best self, I understand that life can present challenges with mood disorders such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Insomnia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Irritability, Eating disorders and generally feeling 'off' or unlike yourself. I can help you face those difficulties. If you want to take that courageous first step towards getting your life back, reach out today. I'm here to help you. I also specialize in treatment resistant depression and use Spravato (esketamine) in my clinic with great success. I want to help you make your life better.
(210) 981-4063 View (210) 981-4063

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Nearby Searches for Fredericksburg

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Medication Management
67% Child
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna
33% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fredericksburg?

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.