Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX

Photo of Christienne Felice Callasan, PMHNP, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christienne Felice Callasan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Christienne brings extensive psychiatric care experience, having served as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Prime Psychiatry in Frisco and Changes McKinney in McKinney, Texas. She excels in conducting thorough assessments, managing cases effectively, and creating customized treatment plans. Before specializing in psychiatry, Christienne spent nearly eight years at Texas Health Resources in Arlington, progressing from a Mental Health Technician to Charge Nurse in the Behavioral Health Unit. She earned her MSN from Walden University, focusing on Psychiatric Mental Health, and a BSN from La Consolacion College in Manila.
Christienne brings extensive psychiatric care experience, having served as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Prime Psychiatry in Frisco and Changes McKinney in McKinney, Texas. She excels in conducting thorough assessments, managing cases effectively, and creating customized treatment plans. Before specializing in psychiatry, Christienne spent nearly eight years at Texas Health Resources in Arlington, progressing from a Mental Health Technician to Charge Nurse in the Behavioral Health Unit. She earned her MSN from Walden University, focusing on Psychiatric Mental Health, and a BSN from La Consolacion College in Manila.
(469) 771-1589 View (469) 771-1589
Photo of Dr. Zishan Khan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zishan Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Dr. Zishan Khan is board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. Dr. Khan primarily treats children, adolescents, and young adults suffering from ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues that cause hindrances. He works with patients of various cultural and professional backgrounds to help them improve their lives and conquer their struggles. Dr. Khan’s focus is to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Every human is unique, with differing circumstances, motivations, experiences, and life factors.
Dr. Zishan Khan is board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. Dr. Khan primarily treats children, adolescents, and young adults suffering from ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues that cause hindrances. He works with patients of various cultural and professional backgrounds to help them improve their lives and conquer their struggles. Dr. Khan’s focus is to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Every human is unique, with differing circumstances, motivations, experiences, and life factors.
(855) 976-2039 View (855) 976-2039
Photo of Ranie Meyer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ranie Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I believe in a holistic, patient-centered, and non-judgmental approach to mental healthcare. I provide specialized care for individuals struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, attention/focus challenges, bipolar, and trauma. My approach extends beyond traditional psychiatry by integrating methods that address both the mind and body. By focusing on the root causes of symptoms, I tailor treatments to meet your unique needs.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I believe in a holistic, patient-centered, and non-judgmental approach to mental healthcare. I provide specialized care for individuals struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, attention/focus challenges, bipolar, and trauma. My approach extends beyond traditional psychiatry by integrating methods that address both the mind and body. By focusing on the root causes of symptoms, I tailor treatments to meet your unique needs.
(903) 213-9740 View (903) 213-9740
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 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 Bernice Fomunung, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bernice Fomunung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Hello, are you dealing with complex trauma symptoms like intrusive thoughts, anxiety, depression, flashbacks, isolating, sleepless nights, feelings of overwhelm, hopelessness, loss of your concept of self, suicidal ideation? Are you tired of opening up to providers and never really feeling heard or understood? If yes, you’ve come to the right place. I treat an array of mental health disorders but I am particularly passionate about serving those who are dealing or have dealt with relational trauma; divorcees, abusive marriages and survivors of domestic violence.
Hello, are you dealing with complex trauma symptoms like intrusive thoughts, anxiety, depression, flashbacks, isolating, sleepless nights, feelings of overwhelm, hopelessness, loss of your concept of self, suicidal ideation? Are you tired of opening up to providers and never really feeling heard or understood? If yes, you’ve come to the right place. I treat an array of mental health disorders but I am particularly passionate about serving those who are dealing or have dealt with relational trauma; divorcees, abusive marriages and survivors of domestic violence.
(469) 523-2151 View (469) 523-2151
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 Parker, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide my patients with a well-rounded approach to meet their individual needs. I treat a broad range of mental health disorders through medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide my patients with a well-rounded approach to meet their individual needs. I treat a broad range of mental health disorders through medication management.
(214) 785-6612 View (214) 785-6612
Photo of Milka Kamau, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Milka Kamau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
(214) 494-2131 View (214) 494-2131
Photo of Edna Karina Villegas, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Edna Karina Villegas
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Edna Villegas is a bilingual Physician Assistant currently seeing Psychiatric patients in the North Dallas area. She believes in inclusivity in her medical management and provides a collaborative approach with her patients. She strives to provide more accessible mental healthcare by seeing patients from a wide variety of age groups so she can better help serve her community. She has always had a passion for mental health and is hoping to bring more awareness to this common issue so more people may seek out the help that they need.
Edna Villegas is a bilingual Physician Assistant currently seeing Psychiatric patients in the North Dallas area. She believes in inclusivity in her medical management and provides a collaborative approach with her patients. She strives to provide more accessible mental healthcare by seeing patients from a wide variety of age groups so she can better help serve her community. She has always had a passion for mental health and is hoping to bring more awareness to this common issue so more people may seek out the help that they need.
(214) 624-6029 View (214) 624-6029
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 Shalice McKnight - Dr. McKnight | The Lighthouse of Frisco, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. McKnight | The Lighthouse of Frisco
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75036
The Lighthouse of Frisco, one of North Texas' premiere Pediatric Mental Health practices, is dedicated to helping families and youth (5-19yrs) navigate their mental health challenges, avert crisis, cultivate identify, and to live with legacy in mind. We are obsessed with breaking down barriers to care through the education of families, children, and their communities to position future generations for mental health wellness and success.
The Lighthouse of Frisco, one of North Texas' premiere Pediatric Mental Health practices, is dedicated to helping families and youth (5-19yrs) navigate their mental health challenges, avert crisis, cultivate identify, and to live with legacy in mind. We are obsessed with breaking down barriers to care through the education of families, children, and their communities to position future generations for mental health wellness and success.
(972) 764-8855 View (972) 764-8855
Photo of Jacinta Madu - GOFAN Healthcare Services - Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
GOFAN Healthcare Services - Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently practicing in Frisco TX. 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 a board-certified child, adolescent and adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently practicing in Frisco TX. 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.
(469) 457-3282 View (469) 457-3282
Photo of Aparna Iyer, MD, Psychiatrist
Aparna Iyer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Not accepting new clients
I firmly believe in the therapeutic value of trusting and respectful relationship with my patient. With a holistic, non-judgmental and gentle approach, I focus my efforts on getting to understand the patient prior to formulating a treatment plan. My approach is thorough, exploring a patient's biological, psychological and social factors before determining the next best step, which may or may not include medications. I treat all adult mental health illnesses with a special interest in women's mental health, including those patients who are pregnant and postpartum. Follow us on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aparnaiyermd
I firmly believe in the therapeutic value of trusting and respectful relationship with my patient. With a holistic, non-judgmental and gentle approach, I focus my efforts on getting to understand the patient prior to formulating a treatment plan. My approach is thorough, exploring a patient's biological, psychological and social factors before determining the next best step, which may or may not include medications. I treat all adult mental health illnesses with a special interest in women's mental health, including those patients who are pregnant and postpartum. Follow us on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aparnaiyermd
(972) 362-1867 View (972) 362-1867
Photo of Rosemond Ijioma, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse
Rosemond Ijioma
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Rosemond Ijioma, DNP, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping clients across Texas by providing a multifaceted approach to mental health care that emphasizes empathy, practical support, and tailored professional strategies. Serving patients of all ages, from adolescents to seniors, Rosemond creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Her commitment to establishing trust and respect forms the foundation of her therapeutic relationships, allowing her to develop personalized treatment plans that meet each client's unique needs.
Rosemond Ijioma, DNP, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping clients across Texas by providing a multifaceted approach to mental health care that emphasizes empathy, practical support, and tailored professional strategies. Serving patients of all ages, from adolescents to seniors, Rosemond creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Her commitment to establishing trust and respect forms the foundation of her therapeutic relationships, allowing her to develop personalized treatment plans that meet each client's unique needs.
(855) 628-5301 View (855) 628-5301
Photo of Writtika Roy, MD, Psychiatrist
Writtika Roy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75035
In addition to providing standard treatment of mental illnesses with medication and psychotherapy, I like to help my patients become artists of their own lives. Our minds are greater than our mental illness, and we are greater than our minds. At the same time, we have to be honest about the negative effects of a mental illness in our lives, and not delay remedies which can contain, manage, and even remove the dysfunction. Accepting the reality of an illness, but not letting an illness limit our happiness, requires conscious management. This, my patients can count on me to provide.
In addition to providing standard treatment of mental illnesses with medication and psychotherapy, I like to help my patients become artists of their own lives. Our minds are greater than our mental illness, and we are greater than our minds. At the same time, we have to be honest about the negative effects of a mental illness in our lives, and not delay remedies which can contain, manage, and even remove the dysfunction. Accepting the reality of an illness, but not letting an illness limit our happiness, requires conscious management. This, my patients can count on me to provide.
(469) 336-3283 View (469) 336-3283
Photo of Jolyn Allen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jolyn Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75033
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
(469) 535-6563 View (469) 535-6563
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 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 Adeleye Ogunlade, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adeleye Ogunlade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
(214) 571-7130 View (214) 571-7130
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% ADHD
79% Medication Management
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.