Psychiatrists in Lucas, TX

As a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), I bring over 8 years of clinical experience and a whole-person approach to mental health care. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD. My practice focuses on compassionate, evidence-based care that is tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals.
As a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), I bring over 8 years of clinical experience and a whole-person approach to mental health care. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD. My practice focuses on compassionate, evidence-based care that is tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to treat patients with mental health disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in managing medications and treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. My approach is grounded in a humanistic philosophy that values holistic care for mind, body, and spirit, along with personalized, culturally sensitive treatment.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to treat patients with mental health disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in managing medications and treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. My approach is grounded in a humanistic philosophy that values holistic care for mind, body, and spirit, along with personalized, culturally sensitive treatment.
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I am a Nurse Practitioner with 11 years of experience, including 8 years in family practice and 3 years in psychiatric care. I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/Autism and gender dysphoria. I have extensive experience serving diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, and am committed to providing inclusive, affirming care. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on both physical and mental well-being to help individuals achieve their health goals.
I am a Nurse Practitioner with 11 years of experience, including 8 years in family practice and 3 years in psychiatric care. I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/Autism and gender dysphoria. I have extensive experience serving diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, and am committed to providing inclusive, affirming care. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on both physical and mental well-being to help individuals achieve their health goals.

Hello, I'm a dual-certified Nurse practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas. I received my post-master's degree from Walden University. I have been practicing as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner for over six years, managing both chronic conditions and some psychiatric conditions.
Hello, I'm a dual-certified Nurse practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas. I received my post-master's degree from Walden University. I have been practicing as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner for over six years, managing both chronic conditions and some psychiatric conditions.

Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.

Dr. Abernethy is a board-certified psychiatrist. He has experience treating a wide scope of mental health related symptomatology among diverse populations ranging from mood and anxiety related issues to behavioral manifestations of Autism and other developmental disorders. Dr. Abernethy is willing to treat the younger population, and actually a majority of Dr. Abernethy's experience over the past decade has been with treating Children and Adolescents including but not limited to ADHD symptoms, conduct/behavioral related issues, anxiety, teenage depression.
Dr. Abernethy is a board-certified psychiatrist. He has experience treating a wide scope of mental health related symptomatology among diverse populations ranging from mood and anxiety related issues to behavioral manifestations of Autism and other developmental disorders. Dr. Abernethy is willing to treat the younger population, and actually a majority of Dr. Abernethy's experience over the past decade has been with treating Children and Adolescents including but not limited to ADHD symptoms, conduct/behavioral related issues, anxiety, teenage depression.

Dreamwork Wellness Center is the most technologically advanced treatment center in North Texas for all your Mental Health needs. We are the center of Highly Certified Specialists. We aim to empower individuals to reclaim their mental well-being and thrive through compassionate care, innovative therapies, and personalized support. A place where every individual can embrace their full potential.
Dreamwork Wellness Center is the most technologically advanced treatment center in North Texas for all your Mental Health needs. We are the center of Highly Certified Specialists. We aim to empower individuals to reclaim their mental well-being and thrive through compassionate care, innovative therapies, and personalized support. A place where every individual can embrace their full potential.

I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, OCD, and sleep disorders. My approach combines medication management and supportive therapy, with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support long-term wellness. I am committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, OCD, and sleep disorders. My approach combines medication management and supportive therapy, with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support long-term wellness. I am committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Welcome to Vibrant Mental Wellness! I understand that navigating mental health challenges can be overwhelming.
Welcome to Vibrant Mental Wellness! I understand that navigating mental health challenges can be overwhelming.

Now Accepting New Patients!
We offer telehealth and in-person appointments across Texas. At Hope Mental Health Clinic, we’re here to support you—whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. We are committed to supporting adolescents (13+) and adults on their journey toward mental wellness.Your journey is unique, and so is our approach. We take time to listen, understand your needs, and create a personalized treatment plan. With compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to your well-being, we’re here to help you heal.
Now Accepting New Patients!
We offer telehealth and in-person appointments across Texas. At Hope Mental Health Clinic, we’re here to support you—whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns. We are committed to supporting adolescents (13+) and adults on their journey toward mental wellness.Your journey is unique, and so is our approach. We take time to listen, understand your needs, and create a personalized treatment plan. With compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to your well-being, we’re here to help you heal.

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.

I am board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. My career as a clinician span over 14 years of inpatient and outpatient care experience across multiple specialties including – Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Urgent Care, Pediatrics, Pain Management, Med-Surg, Telemetry, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse Disorder. I obtained a Master of Science degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Chamberlain University and a Post-master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse from Maryville University. I also have a Bachelor of Nursing from Mercer University.
I am board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. My career as a clinician span over 14 years of inpatient and outpatient care experience across multiple specialties including – Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Urgent Care, Pediatrics, Pain Management, Med-Surg, Telemetry, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse Disorder. I obtained a Master of Science degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Chamberlain University and a Post-master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse from Maryville University. I also have a Bachelor of Nursing from Mercer University.

Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training.
Doctor Ruiz is a board-certified psychiatrist physician who specializes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, ADHD, and pregnancy related psychiatric conditions. Dr. Ruiz received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, graduating from the Honors College with Magna Cum Laude. She later completed four-years of medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and an additional four-years of psychiatric residency training.

Dr. Molina is board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience treating mood/anxiety disorders and ADHD. Dr. Molina is a graduate of the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He completed his residency at UTMB where he served as chief resident. Over the past two decades he has proficiently provided psychiatric care across all levels of treatment. He is held in high esteem by his patients and colleagues. He has been recognized on many occasions as a “Texas Super Doctor” in Texas Monthly and has been recognized in D Magazine as one of “The Most Respected Doctors in Dallas” in 2017.
Dr. Molina is board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience treating mood/anxiety disorders and ADHD. Dr. Molina is a graduate of the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He completed his residency at UTMB where he served as chief resident. Over the past two decades he has proficiently provided psychiatric care across all levels of treatment. He is held in high esteem by his patients and colleagues. He has been recognized on many occasions as a “Texas Super Doctor” in Texas Monthly and has been recognized in D Magazine as one of “The Most Respected Doctors in Dallas” in 2017.

Now accepting new patients within a week appointments available; weekdays and on weekends. Are you struggling with loneliness, not your usual self, or feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or feeling stuck? You are not alone, we are here to help at Excellent Touch psychiatry, to listen, and help you become the best version of yourself, by providing client-centered, empathetic, trauma-informed, and competent quality care delivered through telehealth. We specialized in treating anyone with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and any other mental issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, and social life.
Now accepting new patients within a week appointments available; weekdays and on weekends. Are you struggling with loneliness, not your usual self, or feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or feeling stuck? You are not alone, we are here to help at Excellent Touch psychiatry, to listen, and help you become the best version of yourself, by providing client-centered, empathetic, trauma-informed, and competent quality care delivered through telehealth. We specialized in treating anyone with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and any other mental issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, and social life.

Oyebola Bola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
My name is Oyebola ‘Bola’ Oyelade, DNP, Board-Certified PMHNP with over 14 years of experience actively listening and treating clients across various lifespans. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsion disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, psychosis, PTSD, insomnia, and ADHD.
My name is Oyebola ‘Bola’ Oyelade, DNP, Board-Certified PMHNP with over 14 years of experience actively listening and treating clients across various lifespans. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsion disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, psychosis, PTSD, insomnia, and ADHD.

Dr. Mendez obtained his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He subsequently completed his Psychiatry residency training at the same institution, UT Medical School in Houston. Dr. Mendez has extensive training in the field and is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After professional training Dr. Mendez has had vast experience of 15 years primarily in the outpatient setting including ample experience with telemedicine services to patients.
Dr. Mendez obtained his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He subsequently completed his Psychiatry residency training at the same institution, UT Medical School in Houston. Dr. Mendez has extensive training in the field and is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After professional training Dr. Mendez has had vast experience of 15 years primarily in the outpatient setting including ample experience with telemedicine services to patients.

Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.
Are you seeking a space where your story truly matters and your voice is genuinely heard? If you're facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to go through it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a compassionate, non-judgmental setting, we'll explore the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than temporary relief.

Dr. Elizabeth Faust is board-certified in Psychiatry with a fellowship in Integrative Psychiatry. She started in Family Medicine while in the Navy, where she also was a Flight Surgeon. She has practiced medicine since 1999, focusing on Psychiatry since 2007. Dr. Faust practices with an integrative approach to see what medical factors contribute to symptoms, unhealthy thought or relationship patterns, and lifestyle factors that maintain dysfunction. Unexamined, medications will only work briefly.
Dr. Elizabeth Faust is board-certified in Psychiatry with a fellowship in Integrative Psychiatry. She started in Family Medicine while in the Navy, where she also was a Flight Surgeon. She has practiced medicine since 1999, focusing on Psychiatry since 2007. Dr. Faust practices with an integrative approach to see what medical factors contribute to symptoms, unhealthy thought or relationship patterns, and lifestyle factors that maintain dysfunction. Unexamined, medications will only work briefly.

Dr. Jennifer Ruch is a board certified psychiatrist who strives to understand her patients’ lived experiences and aspirations to develop supportive therapeutic relationships through empathetic listening, mutual trust, and respect. She collaboratively creates individualized care plans that align with personal treatment goals in a safe and judgment-free environment. She earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ruch completed her General Psychiatry Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in New York.
Dr. Jennifer Ruch is a board certified psychiatrist who strives to understand her patients’ lived experiences and aspirations to develop supportive therapeutic relationships through empathetic listening, mutual trust, and respect. She collaboratively creates individualized care plans that align with personal treatment goals in a safe and judgment-free environment. She earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ruch completed her General Psychiatry Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in New York.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Lucas, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lucas, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Drug Abuse |
50% | Addiction |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Eating Disorders |
50% | Grief |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Lucas, TX see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lucas?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.