Psychiatrists in Kendall County, TX

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Photo of Vanessa L Vela, Psychiatrist, MD
Vanessa L Vela
Psychiatrist, MD
Boerne, TX 78006
I have been practicing for 19 years and continue to look forward to helping others find the proper treatment for their needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. I understand that each of my patients have unique strengths. I am committed to providing genuine, caring and confidential care for professionals, families and children. I am a firm believer in change and hold an optimistic view in helping others. I often find that people have gone without treatment for various reasons but I am here to help them find the appropriate direction.
I have been practicing for 19 years and continue to look forward to helping others find the proper treatment for their needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults. I understand that each of my patients have unique strengths. I am committed to providing genuine, caring and confidential care for professionals, families and children. I am a firm believer in change and hold an optimistic view in helping others. I often find that people have gone without treatment for various reasons but I am here to help them find the appropriate direction.
(830) 254-5217 View (830) 254-5217
Photo of Cynthia Hathaway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Cynthia Hathaway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Boerne, TX 78006
Accepting new patients! I treat adolescents ages 14 and up as well as adults struggling with mental health disorders such as depression, Alcohol Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety diorders, and ADHD to name a few. I have been a nurse for over 27 years, and my multiple deployments as an Air Force Flight Nurse and intensive care nurse have given me a wide range of experience in caring for others who have endured significant physical and mental trauma. My office is a private environment designed to give you compassionate care and implement a treatment plan to help you to live your best life of mental health and wellness.
Accepting new patients! I treat adolescents ages 14 and up as well as adults struggling with mental health disorders such as depression, Alcohol Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety diorders, and ADHD to name a few. I have been a nurse for over 27 years, and my multiple deployments as an Air Force Flight Nurse and intensive care nurse have given me a wide range of experience in caring for others who have endured significant physical and mental trauma. My office is a private environment designed to give you compassionate care and implement a treatment plan to help you to live your best life of mental health and wellness.
(830) 423-5640 View (830) 423-5640
Photo of Jennifer Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jennifer Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Boerne, TX 78006
I am a licensed a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner interested in providing comprehensive, compassionate and exceptional mental health care for adults and adolescents. I incorporate both psychiatric medicine and psychotherapy into my practice. I employ evidence-based practice unified with clinical experience, education, and patient observation to provide the best treatment on a patient-by- patient basis. I believe in treating all patients with the dignity and respect they deserve and strive to build excellent rapport with both the patient and their family.
I am a licensed a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner interested in providing comprehensive, compassionate and exceptional mental health care for adults and adolescents. I incorporate both psychiatric medicine and psychotherapy into my practice. I employ evidence-based practice unified with clinical experience, education, and patient observation to provide the best treatment on a patient-by- patient basis. I believe in treating all patients with the dignity and respect they deserve and strive to build excellent rapport with both the patient and their family.
(210) 899-7176 View (210) 899-7176
Photo of Tara Arevalo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tara Arevalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Boerne, TX 78006
Not accepting new clients
We offer personalized and effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We offer telehealth and in-office appointments as needed. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again.
We offer personalized and effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We offer telehealth and in-office appointments as needed. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again.
(830) 476-7941 View (830) 476-7941
Photo of Jerilyn Town, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jerilyn Town
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Boerne, TX 78006
The ideal client is motivated to seek help. This patient may struggle with a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. They want to regain control over their lives and alleviate the distress caused by their mental health conditions. Their desire for help often stems from their symptoms' impact on their personal, social, and professional lives. Their goals are typically centered around achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing overall quality of life. They may also seek to develop healthier coping mechanisms and better interpersonal relationships.
The ideal client is motivated to seek help. This patient may struggle with a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. They want to regain control over their lives and alleviate the distress caused by their mental health conditions. Their desire for help often stems from their symptoms' impact on their personal, social, and professional lives. Their goals are typically centered around achieving emotional stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing overall quality of life. They may also seek to develop healthier coping mechanisms and better interpersonal relationships.
(832) 281-5357 View (832) 281-5357
Photo of Yajaira Yuri Paparone, Psychiatrist, MD
Yajaira Yuri Paparone
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Paparone is an experienced psychiatrist specializing in family systems, attachment disorders, PTSD, treatment resistant depression, ADHD, post partum depression and adjustment disorders. Dr. Paparone has trained and worked closely alongside experts in the field of psychoanalytic therapy, family therapy and psychopharmacology. She has over a decade of treating patients in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Dr. Paparone is an experienced psychiatrist specializing in family systems, attachment disorders, PTSD, treatment resistant depression, ADHD, post partum depression and adjustment disorders. Dr. Paparone has trained and worked closely alongside experts in the field of psychoanalytic therapy, family therapy and psychopharmacology. She has over a decade of treating patients in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
(210) 934-1105 View (210) 934-1105
Photo of Monique Valle Gonzalez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMPHNP-
Monique Valle Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMPHNP-
Boerne, TX 78006
My objective is to assist individuals facing mental health challenges by providing a safe, supportive environment that encourages comfort and openness throughout their treatment and recovery process. I am committed to supporting each person's ongoing personal development and well-being.
My objective is to assist individuals facing mental health challenges by providing a safe, supportive environment that encourages comfort and openness throughout their treatment and recovery process. I am committed to supporting each person's ongoing personal development and well-being.
(726) 230-8060 View (726) 230-8060
Photo of Lovette Okoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Lovette Okoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(325) 237-2759 View (325) 237-2759
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(830) 396-5174 View (830) 396-5174
Photo of Christine Joy, Psychiatrist, MD
Christine Joy
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Christine Joy is a double board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist currently accepting new patients with same week availability. A San Antonio native and third-generation healthcare professional, Dr. Joy leads her psychiatric practice with the belief that the doctor-patient relationship is fundamental for healing. She has over ten years of experience, including expertise with elderly, medically-complex, and veteran populations.
Dr. Christine Joy is a double board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist currently accepting new patients with same week availability. A San Antonio native and third-generation healthcare professional, Dr. Joy leads her psychiatric practice with the belief that the doctor-patient relationship is fundamental for healing. She has over ten years of experience, including expertise with elderly, medically-complex, and veteran populations.
(210) 853-2397 View (210) 853-2397
Photo of John T Pichot, Psychiatrist, MD
John T Pichot
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(210) 871-1169 View (210) 871-1169
Photo of Lawrence Oke Jr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Lawrence Oke Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in both mental health and medical settings, I approach treatment holistically, considering the mind-body connection to support overall well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in both mental health and medical settings, I approach treatment holistically, considering the mind-body connection to support overall well-being.
(346) 536-3489 View (346) 536-3489
Photo of Dr. James T. Fuqua - Board Certified Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist, MD
Accepting new patients, Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, corporate transitions, PTSD and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible.
Accepting new patients, Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, corporate transitions, PTSD and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible.
(210) 880-2350 View (210) 880-2350
Photo of Christina Exum - Soulwork Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Soulwork Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Christina Exum and I am a therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from UT Health in San Antonio Texas and have been in practice since 2019. I am also an Integrative Nutritional Health Coach. I work at a deep level with individuals in therapy who want to break out of unhelpful patterns affecting their lives in order to awaken unrealized vitality, potential, and creativity. I prescribe psychiatric medications when needed.
Hello! My name is Christina Exum and I am a therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from UT Health in San Antonio Texas and have been in practice since 2019. I am also an Integrative Nutritional Health Coach. I work at a deep level with individuals in therapy who want to break out of unhelpful patterns affecting their lives in order to awaken unrealized vitality, potential, and creativity. I prescribe psychiatric medications when needed.
(830) 202-6276 View (830) 202-6276
Photo of Sarah Casola - Green Pastures Mental Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Green Pastures Mental Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or uncontrollable thoughts? Are mood swings or past trauma affecting you daily? At Green Pastures, we believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. We specialize in medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder & trauma. Our process begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand your unique needs. We provide education on evidence-based treatment options, empowering you to make informed decisions about your care. Our mission is to offer compassionate, individualized support as you navigate your path to mental health
Are you struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or uncontrollable thoughts? Are mood swings or past trauma affecting you daily? At Green Pastures, we believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. We specialize in medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder & trauma. Our process begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand your unique needs. We provide education on evidence-based treatment options, empowering you to make informed decisions about your care. Our mission is to offer compassionate, individualized support as you navigate your path to mental health
(830) 376-6180 View (830) 376-6180
Photo of Udo Chukwuocha - CopeWell Psychiatry & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
CopeWell Psychiatry & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Black, immigrant, and integrative psychiatric provider with over a decade of experience, I offer a unique perspective on mental health. I specialize in treating adult professionals navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep issues, ADHD, or stress. I understand that your struggles do not define you—they’re just one part of your story. My goal is to create a safe, judgment-free space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered on your journey toward healing. I am also passionate about supporting women struggling with PMDD/PMS, and BIPOC and immigrant communities, offering tailored approaches for your mental wellbeing.
As a Black, immigrant, and integrative psychiatric provider with over a decade of experience, I offer a unique perspective on mental health. I specialize in treating adult professionals navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep issues, ADHD, or stress. I understand that your struggles do not define you—they’re just one part of your story. My goal is to create a safe, judgment-free space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered on your journey toward healing. I am also passionate about supporting women struggling with PMDD/PMS, and BIPOC and immigrant communities, offering tailored approaches for your mental wellbeing.
(512) 399-1490 View (512) 399-1490
Photo of Yemi Ogunfeitimi - Valen Mental Health services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Valen Mental Health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
As a dedicated mental health professional, I take pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to my clients. My journey into psychiatry is rooted in a profound desire to empower individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe that every person deserves hope and the opportunity to reclaim their well-being. I am committed to advancing my skills and knowledge in psychiatry, with a particular interest in community mental health. I believe that access to compassionate care should be a right, not a privilege, and I am eager to contribute to initiatives that promote mental health awareness.
As a dedicated mental health professional, I take pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to my clients. My journey into psychiatry is rooted in a profound desire to empower individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe that every person deserves hope and the opportunity to reclaim their well-being. I am committed to advancing my skills and knowledge in psychiatry, with a particular interest in community mental health. I believe that access to compassionate care should be a right, not a privilege, and I am eager to contribute to initiatives that promote mental health awareness.
(726) 215-9785 View (726) 215-9785
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(210) 361-6840 View (210) 361-6840
Dia Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, FNP
Boerne, TX 78006
(830) 283-7718 View (830) 283-7718

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Emem Nkanga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Emem Nkanga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Austin, TX 78759
I am Emem Nkanga, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in nursing science from the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). I have over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, with the last three years in psychiatry. My extensive background spans various healthcare fields, including trauma, medical/ surgical, progressive/intermediate care, rehabilitation, and psychiatry. I dedicated my lifelong career to improving the well-being of individuals and communities.
I am Emem Nkanga, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in nursing science from the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). I have over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, with the last three years in psychiatry. My extensive background spans various healthcare fields, including trauma, medical/ surgical, progressive/intermediate care, rehabilitation, and psychiatry. I dedicated my lifelong career to improving the well-being of individuals and communities.
(972) 928-1083 View (972) 928-1083

See more therapy options for Kendall County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kendall County, TX

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Kendall County, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
95% Anxiety
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Bipolar Disorder
84% Trauma and PTSD
84% Medication Management
74% Stress

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
85% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Kendall County, TX see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kendall County?

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.