Psychiatrists in Iola, TX

Photo of Krystal Kalt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krystal Kalt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Iola, TX 77861
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
(346) 476-4527 View (346) 476-4527

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Costlow, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Costlow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802
Michelle has almost 15 years of nursing experience in various settings. We are proud of her dedicated service to her community members. She is caring, compassionate, and empathetic. We would also like to thank her for her service in the United States Air Force. She has a lot of life experience and clinical expertise to share with the world. Thank you for coming aboard. We love your passion!
Michelle has almost 15 years of nursing experience in various settings. We are proud of her dedicated service to her community members. She is caring, compassionate, and empathetic. We would also like to thank her for her service in the United States Air Force. She has a lot of life experience and clinical expertise to share with the world. Thank you for coming aboard. We love your passion!
(979) 271-6881 View (979) 271-6881
Photo of Ijeoma Ononenyi, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Ononenyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77803  (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
(214) 949-8061 View (214) 949-8061
Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840  (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
(210) 981-6747 View (210) 981-6747
Photo of David M Dranetz, MD, Psychiatrist
David M Dranetz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
I have been a Psychiatrist for about 30 years. I have treated patients in a variety of settings, including general hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical school faculty, addiction treatment centers, community mental health centers, and Psychiatric hospitals. My training was extensive in both medication management and psychotherapy, and my experience in all settings is that patients have the best outcome when patient are willing to work collaboratively on identifying stressors, creating treatment goals, building of personal strengths and insights, with medication being a tool in this process.
I have been a Psychiatrist for about 30 years. I have treated patients in a variety of settings, including general hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical school faculty, addiction treatment centers, community mental health centers, and Psychiatric hospitals. My training was extensive in both medication management and psychotherapy, and my experience in all settings is that patients have the best outcome when patient are willing to work collaboratively on identifying stressors, creating treatment goals, building of personal strengths and insights, with medication being a tool in this process.
(979) 201-8794 View (979) 201-8794
Photo of Dr. Oluwatosin Adebiyi - Mind Connection Behavioral Health, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Connection Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77843
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME***Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME***Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
(281) 957-6114 View (281) 957-6114
Photo of Belen Ramos, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Belen Ramos
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77842
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
(210) 880-3854 View (210) 880-3854
Photo of Anne-Marie Odo Tms, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anne-Marie Odo Tms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77840
Dr. Anne-Marie Odo DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, ASN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Small steps big changes Semper healthcare Treatment Center provides professionally supervised Opiate Addiction maintenance with the use of Methadone as well as Suboxone. Dr. Odo values interdisciplinary clinical practice and inter-professional collaboration for a whole person, patient-centered approach to health and healthcare. “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it”. (Proverb 3:27)"
Dr. Anne-Marie Odo DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, ASN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Small steps big changes Semper healthcare Treatment Center provides professionally supervised Opiate Addiction maintenance with the use of Methadone as well as Suboxone. Dr. Odo values interdisciplinary clinical practice and inter-professional collaboration for a whole person, patient-centered approach to health and healthcare. “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it”. (Proverb 3:27)"
(214) 466-6786 View (214) 466-6786
Photo of Billie Morgan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Billie Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802
Not accepting new clients
I have been working in the field of psychiatry for over 20 years. I enjoy working with my clients to help improve their lives. I am holistic and believe that everything about you is a part of your puzzle. We will work together to form specific plans and goals to meet your needs, i.e., medication management, therapy, or alternative treatments, etc. I work with ages 5 and up. We take insurances and are working to expand our insurers. It is important that everyone have access to services. We see patients in person in Bryan, TX. I am licensed in TX/CO/NM/WA.
I have been working in the field of psychiatry for over 20 years. I enjoy working with my clients to help improve their lives. I am holistic and believe that everything about you is a part of your puzzle. We will work together to form specific plans and goals to meet your needs, i.e., medication management, therapy, or alternative treatments, etc. I work with ages 5 and up. We take insurances and are working to expand our insurers. It is important that everyone have access to services. We see patients in person in Bryan, TX. I am licensed in TX/CO/NM/WA.
(979) 201-8969 View (979) 201-8969
Photo of Daniella Gavito, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniella Gavito
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
I offer high quality evaluations and treatment for young adults, adolescents, and children. Mental health problems often start in childhood and continue on into adulthood. Left untreated, mental health problems can affect social interactions, school performance, job performance, health, self image, and quality of life. Getting the correct diagnosis and treatment early on is crucial. All too often I see people misdiagnosed and on treatments that are not working. I have had excellent training to identify the correct diagnosis and apply evidenced based treatment. I also use rating scales to identify symptoms and track progress.
I offer high quality evaluations and treatment for young adults, adolescents, and children. Mental health problems often start in childhood and continue on into adulthood. Left untreated, mental health problems can affect social interactions, school performance, job performance, health, self image, and quality of life. Getting the correct diagnosis and treatment early on is crucial. All too often I see people misdiagnosed and on treatments that are not working. I have had excellent training to identify the correct diagnosis and apply evidenced based treatment. I also use rating scales to identify symptoms and track progress.
(859) 710-8916 View (859) 710-8916
Photo of Omowunmi Ojo - Kindercare behavioral health services LLC, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kindercare behavioral health services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77841  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with life's challenges, feeling isolated and unfulfilled? Are you dealing with stress from past trauma? Are you struggling with persistent emotional turmoil? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, and mental health issues? If so, you're not alone; call for help and the path toward healing and resilience. KinderCare behavioral health services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer specialized expertise in addressing a wide range of psychological concerns. We provide personalized, evidence-based care to manage mental illness and meet the needs of our patients.
Are you grappling with life's challenges, feeling isolated and unfulfilled? Are you dealing with stress from past trauma? Are you struggling with persistent emotional turmoil? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, and mental health issues? If so, you're not alone; call for help and the path toward healing and resilience. KinderCare behavioral health services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer specialized expertise in addressing a wide range of psychological concerns. We provide personalized, evidence-based care to manage mental illness and meet the needs of our patients.
(936) 296-3052 View (936) 296-3052
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bryan, TX 77802
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(979) 316-9889 View (979) 316-9889
Photo of Shirley Smith - JLyle Medical Clinic, PLLC, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
JLyle Medical Clinic, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77845
We are expanding in Texas and you can reach me by calling: 1 (786) 755-1863 or Intake+Shirley21752
We are expanding in Texas and you can reach me by calling: 1 (786) 755-1863 or Intake+Shirley21752
(979) 200-6446 View (979) 200-6446
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
View
Photo of Jennifer Brock-Garcia, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Jennifer Brock-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77840  (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
(512) 359-3575 View (512) 359-3575
Photo of Jim Simon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jim Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802  (Online Only)
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
(979) 406-5618 View (979) 406-5618
Photo of Dr. Edmund Munde, DNP, PMHNP-B, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Edmund Munde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77845
Hi, I’m Edmund Munde, and I’m excited to support you at Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). I’m currently accepting new patients with appointments available soon. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, mood swings, life changes, or substance use, you're not alone. I specialize in treating conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar, and Schizophrenia. My patients say I have a bubbly personality and a good sense of humor, which I bring to our sessions. I make sure you're heard, even outside of appointments, and I want our sessions to feel like talking to a friend. If you're not smiling by the end, I haven’t done my job.
Hi, I’m Edmund Munde, and I’m excited to support you at Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). I’m currently accepting new patients with appointments available soon. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, mood swings, life changes, or substance use, you're not alone. I specialize in treating conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar, and Schizophrenia. My patients say I have a bubbly personality and a good sense of humor, which I bring to our sessions. I make sure you're heard, even outside of appointments, and I want our sessions to feel like talking to a friend. If you're not smiling by the end, I haven’t done my job.
(832) 307-0167 View (832) 307-0167
Photo of Omar Masihuddin (Addiction Treatment), PA-C, Physician Assistant
Omar Masihuddin (Addiction Treatment)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(979) 475-2693 View (979) 475-2693
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77840  (Online Only)
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
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Photo of Tina Chapman, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tina Chapman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802  (Online Only)
Tina is a board certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health. She is committed to providing individualized, culturally responsive care. She believes in meeting you where you are and appreciates the unique values and experiences that help define your journey. Tina prioritizes collaboration and values your insight. She looks forward to helping you define and achieve your wellness goals.
Tina is a board certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health. She is committed to providing individualized, culturally responsive care. She believes in meeting you where you are and appreciates the unique values and experiences that help define your journey. Tina prioritizes collaboration and values your insight. She looks forward to helping you define and achieve your wellness goals.
(210) 864-5824 View (210) 864-5824

See more therapy options for Iola

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Iola, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Iola, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Iola, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Iola?

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.