Psychiatrists in Kyle, TX

Photo of Ashley Martin, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Ashley Martin is dedicated to helping her clients achieve lasting mental wellness through personalized care. Serving clients throughout Texas, she focuses on restoring functionality and fostering individuality by developing customized treatment plans. Whether it's managing medication or addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Ashley works collaboratively with each client to meet their specific goals. Her approach is holistic, integrating therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to support comprehensive healing and growth.
Ashley Martin is dedicated to helping her clients achieve lasting mental wellness through personalized care. Serving clients throughout Texas, she focuses on restoring functionality and fostering individuality by developing customized treatment plans. Whether it's managing medication or addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Ashley works collaboratively with each client to meet their specific goals. Her approach is holistic, integrating therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to support comprehensive healing and growth.
(855) 628-5301 View (855) 628-5301
Photo of Honey Covin-Weeks, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Honey Covin-Weeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Honey Covin-Weeks is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Texas who started practicing in 2013. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Honey is a specialist in child and adolescent mental health with almost a decade of experience working exclusively with children and their families. She works to improve their functioning within the family, the school setting, and the larger community. Her treatment philosophy is somewhat of a marriage between Ross Green's theory that when a child can do better, he or she will do better, and the principles of behavior modification.
Honey Covin-Weeks is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Texas who started practicing in 2013. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Honey is a specialist in child and adolescent mental health with almost a decade of experience working exclusively with children and their families. She works to improve their functioning within the family, the school setting, and the larger community. Her treatment philosophy is somewhat of a marriage between Ross Green's theory that when a child can do better, he or she will do better, and the principles of behavior modification.
(512) 991-9462 View (512) 991-9462
Photo of Samantha Brown, MD, Psychiatrist
Samantha Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Samantha Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She earned an MD from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and completed her Psychiatry Internship and Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center. Samantha is easy to talk to, open minded and non-judgmental. She is sensitive to the occupational and relationship impact that mental health issues can have and takes those into account when designing a treatment plan.
Samantha Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She earned an MD from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and completed her Psychiatry Internship and Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center. Samantha is easy to talk to, open minded and non-judgmental. She is sensitive to the occupational and relationship impact that mental health issues can have and takes those into account when designing a treatment plan.
(512) 910-7295 View (512) 910-7295
Photo of Aju Alex, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Aju Alex
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Aju Alex has experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol disorder, and sleep disorders. She has her Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Prior to working as a PMHNP she worked as an RN at in-patient psychiatric units in Kansas and Georgia, catering to the needs of children, adolescents, and adults. She was motivated to further her career as a PMHNP after seeing the struggles and trauma that caused patients to be hospitalized/homeless.
Aju Alex has experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol disorder, and sleep disorders. She has her Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Prior to working as a PMHNP she worked as an RN at in-patient psychiatric units in Kansas and Georgia, catering to the needs of children, adolescents, and adults. She was motivated to further her career as a PMHNP after seeing the struggles and trauma that caused patients to be hospitalized/homeless.
(737) 637-5816 View (737) 637-5816
Photo of Dr. Barry Mills - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
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.
(855) 548-6372 View (855) 548-6372
Photo of Mallori Hernandez, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mallori Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Mallori Hernandez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from University of Texas at Arlington. Mallori's goal is to approach medication management in a collaborative way, taking patient's past and present experiences, concerns, and preferences into consideration. Mallori acknowledges psychosocial stressors as well as physical health when it comes to treating mental illness and address these when needed.
Mallori Hernandez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from University of Texas at Arlington. Mallori's goal is to approach medication management in a collaborative way, taking patient's past and present experiences, concerns, and preferences into consideration. Mallori acknowledges psychosocial stressors as well as physical health when it comes to treating mental illness and address these when needed.
(737) 232-5911 View (737) 232-5911
Photo of Yi Zhang, MD, Psychiatrist
Yi Zhang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Yi Zhang is a Psychiatrist in Texas with four years of experience. She earned her MD from the University of Texas Medical Branch and completed her Psychiatry Residency from the Brody School of Medicine. Yi believes in creating individually tailored treatments to bring out the best in her clients. In her spare time, Yi enjoys birding and hiking.
Yi Zhang is a Psychiatrist in Texas with four years of experience. She earned her MD from the University of Texas Medical Branch and completed her Psychiatry Residency from the Brody School of Medicine. Yi believes in creating individually tailored treatments to bring out the best in her clients. In her spare time, Yi enjoys birding and hiking.
(512) 855-2445 View (512) 855-2445
Photo of Sussana Howard, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sussana Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Sussana Howard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her career as a certified nurse assistant to complete her BSN and MSN and specialized as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in hospitals and telemedicine settings with diverse populations. Choosing this career path allows her to reach and make an impact on people who need support and care.
Sussana Howard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her career as a certified nurse assistant to complete her BSN and MSN and specialized as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in hospitals and telemedicine settings with diverse populations. Choosing this career path allows her to reach and make an impact on people who need support and care.
(737) 299-8387 View (737) 299-8387
Photo of Greater Austin Psychiatry Wellness - Greater Austin Psychiatry & Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Greater Austin Psychiatry & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
At Greater Austin Psychiatry & Wellness, we understand that mental illness does not define who you are. Much like patients diagnosed with Hypertension or Diabetes, mental illness is not a choice, but a medical condition benefiting from treatment. We believe in considering the entire person, as each aspect is intimately interconnected and relevant to the whole. We offer medication management and wellness services.
At Greater Austin Psychiatry & Wellness, we understand that mental illness does not define who you are. Much like patients diagnosed with Hypertension or Diabetes, mental illness is not a choice, but a medical condition benefiting from treatment. We believe in considering the entire person, as each aspect is intimately interconnected and relevant to the whole. We offer medication management and wellness services.
(512) 643-9763 View (512) 643-9763
Photo of Christina Torres, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kyle, TX 78640
Christie is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a masters degree in Nursing Administration & Leadership. She provides care to patients ages 18+ years, with a focus young adult issues, ADHD, women's issues, substance use disorders, co-occurring diagnosis, anxiety, mood, and developmental disorders. She values a holistic, inclusive, patient focused, evidence-based approach to client care that includes psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and psychoeducation.
Christie is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a masters degree in Nursing Administration & Leadership. She provides care to patients ages 18+ years, with a focus young adult issues, ADHD, women's issues, substance use disorders, co-occurring diagnosis, anxiety, mood, and developmental disorders. She values a holistic, inclusive, patient focused, evidence-based approach to client care that includes psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and psychoeducation.
(512) 361-4976 View (512) 361-4976
Photo of Ugo Rufus - Ugo Rufus - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugo Rufus - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Ugochi Rufus is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP- BC), certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Ms. Rufus received her Masters degree in Nursing, from the University of South Alabama.
Ugochi Rufus is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP- BC), certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Ms. Rufus received her Masters degree in Nursing, from the University of South Alabama.
(512) 764-3345 View (512) 764-3345
Photo of Blake Grant, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blake Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
Hi, I'm glad you are here! I want to help my patients achieve the goals they set for themselves, whatever they may be. I believe mental wellness is something we can achieve together and I'm here to collaborate with my clients to create a care plan that is attainable. I'd love the opportunity to chat with you and would be honored to help you on your journey. I have openings weekly and can see you within a week usually.
Hi, I'm glad you are here! I want to help my patients achieve the goals they set for themselves, whatever they may be. I believe mental wellness is something we can achieve together and I'm here to collaborate with my clients to create a care plan that is attainable. I'd love the opportunity to chat with you and would be honored to help you on your journey. I have openings weekly and can see you within a week usually.
(512) 647-2835 View (512) 647-2835
Photo of Christine Kilkenny, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Kilkenny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kyle, TX 78640
I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I believe in having my patients involved in the decision making process regarding their care. I collaborate closely with my patients and additional medical professionals involved in their care. My goal is to effectively treat patients using the fewest amount of medications possible at the individuals lowest therapeutic dose.
I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I believe in having my patients involved in the decision making process regarding their care. I collaborate closely with my patients and additional medical professionals involved in their care. My goal is to effectively treat patients using the fewest amount of medications possible at the individuals lowest therapeutic dose.
View
Photo of Mirella Huie, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mirella Huie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy through a holistic approach. I understand that no two people have the same background and needs, so I aim to empower individuals by collaborating with my clients to design tailored approaches to treatments. In addition to medication management, I take into account all components that promote mental health including physical exercise, dietary choices, and environmental factors.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy through a holistic approach. I understand that no two people have the same background and needs, so I aim to empower individuals by collaborating with my clients to design tailored approaches to treatments. In addition to medication management, I take into account all components that promote mental health including physical exercise, dietary choices, and environmental factors.
(512) 559-8875 View (512) 559-8875
Photo of Zack Lazar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zack Lazar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640
I provide holistic, consciousness-informed care as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient (non-crisis) setting. I feel I am an especially good fit for individuals committed to self-discovery, who are in a place of courage and willingness to do the work of healing. Additionally, I feel particularly well suited to serve individuals looking to integrate deep inner work (eg. medicine work, radical perspective shifts in therapy/group, deep meditation study, etc).
I provide holistic, consciousness-informed care as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient (non-crisis) setting. I feel I am an especially good fit for individuals committed to self-discovery, who are in a place of courage and willingness to do the work of healing. Additionally, I feel particularly well suited to serve individuals looking to integrate deep inner work (eg. medicine work, radical perspective shifts in therapy/group, deep meditation study, etc).
(512) 489-9720 View (512) 489-9720

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Shellylice Thomas, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shellylice Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Buda, TX 78610
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has more than 25 years of varied experience in healthcare. I provide person-centered care with the client's best interests at the forefront of any treatment decisions. My focus is to provide empathetic and accessible care to the patients with mental health problems. I am aware of the toll of mental health problems on the client's functioning in relationships, work, and study settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has more than 25 years of varied experience in healthcare. I provide person-centered care with the client's best interests at the forefront of any treatment decisions. My focus is to provide empathetic and accessible care to the patients with mental health problems. I am aware of the toll of mental health problems on the client's functioning in relationships, work, and study settings.
(469) 529-6659 View (469) 529-6659
Photo of Lindsay Bisby, PMHNP, BSN, RN, CPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsay Bisby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN, CPN
Verified Verified
Buda, TX 78610
Lindsay is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience working with patients across the lifespan and a special passion for working with children and adolescents struggling with life changes and mental health challenges. Lindsay has dedicated herself to the field of mental health both professionally and personally as a pediatric nurse working with children, adolescents and their families during difficult circumstances and over a decade of experience working with local agencies focused on supporting caregivers of foster children with complex behavioral needs.
Lindsay is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience working with patients across the lifespan and a special passion for working with children and adolescents struggling with life changes and mental health challenges. Lindsay has dedicated herself to the field of mental health both professionally and personally as a pediatric nurse working with children, adolescents and their families during difficult circumstances and over a decade of experience working with local agencies focused on supporting caregivers of foster children with complex behavioral needs.
(512) 882-0212 View (512) 882-0212
Photo of Kemi Olude, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buda, TX 78610
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS WITHIN A WEEK, WITH FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Providing services that combine traditional approaches (medication management and supportive psychotherapy with evidenced-based practice
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS WITHIN A WEEK, WITH FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Providing services that combine traditional approaches (medication management and supportive psychotherapy with evidenced-based practice
(214) 239-4167 View (214) 239-4167
Photo of Perry Bishop - Chase Bishop - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chase Bishop - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buda, TX 78610
Chase Bishop, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing with honors at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He graduated top of his class with his Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Texas State University.
Chase Bishop, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing with honors at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He graduated top of his class with his Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Texas State University.
(512) 273-7957 View (512) 273-7957

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Karissa L Dungy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karissa L Dungy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner of whom provides psychiatric treatment including medication management to individuals across the lifespan from 6yrs old to adults (<55), in person and via Telehealth. My passion is for our next generation of leaders, our children and adolescents. But we are the now and we need help today. I believe every person, no matter their age, is a unique individual and deserves individually tailored care, focusing on their needs and desires. I am here to provide such care beginning with a full assessment of the biological, psychological, and sociological issues.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner of whom provides psychiatric treatment including medication management to individuals across the lifespan from 6yrs old to adults (<55), in person and via Telehealth. My passion is for our next generation of leaders, our children and adolescents. But we are the now and we need help today. I believe every person, no matter their age, is a unique individual and deserves individually tailored care, focusing on their needs and desires. I am here to provide such care beginning with a full assessment of the biological, psychological, and sociological issues.
(512) 399-8154 View (512) 399-8154

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kyle, TX

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Kyle, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
93% Depression
93% Bipolar Disorder
93% Medication Management
87% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
93% Aetna
93% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Kyle, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kyle?

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.