Psychiatrists in Kirby, TX

Photo of Felicia Thomas, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Felicia Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Kirby, TX 78219  (Online Only)
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
(337) 242-7322 View (337) 242-7322

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of George Attobrah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George Attobrah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78215
NOW OFFERING ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. I offer quality and affordable mental health care with immediate appointments available. I assess and offer a detailed diagnostic evaluations for all mental disorders, and provides treatment plans that include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. You will have the direct access to personally talk to me on any issue. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders.
NOW OFFERING ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. I offer quality and affordable mental health care with immediate appointments available. I assess and offer a detailed diagnostic evaluations for all mental disorders, and provides treatment plans that include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. You will have the direct access to personally talk to me on any issue. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders.
(833) 240-4614 View (833) 240-4614
Photo of Racheal Kedze - Sehndem Behavioral Health Care Center , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sehndem Behavioral Health Care Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213
Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from living a happy and balanced life. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? At Sehndem Behavioral Health care Center, we strive to understand individuals and their symptoms within the context of their environments and relationships. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options on this journey to recovery.
Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from living a happy and balanced life. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? At Sehndem Behavioral Health care Center, we strive to understand individuals and their symptoms within the context of their environments and relationships. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options on this journey to recovery.
(210) 880-0429 View (210) 880-0429
Photo of Munira Jiwani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
(210) 972-8638 View (210) 972-8638
Photo of Everest Goldstein, PMHNP, APRN, MEd, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Everest Goldstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MEd, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204
Everest is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background in Functional Medicine and integrative wellness interventions. She deeply cares about each of her patients and devotes her time to working closely with each of them to address their individual needs. Knowing the importance of the brain-body connection, Everest addresses the body as a whole to optimize health and wellness. If you are struggling mentally, emotionally, or physically, Everest is here to help you regain your life.
Everest is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background in Functional Medicine and integrative wellness interventions. She deeply cares about each of her patients and devotes her time to working closely with each of them to address their individual needs. Knowing the importance of the brain-body connection, Everest addresses the body as a whole to optimize health and wellness. If you are struggling mentally, emotionally, or physically, Everest is here to help you regain your life.
(469) 564-3401 View (469) 564-3401
Photo of Margaret Betanco, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Betanco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Alamo Heights, TX 78209
Meg Betanco is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master Degree in Social Work with a Concentration in Clinical Services for Children and Families from The University of Denver, and a Master Degree in Nursing with Concentration of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Meg's approach to care is wholistic and patient centered. She seeks to join patients as a support in their journey to optimal wellness, as the patient defines it. Meg draws on her training as a social worker and a nurse practitioner to combine therapeutic modalities to personalize treatment.
Meg Betanco is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master Degree in Social Work with a Concentration in Clinical Services for Children and Families from The University of Denver, and a Master Degree in Nursing with Concentration of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Meg's approach to care is wholistic and patient centered. She seeks to join patients as a support in their journey to optimal wellness, as the patient defines it. Meg draws on her training as a social worker and a nurse practitioner to combine therapeutic modalities to personalize treatment.
(708) 840-8649 View (708) 840-8649
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, depression, or significant transitions take center stage. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and seek meaningful change. They are looking for compassionate care that understands their unique experiences and offers practical guidance for healing. Together, we will create a personalized plan that supports your needs and helps you move toward a balanced and fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive.
Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, depression, or significant transitions take center stage. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and seek meaningful change. They are looking for compassionate care that understands their unique experiences and offers practical guidance for healing. Together, we will create a personalized plan that supports your needs and helps you move toward a balanced and fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive.
(726) 227-3367 View (726) 227-3367
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Life’s challenges, whether they come from anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone looking for support and practical strategies to take control of their mental health. They are ready to make meaningful changes and want a personalized approach that addresses their unique needs. Together, we will create a plan that helps you regain balance, find peace, and move toward a more fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive and move forward with confidence.
Life’s challenges, whether they come from anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone looking for support and practical strategies to take control of their mental health. They are ready to make meaningful changes and want a personalized approach that addresses their unique needs. Together, we will create a plan that helps you regain balance, find peace, and move toward a more fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive and move forward with confidence.
(726) 227-2467 View (726) 227-2467
Photo of Ijeoma Ononenyi, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Ononenyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78223  (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.
(210) 526-0432 View (210) 526-0432
Photo of Tara Arevalo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara Arevalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78207
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 Farheen Makani - Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aura Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
(210) 864-8172 View (210) 864-8172
Photo of Megha Chadha, MD, Psychiatrist
Megha Chadha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
I have always been fascinated by how the brain works. Becoming a psychiatrist offered me an opportunity to learn more about the complexities of the human mind, while allowing me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities. I love to work with patients who take ownership of their health and actively collaborate with their treatment team to work towards achieving and maintaining a state of well-being that supports a fulfilling and healthy life. My working style with patients involves a collaborative approach, valuing the patient's input and involving them in the decision-making process.
I have always been fascinated by how the brain works. Becoming a psychiatrist offered me an opportunity to learn more about the complexities of the human mind, while allowing me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities. I love to work with patients who take ownership of their health and actively collaborate with their treatment team to work towards achieving and maintaining a state of well-being that supports a fulfilling and healthy life. My working style with patients involves a collaborative approach, valuing the patient's input and involving them in the decision-making process.
(512) 881-6860 View (512) 881-6860
Photo of Christina Vasquez, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, CARN-, AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Vasquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, CARN-, AP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I want to serve my community and help those in need of assistance with their mental health and or substance use disorder I offer an evidence based non- biased approach for all clients. My goal is to decrease the stigma associated with mental health.
I want to serve my community and help those in need of assistance with their mental health and or substance use disorder I offer an evidence based non- biased approach for all clients. My goal is to decrease the stigma associated with mental health.
(210) 972-2651 x1 View (210) 972-2651 x1
Photo of Ian M Crooks, MD, Psychiatrist
Ian M Crooks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
At Optimal Psychiatry, Dr. Crooks understands the profound impact mental health has on every aspect of life. Dr. Ian M Crooks, MD, is an ABPN Board Certified psychiatrist with 12 years of dedicated experience. His practice is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Dr. Crooks brings a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and a holistic approach to mental health care, ensuring every patient feels heard, understood, and supported. Dr. Crooks believes in a patient-centered approach, emphasizing individualized care and the latest advancements in psychiatric research and therapy.
At Optimal Psychiatry, Dr. Crooks understands the profound impact mental health has on every aspect of life. Dr. Ian M Crooks, MD, is an ABPN Board Certified psychiatrist with 12 years of dedicated experience. His practice is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Dr. Crooks brings a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and a holistic approach to mental health care, ensuring every patient feels heard, understood, and supported. Dr. Crooks believes in a patient-centered approach, emphasizing individualized care and the latest advancements in psychiatric research and therapy.
(512) 271-5156 View (512) 271-5156
Photo of Cloatee Surles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cloatee Surles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78239  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Autumn Health and Wellness with over two decades of experience in healthcare.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Autumn Health and Wellness with over two decades of experience in healthcare.
(726) 227-0643 View (726) 227-0643
Photo of Raquel Vallejo-Moore, MSHP, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Raquel Vallejo-Moore
Physician Assistant, MSHP, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
I am a Physician Assistant with Specialization in Psychiatry. My interest in Psychiatry was triggered due to my observation that mental health issues underlie a lot of the other medical issues that people deal with. I also observed that people around me did not seem to be getting compassionate care from their providers. I felt like patients are not being heard so I wanted to make a difference. I diagnose and treat PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.
I am a Physician Assistant with Specialization in Psychiatry. My interest in Psychiatry was triggered due to my observation that mental health issues underlie a lot of the other medical issues that people deal with. I also observed that people around me did not seem to be getting compassionate care from their providers. I felt like patients are not being heard so I wanted to make a difference. I diagnose and treat PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.
(726) 207-9860 View (726) 207-9860
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
(726) 204-5684 View (726) 204-5684
Photo of Delia Sanchez Patino, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Delia Sanchez Patino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
(210) 864-5947 View (210) 864-5947
Photo of Anthony Okafor, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Anthony Okafor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
(210) 964-3661 View (210) 964-3661
Photo of Dr. Ami Chatrath @ Wisemind, DO, MBA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ami Chatrath @ Wisemind
Psychiatrist, DO, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
(210) 940-3041 View (210) 940-3041

See more therapy options for Kirby

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kirby, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Kirby, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Chronic Pain

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Kirby, TX see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kirby?

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.