Psychiatrists in Friendswood, TX

Photo of Caroline Lam, Psychiatrist, MD
Caroline Lam
Psychiatrist, MD
Friendswood, TX 77546
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
(281) 937-8209 View (281) 937-8209
Photo of Jacquelin Joffray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacquelin Joffray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Friendswood, TX 77546
Jacquelin Joffray is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys providing mental health care, for a variety of mental health conditions. She began her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, graduating with her master's degree from the University of South Alabama. But in realizing she wanted to do more, she later attended Frontier Nursing University, and obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate certificate, across the lifespan. Jacquelin takes pride in helping to address the mental health stigma and shame in seeking care.
Jacquelin Joffray is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys providing mental health care, for a variety of mental health conditions. She began her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, graduating with her master's degree from the University of South Alabama. But in realizing she wanted to do more, she later attended Frontier Nursing University, and obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate certificate, across the lifespan. Jacquelin takes pride in helping to address the mental health stigma and shame in seeking care.
(281) 374-1872 View (281) 374-1872
Photo of Joshua Freedman - HealthPiper, Psychiatrist
HealthPiper
Psychiatrist
Friendswood, TX 77546
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(346) 626-2571 View (346) 626-2571
Photo of Irene Pedraza - Friendswood Psychiatry and TMS Clinic, Psychiatrist, MD
Friendswood Psychiatry and TMS Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry where I served as Chief Fellow. I am dedicated to my patients' success in healing, growth, and overall wellbeing. My goal is to guide patients through their mental health journey toward positive outcomes and improved quality of life.
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry where I served as Chief Fellow. I am dedicated to my patients' success in healing, growth, and overall wellbeing. My goal is to guide patients through their mental health journey toward positive outcomes and improved quality of life.
(713) 487-5481 View (713) 487-5481
Photo of Mehreen Ghanchi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Mehreen Ghanchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Friendswood, TX 77546
Mehreen Ghanchi is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Mehreen's heart and passion is not only in caring for others but assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. Mehreen's experience includes several years of working in a psychiatric hospital serving children, adolescent and adult population.
Mehreen Ghanchi is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Mehreen's heart and passion is not only in caring for others but assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. Mehreen's experience includes several years of working in a psychiatric hospital serving children, adolescent and adult population.
(281) 937-8854 View (281) 937-8854
Photo of Chantelle Shaw, Psychiatrist, DO
Chantelle Shaw
Psychiatrist, DO
Friendswood, TX 77546
Dr. Chantelle Shaw is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She offers a comprehensive range of support and expertise to her clients. With a deep cultural understanding, Dr. Shaw brings sensitivity and insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by children and adolescents, considering cultural, social, and familial factors impacting mental health. She provides tailored treatment approaches that are culturally competent and relevant, respecting her clients’ cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values. Dr.
Dr. Chantelle Shaw is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She offers a comprehensive range of support and expertise to her clients. With a deep cultural understanding, Dr. Shaw brings sensitivity and insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by children and adolescents, considering cultural, social, and familial factors impacting mental health. She provides tailored treatment approaches that are culturally competent and relevant, respecting her clients’ cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values. Dr.
(346) 589-8092 View (346) 589-8092
Photo of Melissa C Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Melissa C Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Friendswood, TX 77546
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. My aim is to build a therapeutic relationship with each patient to help them achieve their mental health goals and an understanding of their symptoms. I am dedicated to providing quality, compassionate care to all persons.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. My aim is to build a therapeutic relationship with each patient to help them achieve their mental health goals and an understanding of their symptoms. I am dedicated to providing quality, compassionate care to all persons.
(832) 391-5254 View (832) 391-5254
Photo of Salah Qureshi - Texas Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Texas Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
(832) 937-7586 x1 View (832) 937-7586 x1
Photo of Darren Fred, Psychiatrist, MD
Darren Fred
Psychiatrist, MD
Friendswood, TX 77546
Darren Fred is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University, graduating summa cum laude, and a medical degree from University of Texas Medical School at Houston (McGovern). He completed his Residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock serving as Chief Resident in years 3 and 4. Darren values psychoeducation above all else. Darren believes in the importance of educating his patients about their conditions and potential treatments to demystify mental health issues and help them make informed decisions about their care.
Darren Fred is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University, graduating summa cum laude, and a medical degree from University of Texas Medical School at Houston (McGovern). He completed his Residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock serving as Chief Resident in years 3 and 4. Darren values psychoeducation above all else. Darren believes in the importance of educating his patients about their conditions and potential treatments to demystify mental health issues and help them make informed decisions about their care.
(346) 206-1549 View (346) 206-1549
Photo of Shakil Siddiqui, Psychiatrist, MD
Shakil Siddiqui
Psychiatrist, MD
Friendswood, TX 77546
Shakil Siddiqui, M.D. is a highly rated psychiatrist and a proud member of Lifestance Health PLLC team in Houston, Texas. Dr. Siddiqui has more than 25 years of experience as psychiatrist. He has experience treating multiple different psychiatric illnesses including Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, PSTD, etc. For several years, Dr. Siddiqui worked at Rusk Hospital in Rusk, Texas where he treated a large number of acutely ill and newly admitted psychiatric patients in the psychiatric unit.
Shakil Siddiqui, M.D. is a highly rated psychiatrist and a proud member of Lifestance Health PLLC team in Houston, Texas. Dr. Siddiqui has more than 25 years of experience as psychiatrist. He has experience treating multiple different psychiatric illnesses including Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, PSTD, etc. For several years, Dr. Siddiqui worked at Rusk Hospital in Rusk, Texas where he treated a large number of acutely ill and newly admitted psychiatric patients in the psychiatric unit.
(281) 767-4089 View (281) 767-4089
Photo of Dr. Darren Fred - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Friendswood, TX 77546
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.
(346) 482-5416 View (346) 482-5416
Photo of Tara Lemens, Psychiatrist, MD
Tara Lemens
Psychiatrist, MD
Friendswood, TX 77546
Tara Lemens, MD, is a dedicated psychiatrist at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Texas. She brings extensive experience in treating a variety of conditions, with a special focus on treatmentresistant depression, other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and traumarelated disorders. Dr. Lemens is CTMSs PULSEs trained in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treatment, a cuttingedge, FDAapproved therapy for treatmentresistant depression and OCD. This advanced intervention, along with her expertise in medication management, provides hope and relief to individuals facing persistent mental health challenges.
Tara Lemens, MD, is a dedicated psychiatrist at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Texas. She brings extensive experience in treating a variety of conditions, with a special focus on treatmentresistant depression, other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and traumarelated disorders. Dr. Lemens is CTMSs PULSEs trained in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treatment, a cuttingedge, FDAapproved therapy for treatmentresistant depression and OCD. This advanced intervention, along with her expertise in medication management, provides hope and relief to individuals facing persistent mental health challenges.
(281) 317-6831 View (281) 317-6831
Photo of Feilcitas Okwara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Feilcitas Okwara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Friendswood, TX 77546
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
(346) 476-4579 View (346) 476-4579
Photo of Shamira Green, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shamira Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
Welcome to my profile! I am Shamira Green, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a heartfelt dedication to providing compassionate care. My journey in healthcare has allowed me to serve patients across all ages in diverse settings, from acute care hospitals to long-term care facilities. My commitment extends beyond professional settings, as I've actively volunteered within my community to ensure accessible healthcare for all. I proudly hold a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Sam Houston State University, where I also thrived as a collegiate athlete.
Welcome to my profile! I am Shamira Green, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a heartfelt dedication to providing compassionate care. My journey in healthcare has allowed me to serve patients across all ages in diverse settings, from acute care hospitals to long-term care facilities. My commitment extends beyond professional settings, as I've actively volunteered within my community to ensure accessible healthcare for all. I proudly hold a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Sam Houston State University, where I also thrived as a collegiate athlete.
(346) 637-3452 View (346) 637-3452
Photo of Edmund Cavazos, Psychiatrist, MD
Edmund Cavazos
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
(210) 361-6758 View (210) 361-6758
Photo of Cat Neumann-Nowinski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Cat Neumann-Nowinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
I offer comprehensive mental health services, including medication management from a holistic, personalized approach. If you’re here, chances are you’re ready to explore some deeper healing, and I’m here to guide you through the adventure. If you’re seeking that holistic approach to mental health care, I can help you navigate your journey with personalized psychiatric services focused on medication management, therapy, and overall well-being. Let’s work together to develop a treatment plan that supports both your mental and physical health for lasting, positive change!
I offer comprehensive mental health services, including medication management from a holistic, personalized approach. If you’re here, chances are you’re ready to explore some deeper healing, and I’m here to guide you through the adventure. If you’re seeking that holistic approach to mental health care, I can help you navigate your journey with personalized psychiatric services focused on medication management, therapy, and overall well-being. Let’s work together to develop a treatment plan that supports both your mental and physical health for lasting, positive change!
(346) 597-9050 View (346) 597-9050
Photo of Tariro Matsikire - Dr. Tari Matsikire, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Dr. Tari Matsikire, DNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Description As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), I provide comprehensive care to both children and adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and experiences of individuals across different age groups, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both children and adults. In my practice, I work closely with children, adolescents, and their families to address mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, DMDD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, and more
Description As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), I provide comprehensive care to both children and adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and experiences of individuals across different age groups, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both children and adults. In my practice, I work closely with children, adolescents, and their families to address mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, DMDD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, and more
(832) 583-7597 View (832) 583-7597
Photo of Kehinde Adedayo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Kehinde Adedayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. My background includes extensive training experience in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. My philosophy of patient care is to provide the highest level of evidence-based quality care to my patients, their families, and the communities that I serve. I enjoy working with people from a variety of backgrounds and work to provide socially and culturally competent care.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. My background includes extensive training experience in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. My philosophy of patient care is to provide the highest level of evidence-based quality care to my patients, their families, and the communities that I serve. I enjoy working with people from a variety of backgrounds and work to provide socially and culturally competent care.
(713) 538-1461 View (713) 538-1461
Photo of Juliet Wabara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Juliet Wabara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I am Juliet. I am hard working, dedicated and committed to the care of my patients. I work with my patients by listening effectively before developing a treatment plan.
Hi, I am Juliet. I am hard working, dedicated and committed to the care of my patients. I work with my patients by listening effectively before developing a treatment plan.
(817) 587-4261 View (817) 587-4261
Photo of Tonika Collins LaFlora, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tonika Collins LaFlora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas. I received my Masters at Walden University and I have been practicing for 4 years. I specialize in diagnosing and treatment of all mental illnesses.
Hi! I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas. I received my Masters at Walden University and I have been practicing for 4 years. I specialize in diagnosing and treatment of all mental illnesses.
(214) 919-3644 View (214) 919-3644
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See more therapy options for Friendswood

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Friendswood, TX

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Friendswood, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
75% Bipolar Disorder
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% ADHD
61% Medication Management
56% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
97% Cigna and Evernorth
91% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Friendswood, TX see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Friendswood?

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.