Psychiatrists in Irving, TX

Photo of Dr. Andrew Trinh - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Irving, TX 75038
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(469) 402-4266 View (469) 402-4266
Photo of Sheila Pryor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Sheila Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Sheila and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Texas. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Life coaching, Stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Sheila and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Texas. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Life coaching, Stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(469) 409-3781 View (469) 409-3781
Photo of Danielle Maskell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Danielle Maskell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Irving, TX 75038
Danielle Maskell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She has an ADN from Dallas County Community College District, a BSN from Grand Canyon University, and an MSN from the University of Texas at Arlington. Danielle has almost 30 years of bedside nursing providing care to people and families at some of their most difficult moments. In addition, life experiences have given her a unique perspective on the difficulties that can be associated with mental illness.
Danielle Maskell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She has an ADN from Dallas County Community College District, a BSN from Grand Canyon University, and an MSN from the University of Texas at Arlington. Danielle has almost 30 years of bedside nursing providing care to people and families at some of their most difficult moments. In addition, life experiences have given her a unique perspective on the difficulties that can be associated with mental illness.
(469) 620-8249 View (469) 620-8249
Photo of Kim Tubbs - Whole Life Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Whole Life Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN
2 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75038
Dr. Kim Tubbs, DNP - Whole Life Psychiatry - offering holistic psychiatry, medication management, yoga-based therapy, and energy psychology. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults who are ready to get to the bottom of why they are struggling. I take a holistic approach to psychiatry, looking to uncover the root of the problem. Together we will examine the situation and presenting symptoms to determine what course of action will be best. This may include medication, a change in diet, changes in environment, new coping skills, or all of the above. Please be aware that I do NOT prescribe stimulants such as Adderall/Vyvanse.
Dr. Kim Tubbs, DNP - Whole Life Psychiatry - offering holistic psychiatry, medication management, yoga-based therapy, and energy psychology. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults who are ready to get to the bottom of why they are struggling. I take a holistic approach to psychiatry, looking to uncover the root of the problem. Together we will examine the situation and presenting symptoms to determine what course of action will be best. This may include medication, a change in diet, changes in environment, new coping skills, or all of the above. Please be aware that I do NOT prescribe stimulants such as Adderall/Vyvanse.
(972) 992-7682 View (972) 992-7682
Photo of Nicholas Gregory Heyne, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicholas Gregory Heyne
Psychiatrist, MD
Irving, TX 75062
I am a triple board-certified, triple fellowship (adult, child/adolescent, addiction, & forensic psychiatry) trained physician. I am an educator to local residency/fellowship programs, as well as to local medical schools and universities. As a doctor of medicine (MD), my aim is to empower my patients through education, therapy, and when appropriate, medication management. My comprehensive background allows me the opportunity to address the struggles and suffering one endures through mental illness in a complete, caring, and evidence-based manner.
I am a triple board-certified, triple fellowship (adult, child/adolescent, addiction, & forensic psychiatry) trained physician. I am an educator to local residency/fellowship programs, as well as to local medical schools and universities. As a doctor of medicine (MD), my aim is to empower my patients through education, therapy, and when appropriate, medication management. My comprehensive background allows me the opportunity to address the struggles and suffering one endures through mental illness in a complete, caring, and evidence-based manner.
(972) 325-5904 View (972) 325-5904
Photo of Corey Spence, Psychiatrist, DO
Corey Spence
Psychiatrist, DO
Irving, TX 75038
Corey Spence is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from OSU Medical School and OSU Psychiatry Residency. Corey believes in treating the patient as a whole. In his spare time, Corey enjoys going to concerts, watching movies, and spending time with his cats.
Corey Spence is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from OSU Medical School and OSU Psychiatry Residency. Corey believes in treating the patient as a whole. In his spare time, Corey enjoys going to concerts, watching movies, and spending time with his cats.
(214) 299-5859 View (214) 299-5859
Photo of Grace Jedidah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Jedidah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We are all unique; as such, mental health care ought to be client-centered and tailored. Acceptance and commitment to delivering holistic care are my guiding principles. I am compassionate about empowering my clients with knowledge. With adequate education about mental health, my clients overcome the stigma that surrounds mental illness, and that remains a major barrier to seeking mental health care or adhering to much-needed treatment. My goal is to equip my clients with the knowledge for them to make informed choices that truly reflect and align with their core values.
We are all unique; as such, mental health care ought to be client-centered and tailored. Acceptance and commitment to delivering holistic care are my guiding principles. I am compassionate about empowering my clients with knowledge. With adequate education about mental health, my clients overcome the stigma that surrounds mental illness, and that remains a major barrier to seeking mental health care or adhering to much-needed treatment. My goal is to equip my clients with the knowledge for them to make informed choices that truly reflect and align with their core values.
(972) 325-7088 View (972) 325-7088
Photo of Andrew Trinh, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrew Trinh
Psychiatrist, MD
Irving, TX 75038
Dr. Andrew Trinh is a compassionate psychiatrist dedicated to treating patients with a personalized approach that prioritizes trust, empathy, and collaboration. He offers evidence-based care tailored to individual goals, specializing in conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. Dr. Trinh provides a safe, non-judgmental environment where patients are empowered to share openly, fostering lasting mental and emotional well-being. His holistic treatment approach includes medication management, psychotherapy, and various therapy modalities.
Dr. Andrew Trinh is a compassionate psychiatrist dedicated to treating patients with a personalized approach that prioritizes trust, empathy, and collaboration. He offers evidence-based care tailored to individual goals, specializing in conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. Dr. Trinh provides a safe, non-judgmental environment where patients are empowered to share openly, fostering lasting mental and emotional well-being. His holistic treatment approach includes medication management, psychotherapy, and various therapy modalities.
(469) 218-8887 View (469) 218-8887
Photo of Darleen Dansby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Darleen Dansby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or disconnected? You're not alone, and I'm here to help. In a safe and supportive space, we can explore your challenges together, gain meaningful insights, and develop practical coping strategies. Let's work on a personalized plan that builds your resilience, enhances your self-awareness, and helps you thrive in everyday life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or disconnected? You're not alone, and I'm here to help. In a safe and supportive space, we can explore your challenges together, gain meaningful insights, and develop practical coping strategies. Let's work on a personalized plan that builds your resilience, enhances your self-awareness, and helps you thrive in everyday life.
(346) 633-3151 View (346) 633-3151
Photo of Mayowa Omoyeni - Haven Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Haven Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Mayowa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. With over eight years of experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health care, I take an integrative, whole-person approach to treatment. I am also a mother and have personally experienced various life transitions, the joys and challenges of motherhood. I deeply understand the complexities of maternal mental health and the impact it can have on one’s mental well-being. I believe every individual deserves care tailored to their unique needs.
My name is Mayowa and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. With over eight years of experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health care, I take an integrative, whole-person approach to treatment. I am also a mother and have personally experienced various life transitions, the joys and challenges of motherhood. I deeply understand the complexities of maternal mental health and the impact it can have on one’s mental well-being. I believe every individual deserves care tailored to their unique needs.
(469) 336-6871 View (469) 336-6871
Photo of Innocent Omale - Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).
(682) 260-6713 View (682) 260-6713
Photo of Honorine Betah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Honorine Betah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Honorine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Texas. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, SAD and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Honorine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Texas. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, SAD and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(469) 480-1383 View (469) 480-1383
Photo of Emmanuella Edekobi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Emmanuella Edekobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
(505) 672-7660 View (505) 672-7660
Photo of Maximus Anitube, Psychiatrist, MD
Maximus Anitube
Psychiatrist, MD
Irving, TX 75062
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with extensive clinical training and experience across diverse areas of psychiatry. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults, offering compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. My practice emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on overall well-being and prescribing medications only when necessary. My goal is to empower clients by providing education, support, insight, and constructive feedback to help them navigate and overcome life’s challenges effectively, through collaboration and individualized care.
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with extensive clinical training and experience across diverse areas of psychiatry. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults, offering compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. My practice emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on overall well-being and prescribing medications only when necessary. My goal is to empower clients by providing education, support, insight, and constructive feedback to help them navigate and overcome life’s challenges effectively, through collaboration and individualized care.
(469) 327-1474 View (469) 327-1474
Photo of Honorine Betah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Honorine Betah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Honorine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, SAD and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Honorine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, SAD and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(206) 672-7861 View (206) 672-7861
Photo of Mona Jimenez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Mona Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Irving, TX 75038
Mona Jimenez is a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2020. She has over 13 years of experience as a nurse prior to being a nurse practitioner. She graduated from Walden University with a Master s Degree in Nursing.
Mona Jimenez is a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2020. She has over 13 years of experience as a nurse prior to being a nurse practitioner. She graduated from Walden University with a Master s Degree in Nursing.
(817) 242-9021 View (817) 242-9021
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Smink Achila, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience in mental health. I work with various clients across the lifespan who have a variety of issues revolving around mental health, with the goal of optimizing their functioning in the community. This has been my passion since high school, as my brother suffered from depression over the years, and nobody could understand him. During my rotations in various psychiatric hospitals, my connection to mental health was fortified.
I am Smink Achila, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience in mental health. I work with various clients across the lifespan who have a variety of issues revolving around mental health, with the goal of optimizing their functioning in the community. This has been my passion since high school, as my brother suffered from depression over the years, and nobody could understand him. During my rotations in various psychiatric hospitals, my connection to mental health was fortified.
(817) 631-1060 View (817) 631-1060
Photo of Simi Olushola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Simi Olushola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Online Only
As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, taking into account your unique background, experiences, and goals. I work closely with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and growth. If you're ready to take control of your mental health and embark on a journey towards wellness, I would be honored to be a part of your support system. We can work towards a brighter and healthier future. I am here to help you thrive. Let's start this journey together!
As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, taking into account your unique background, experiences, and goals. I work closely with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and growth. If you're ready to take control of your mental health and embark on a journey towards wellness, I would be honored to be a part of your support system. We can work towards a brighter and healthier future. I am here to help you thrive. Let's start this journey together!
(469) 283-5951 View (469) 283-5951
Photo of Dorothy Ndondi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Dorothy Ndondi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Accepting new clients now, same day appointments with weekend availability. We provide Telehealth services, accept self pay and insurances. Welcome to a non-judgmental environment where there is no biasness ! Meet Dorothy PMHNP-BC ( over 14 years experience in health care) who strives to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that considers their mental and emotional well-being. I'm dedicated and focused on providing you with high-quality initial evaluations, diagnosing, formulating treatment plan and continued medication management. My focus is on pre- teens, teens and adults.
Accepting new clients now, same day appointments with weekend availability. We provide Telehealth services, accept self pay and insurances. Welcome to a non-judgmental environment where there is no biasness ! Meet Dorothy PMHNP-BC ( over 14 years experience in health care) who strives to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that considers their mental and emotional well-being. I'm dedicated and focused on providing you with high-quality initial evaluations, diagnosing, formulating treatment plan and continued medication management. My focus is on pre- teens, teens and adults.
(469) 972-6384 View (469) 972-6384
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
(469) 609-6133 View (469) 609-6133

See more therapy options for Irving

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Irving, TX

50+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Irving, TX who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
95% Anxiety
93% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
81% ADHD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Cigna and Evernorth
96% Aetna
96% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Irving, TX see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Irving?

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.