Psychiatrists in Garden Ridge, TX

With 25 years of experience in healthcare, I deeply value human connection. Each person has their own story and unique experiences that shape who they are. Recognizing these differences is essential for creating a personalized care plan. By fostering a therapeutic relationship with my clients, I aim to understand their stories and help them overcome challenges. My goal is to assist clients in finding meaning and purpose, enhancing their quality of life, and achieving contentment.
With 25 years of experience in healthcare, I deeply value human connection. Each person has their own story and unique experiences that shape who they are. Recognizing these differences is essential for creating a personalized care plan. By fostering a therapeutic relationship with my clients, I aim to understand their stories and help them overcome challenges. My goal is to assist clients in finding meaning and purpose, enhancing their quality of life, and achieving contentment.

Dr. Whitney H. Mitchell is psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in New Braunfels, Texas with 20 years of experience in psychiatric medicine. She is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a strong foundation in evidence-based care as well as psychodynamic psychotherapy. She is passionate about lifelong learning and continually expands her knowledge in the fields of happiness science, psychology, religion, anthropology, gender, and sexuality. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and issues related to sexual, personality, and relational problems.
Dr. Whitney H. Mitchell is psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in New Braunfels, Texas with 20 years of experience in psychiatric medicine. She is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a strong foundation in evidence-based care as well as psychodynamic psychotherapy. She is passionate about lifelong learning and continually expands her knowledge in the fields of happiness science, psychology, religion, anthropology, gender, and sexuality. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and issues related to sexual, personality, and relational problems.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

I provide Opioid addiction treatment, painkiller addiction treatment, and detox. See our website (www.newbraunfelspsychiatry.com).
I provide Opioid addiction treatment, painkiller addiction treatment, and detox. See our website (www.newbraunfelspsychiatry.com).

Perhaps you wonder if medication would improve your mental health. And, you have questions - totally understandable! When working with me, you can expect a safe, and collaborative environment where your concerns are validated. With many years of experience in mental health, I specialize in treating adults across the lifespan. My expertise spans a range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and bipolar disorder. As a board-certified Physician Assistant with added qualifications in Psychiatry, I provide evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Perhaps you wonder if medication would improve your mental health. And, you have questions - totally understandable! When working with me, you can expect a safe, and collaborative environment where your concerns are validated. With many years of experience in mental health, I specialize in treating adults across the lifespan. My expertise spans a range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and bipolar disorder. As a board-certified Physician Assistant with added qualifications in Psychiatry, I provide evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

As a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner, we are working hard and dedicating our lives to making the lives of others a priority. We work closely with clients to achieve mental wellness and a new beginning. No two people are the same and we treat patients according to their needs. We will provide treatment specifically for you with the utmost respect and trust. We will work as a team to get you the best outcome and treatment modality.
As a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner, we are working hard and dedicating our lives to making the lives of others a priority. We work closely with clients to achieve mental wellness and a new beginning. No two people are the same and we treat patients according to their needs. We will provide treatment specifically for you with the utmost respect and trust. We will work as a team to get you the best outcome and treatment modality.

I Provide early morning sessions. Jamal believes that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Jamal Daher is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission for Certification of Physician Assistants and is licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners. Jamal completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2019. He also holds a Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio.
I Provide early morning sessions. Jamal believes that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Jamal Daher is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission for Certification of Physician Assistants and is licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners. Jamal completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2019. He also holds a Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio.

I offer medication management for people dealing with mood disorders, like depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia and other psychiatric conditions—especially when other health issues make treatment more complex. I take the time to get your medications right and make sure they’re working for you.
My approach blends traditional and integrative options, always tailored to your goals. If you're looking for a provider who listens, explains things clearly, and works with you to find what helps, I’m here for you.
I offer medication management for people dealing with mood disorders, like depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia and other psychiatric conditions—especially when other health issues make treatment more complex. I take the time to get your medications right and make sure they’re working for you.
My approach blends traditional and integrative options, always tailored to your goals. If you're looking for a provider who listens, explains things clearly, and works with you to find what helps, I’m here for you.

Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Dr. Brandi Milmo is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Antonio. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the physician-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Dr. Brandi Milmo is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Antonio. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the physician-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.

I am here to help your child facing behavioral, emotional, or psychological challenges. Your child might be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions. I understand, as a parent, you are seeking compassionate and effective care to help manage your child's symptoms and improve their overall well-being. I provide a collaborative, supportive environment where you and your child feel understood and empowered to reach your child's full potential. Your ultimate goal is to achieve mental and emotional stability, academic success, and improved family dynamics and I am here to help on that journey.
I am here to help your child facing behavioral, emotional, or psychological challenges. Your child might be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions. I understand, as a parent, you are seeking compassionate and effective care to help manage your child's symptoms and improve their overall well-being. I provide a collaborative, supportive environment where you and your child feel understood and empowered to reach your child's full potential. Your ultimate goal is to achieve mental and emotional stability, academic success, and improved family dynamics and I am here to help on that journey.

My approach to treating patients starts with getting to know your life experience that started as a small child and has led you on your current trajectory in life. This leads to accurate diagnostics so that appropriate evidence based psychiatric care can be provided. I have the special privilege of being with a group (Family Care Center) that provides many great mental health resources under one roof including a team of skilled therapists and access modern technology like TMS. I look forward to working closely with my patients to come to a shared decision of what treatment best suites their unique circumstances.
My approach to treating patients starts with getting to know your life experience that started as a small child and has led you on your current trajectory in life. This leads to accurate diagnostics so that appropriate evidence based psychiatric care can be provided. I have the special privilege of being with a group (Family Care Center) that provides many great mental health resources under one roof including a team of skilled therapists and access modern technology like TMS. I look forward to working closely with my patients to come to a shared decision of what treatment best suites their unique circumstances.

Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.

Arturo Freyre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Not accepting new clients
Hello and thank you for looking at this page. A few things to know, I offer sincere and collaborative care. I want each of my patients to be able to engage in honest communication geared towards improving your mental health and quality of life. I work with all ages starting at age 9 and treat most psychiatric issues.
Hello and thank you for looking at this page. A few things to know, I offer sincere and collaborative care. I want each of my patients to be able to engage in honest communication geared towards improving your mental health and quality of life. I work with all ages starting at age 9 and treat most psychiatric issues.

You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck in your thoughts, or just not like yourself, you’re in the right place. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide thoughtful, evidence-based care to help you feel better—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma-related challenges, we’ll work together to create a treatment plan that feels empowering and effective.
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck in your thoughts, or just not like yourself, you’re in the right place. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide thoughtful, evidence-based care to help you feel better—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma-related challenges, we’ll work together to create a treatment plan that feels empowering and effective.

Accepting new patients! Initial consultation is free and intake (first full appointment) is $200. He serves the people of Colorado, Texas, Indiana, Alabama, Pennsylvania, and Utah. He specializes in helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD, but can treat other mental health afflictions as well (see list for the most commonly treated conditions). Dr. James works via telehealth to the above listed states, as well as in person at his clinic, Rivendell Health, in Colorado Springs, CO. He completed medical school at Texas A&M School of Medicine and psychiatric residency at UT Health in San Antonio.
Accepting new patients! Initial consultation is free and intake (first full appointment) is $200. He serves the people of Colorado, Texas, Indiana, Alabama, Pennsylvania, and Utah. He specializes in helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD, but can treat other mental health afflictions as well (see list for the most commonly treated conditions). Dr. James works via telehealth to the above listed states, as well as in person at his clinic, Rivendell Health, in Colorado Springs, CO. He completed medical school at Texas A&M School of Medicine and psychiatric residency at UT Health in San Antonio.

You may feel anxious, low, or overwhelmed, especially during life transitions or periods of stress. You may have felt dismissed or misunderstood when seeking help in the past. Whether it's mood swings, poor sleep, or persistent worry, you want answers, support, and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel like yourself again: clear, grounded, and emotionally well, so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
You may feel anxious, low, or overwhelmed, especially during life transitions or periods of stress. You may have felt dismissed or misunderstood when seeking help in the past. Whether it's mood swings, poor sleep, or persistent worry, you want answers, support, and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel like yourself again: clear, grounded, and emotionally well, so you can move forward with confidence and ease.

Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.

My name is Obehi Etinfoh (Pronounced: Obey-he), and I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. It is a privilege to serve the community where I grew up and to provide quality mental health care to individuals across the state of Texas. I offer compassionate, patient-centered psychiatric care for individuals ages 16 and up. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and PTSD, with a particular focus on supporting clients through life transitions and emotional challenges. My care is rooted in evidence-based medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation.
My name is Obehi Etinfoh (Pronounced: Obey-he), and I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. It is a privilege to serve the community where I grew up and to provide quality mental health care to individuals across the state of Texas. I offer compassionate, patient-centered psychiatric care for individuals ages 16 and up. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and PTSD, with a particular focus on supporting clients through life transitions and emotional challenges. My care is rooted in evidence-based medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation.

Affective Mental Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
New Braunfels, TX 78130
At Affective Mental Wellness, three fully licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners are able to meet your mental health needs in the state of Texas. We are experienced in working with a diverse population of patients. We are able to provide high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-focused care for patients between ages 2 to 999 years old. Focusing on the whole person, we, with the patient develop individualized treatment plans.
At Affective Mental Wellness, three fully licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners are able to meet your mental health needs in the state of Texas. We are experienced in working with a diverse population of patients. We are able to provide high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-focused care for patients between ages 2 to 999 years old. Focusing on the whole person, we, with the patient develop individualized treatment plans.

At Northridge Behavioral Health, the goal is to provide high quality mental healthcare to each patient that is individualized and accessible. Our purpose is to assist every person with their mental health journey through Anxiety, ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bipolar Disorder, Bulimia, Depression, Panic Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Schizophrenia, or Sleep Disorder to overcome these challenges. The clinic offers inspiration of hope and empowerment to thrive in all aspects of life.
At Northridge Behavioral Health, the goal is to provide high quality mental healthcare to each patient that is individualized and accessible. Our purpose is to assist every person with their mental health journey through Anxiety, ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bipolar Disorder, Bulimia, Depression, Panic Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Schizophrenia, or Sleep Disorder to overcome these challenges. The clinic offers inspiration of hope and empowerment to thrive in all aspects of life.

Seeking mental health support can be intimidating, especially when it comes to mental health medicines. My focus is on a holistic approach including complementary and alternative approaches in combination with mental health medicine. I take a collaborative approach and we design a treatment plan together.
I love working with all ages and genders. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression and am comfortable with high acuity. I also enjoy working with those who identify as neurodivergent.
I offer:
- Gender Affirming Surgery Evaluations
- Evaluations for Those Seeking Asylum
- Medication Management
Seeking mental health support can be intimidating, especially when it comes to mental health medicines. My focus is on a holistic approach including complementary and alternative approaches in combination with mental health medicine. I take a collaborative approach and we design a treatment plan together.
I love working with all ages and genders. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression and am comfortable with high acuity. I also enjoy working with those who identify as neurodivergent.
I offer:
- Gender Affirming Surgery Evaluations
- Evaluations for Those Seeking Asylum
- Medication Management
See more therapy options for Garden Ridge
Nearby Searches for Garden Ridge
- Alamo Heights
- Boerne
- Bulverde
- Helotes
- Leon Valley
- New Braunfels
- San Antonio
- San Marcos
- Schertz
- Seguin
- Shavano Park
- Wimberley
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Garden Ridge, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Garden Ridge, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Garden Ridge, TX see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Garden Ridge?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.