Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX

Photo of Bernard Kofi Marfo - Hope Psychiatry & Associates, PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hope Psychiatry & Associates, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75035
Hope Psychiatry & Associates is a Nurse Practitioner driven outpatient mental health clinic managed by our licensed-board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Bernard K. Marfo. Our provider collaborates with an experienced Psychiatrist to provide client-centered mental health services for children, adolescent, and adult. We pride ourselves in providing culturally competent individualized psychiatric and behavioral services through medication management and brief therapy. Let us help you feel the very best and live a happier life by taking the first step today.
Hope Psychiatry & Associates is a Nurse Practitioner driven outpatient mental health clinic managed by our licensed-board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Bernard K. Marfo. Our provider collaborates with an experienced Psychiatrist to provide client-centered mental health services for children, adolescent, and adult. We pride ourselves in providing culturally competent individualized psychiatric and behavioral services through medication management and brief therapy. Let us help you feel the very best and live a happier life by taking the first step today.
(972) 433-9774 View (972) 433-9774
Photo of Yemi Aina, MD, Psychiatrist
Yemi Aina
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Are you or a loved one burdened by chronic depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, insomnia or brain fog? Have these conditions disrupted your sense of well-being and made daily life and relationships challenging? Tri-MED's integrative approach empowers you to experience maximal health through personalized treatments that heal the mind and body. Beyond medication management, we offer innovative modalities, such as Spravato, IM and IV Ketamine and deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS).
Are you or a loved one burdened by chronic depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, insomnia or brain fog? Have these conditions disrupted your sense of well-being and made daily life and relationships challenging? Tri-MED's integrative approach empowers you to experience maximal health through personalized treatments that heal the mind and body. Beyond medication management, we offer innovative modalities, such as Spravato, IM and IV Ketamine and deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS).
(972) 885-3348 View (972) 885-3348
Photo of Aminur Rahman, MD, Psychiatrist
Aminur Rahman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Mental health is essential for leading a happy life. As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, I work with patients and their families to help alleviate suffering and improve quality of life so they are able to function at their full potential. My background includes understanding family functioning, development, social, academic, occupational functioning and psychiatric challenges. I aim to understand my patients so that I can help improve their mental conditions. My approach is to discuss with my patient and their family treatment options based on the biopsychosocial model.
Mental health is essential for leading a happy life. As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, I work with patients and their families to help alleviate suffering and improve quality of life so they are able to function at their full potential. My background includes understanding family functioning, development, social, academic, occupational functioning and psychiatric challenges. I aim to understand my patients so that I can help improve their mental conditions. My approach is to discuss with my patient and their family treatment options based on the biopsychosocial model.
(972) 402-6457 View (972) 402-6457
Photo of April Monarrez Parker - EZ Mind Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EZ Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
(469) 564-4154 View (469) 564-4154
Photo of Jacinta Madu, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacinta Madu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
I am the lead board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), at GOFAN Healthcare Services LLC. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
I am the lead board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), at GOFAN Healthcare Services LLC. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
(972) 945-0448 View (972) 945-0448
Photo of April Parker - EZ Mind Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EZ Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
(214) 239-0235 View (214) 239-0235
Photo of Dr. Lannie Thomas, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lannie Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Dr. Lannie Thomas, and I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience in behavioral health. I started my healthcare career in South Florida in 1993 as a practical nurse. As the field of nursing and technology evolved, my desire to serve my community through healthcare also grew. I earned a Bachelor of Nursing from
Hi, my name is Dr. Lannie Thomas, and I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience in behavioral health. I started my healthcare career in South Florida in 1993 as a practical nurse. As the field of nursing and technology evolved, my desire to serve my community through healthcare also grew. I earned a Bachelor of Nursing from
(972) 845-4791 View (972) 845-4791
Photo of Jacinta Madu, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacinta Madu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
My name is Jacinta Madu. I am an experienced PMHNP-BC with a strong background specializing in psychiatric-mental health and behavioral issues across the lifespan. I am a strong believer that mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are having difficulty coping with life or experiencing a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function on a daily basis, let me help! I have practiced in a variety of settings as an independent member of the health care team, collaborating with other health professionals to provide mental health care services.
My name is Jacinta Madu. I am an experienced PMHNP-BC with a strong background specializing in psychiatric-mental health and behavioral issues across the lifespan. I am a strong believer that mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are having difficulty coping with life or experiencing a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function on a daily basis, let me help! I have practiced in a variety of settings as an independent member of the health care team, collaborating with other health professionals to provide mental health care services.
(214) 949-8284 View (214) 949-8284
Photo of Reshmi Dutta, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reshmi Dutta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75036
My ideal client is someone seeking compassionate, personalized care for mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or trauma. They need a practitioner who listens deeply, tailors treatment plans to their unique needs, and provides a safe space to explore their emotions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving their quality of life, and finding resilience. They want to be heard, supported, and empowered to reclaim their mental wellness, knowing they have a dedicated partner in their journey..
My ideal client is someone seeking compassionate, personalized care for mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or trauma. They need a practitioner who listens deeply, tailors treatment plans to their unique needs, and provides a safe space to explore their emotions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving their quality of life, and finding resilience. They want to be heard, supported, and empowered to reclaim their mental wellness, knowing they have a dedicated partner in their journey..
(469) 747-0211 View (469) 747-0211
Photo of Furqan Rizvi, MD, Psychiatrist
Furqan Rizvi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75036
Dr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, currently providing psychiatric services at a private office in Frisco Mental Health Services and as a chief medical officer at Haven Behavioral Hospital of Frisco. Dr. Rizvi provides services to ages 10 years and above. He is well experienced in providing medication management for a wide spectrum of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, schizophrenia, sleep issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and behavioral disturbances related to dementia.
Dr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, currently providing psychiatric services at a private office in Frisco Mental Health Services and as a chief medical officer at Haven Behavioral Hospital of Frisco. Dr. Rizvi provides services to ages 10 years and above. He is well experienced in providing medication management for a wide spectrum of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, schizophrenia, sleep issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and behavioral disturbances related to dementia.
(469) 824-3511 View (469) 824-3511
Photo of Lubna Siddiki, MD, Psychiatrist
Lubna Siddiki
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75035
At Perfect Balance Psychiatric Services our philosophy is restoring peace and empowering wellness back into your life! Our clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual.
At Perfect Balance Psychiatric Services our philosophy is restoring peace and empowering wellness back into your life! Our clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual.
(214) 983-9423 View (214) 983-9423
Photo of Hea W Shin, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hea W Shin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults. I believe each client needs individualized care, and approach every client with respect and nonjudgmental way. I provide combination of talk therapy, comprehensive evaluation, and medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults. I believe each client needs individualized care, and approach every client with respect and nonjudgmental way. I provide combination of talk therapy, comprehensive evaluation, and medication management.
(972) 360-9649 View (972) 360-9649
Photo of Nazimuddin Talha Mohammed - Compassionate Psychiatric Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Compassionate Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75035
Hello, I’m Dr. Mohammed, Medical Director of Compassionate Psychiatric services. I finished Residency in Psychiatry through The University of Tennessee, Memphis-TN in the year 2004. Besides being Chief Resident during this Program, I was the top performer in PRITE(Psychiatry Residents In-Service Exam). I am board certified in General Adult Psychiatry and has extensive experience practicing Psychiatry since 2004. I was an affiliate Asst.Professor of Psychiatry at Loyola Medical School, Hines- IL.
Hello, I’m Dr. Mohammed, Medical Director of Compassionate Psychiatric services. I finished Residency in Psychiatry through The University of Tennessee, Memphis-TN in the year 2004. Besides being Chief Resident during this Program, I was the top performer in PRITE(Psychiatry Residents In-Service Exam). I am board certified in General Adult Psychiatry and has extensive experience practicing Psychiatry since 2004. I was an affiliate Asst.Professor of Psychiatry at Loyola Medical School, Hines- IL.
(972) 846-8314 View (972) 846-8314
Photo of Charity Kinyua - Accessible  Behavioral Care Services ( ABCs), MSN, APRN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Accessible Behavioral Care Services ( ABCs)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients: Aged 8 to 99 y/o. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I perform initial Psychiatric evaluations, Diagnosis, treatment with ongoing medication management for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, personality disorders,PTSD, OCD, Postpartum depression and many more not listed here.
Accepting new patients: Aged 8 to 99 y/o. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I perform initial Psychiatric evaluations, Diagnosis, treatment with ongoing medication management for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, personality disorders,PTSD, OCD, Postpartum depression and many more not listed here.
(469) 672-3068 View (469) 672-3068
Photo of Meron Tibebu, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meron Tibebu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Meron Tibebu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master's Degree from the University of Missouri Kansas City. Meron values and respects her patients while providing patient centered care. She follows holistic and collaborative approach. In her spare time, Meron enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and loves to travel when she gets a chance.
Meron Tibebu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master's Degree from the University of Missouri Kansas City. Meron values and respects her patients while providing patient centered care. She follows holistic and collaborative approach. In her spare time, Meron enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and loves to travel when she gets a chance.
(972) 848-6283 View (972) 848-6283
Photo of Dr. Olufunke Mercy Jinadu - Dr. Olu Mercy Jinadu @ Mercygrace Mental Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Olu Mercy Jinadu @ Mercygrace Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I am a doctorally prepared, and Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management and Psychotherapy to patients via office visit apportionment at our locations in Frisco and Arlington Texas. I also provide electronic service via Telepsychiatric where you can be seen on a device without you leaving the comfort of your home. At Mercygrace Mental Wellness, I am committed to providing individualized care using evidence-based principles. I see patients ages 12yrs to 99yrs. I have been in mental health setting for over 10 years.
I am a doctorally prepared, and Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management and Psychotherapy to patients via office visit apportionment at our locations in Frisco and Arlington Texas. I also provide electronic service via Telepsychiatric where you can be seen on a device without you leaving the comfort of your home. At Mercygrace Mental Wellness, I am committed to providing individualized care using evidence-based principles. I see patients ages 12yrs to 99yrs. I have been in mental health setting for over 10 years.
(817) 754-5943 View (817) 754-5943
Photo of Omotayo Gbengaojo - Holistic  Health and Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
(469) 947-7261 View (469) 947-7261
Photo of Tayo Olotewo - Tayo Olotewo @ Thrive Psychiatry,PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tayo Olotewo @ Thrive Psychiatry,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you ready to take the first step in getting the help you desire? At Thrive Psychiatry, PLLC, we provide virtual psychiatric treatments. We incorporate holistic, individualized treatment to each client's treatment. If you are looking for a safe, compassionate judgment free zone, we are here to assist you.
Are you ready to take the first step in getting the help you desire? At Thrive Psychiatry, PLLC, we provide virtual psychiatric treatments. We incorporate holistic, individualized treatment to each client's treatment. If you are looking for a safe, compassionate judgment free zone, we are here to assist you.
(972) 433-5439 View (972) 433-5439
Photo of Navdip Kaur - Peace Way Psychiatry - Navdip Kaur, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peace Way Psychiatry - Navdip Kaur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Peace Way psychiatrist will reach you where you are because your comfort and safety is our priority. One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. I am here with you in this journey which will be full of miracles and accomplishments. Peace Way team will bring your smiles and success back to your lives that you deserve. Your stories will inspire others and Peace Way Psychiatrist will advocate her clients recognizing strength in the aftermath of their emotional recovery.
Peace Way psychiatrist will reach you where you are because your comfort and safety is our priority. One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. I am here with you in this journey which will be full of miracles and accomplishments. Peace Way team will bring your smiles and success back to your lives that you deserve. Your stories will inspire others and Peace Way Psychiatrist will advocate her clients recognizing strength in the aftermath of their emotional recovery.
(972) 430-7886 View (972) 430-7886
Photo of Dr. Steffi Mendoza, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Steffi Mendoza
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I help children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with ADHD and mood dysregulation find relief from depression or irritability, decrease anger outbursts, build a positive self-esteem, develop healthier relationships, and improve their organization and performance at school or work. Similar to working with a pediatrician over the first 18 years of life, I work with my patients over an extended period of time to improve and maintain optimal mental health through each stage of development. As a trusted provider for your family, I also partner with parents in supporting their children to become more joyful and confident individuals.
I help children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with ADHD and mood dysregulation find relief from depression or irritability, decrease anger outbursts, build a positive self-esteem, develop healthier relationships, and improve their organization and performance at school or work. Similar to working with a pediatrician over the first 18 years of life, I work with my patients over an extended period of time to improve and maintain optimal mental health through each stage of development. As a trusted provider for your family, I also partner with parents in supporting their children to become more joyful and confident individuals.
(972) 564-8839 View (972) 564-8839
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
96% Depression
91% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
78% ADHD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
91% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Frisco?

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.