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.

If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription.

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Hello! My name is Mohammed Abubakar, a licensed APRN and board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. My practice centers on helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues by fostering resilience and promoting self-awareness. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where we work together to understand your unique experiences and develop effective coping strategies.
Hello! My name is Mohammed Abubakar, a licensed APRN and board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. My practice centers on helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues by fostering resilience and promoting self-awareness. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where we work together to understand your unique experiences and develop effective coping strategies.

Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.

Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.

Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.

Dr. Miranda Morgan is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in New York and Texas. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a member of the American Psychiatric Association. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from The University of Texas at San Antonio and her medical degree from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her residency in psychiatry at Texas A&M University - Temple/Baylor Scott & White Hospital, where she was Recruitment Chief Resident.
Dr. Miranda Morgan is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in New York and Texas. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a member of the American Psychiatric Association. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from The University of Texas at San Antonio and her medical degree from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her residency in psychiatry at Texas A&M University - Temple/Baylor Scott & White Hospital, where she was Recruitment Chief Resident.

As a psychiatrist with over 9 years of experience, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.
As a psychiatrist with over 9 years of experience, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.

I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.

Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders

Navigating therapy or starting new medication can be daunting. I aim to cultivate a safe online space where patients can feel free from judgment. We will collaborate on personalized treatment plans aligned with your goals. Specializing in aiding individuals facing life transitions or acute stressors, I find fulfillment in assisting with challenges like dating, divorce, job transitions, infertility, and coping with loss among others. Therapy can be intense at times so I also ask my patients to really set aside time in their schedule where they can focus on themselves and have space after the session to reflect.
Navigating therapy or starting new medication can be daunting. I aim to cultivate a safe online space where patients can feel free from judgment. We will collaborate on personalized treatment plans aligned with your goals. Specializing in aiding individuals facing life transitions or acute stressors, I find fulfillment in assisting with challenges like dating, divorce, job transitions, infertility, and coping with loss among others. Therapy can be intense at times so I also ask my patients to really set aside time in their schedule where they can focus on themselves and have space after the session to reflect.

Many of my clients feel stuck—despite trying meds or therapy. They struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, or brain fog and want deeper answers. I’m a board-certified psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist with training in family and functional medicine. I offer both conventional care and advanced options like Spravato, ketamine, and TMS, as well as personalized, root-cause functional medicine consults. If you’re looking for thoughtful, integrative care that connects the dots, I’d be honored to help.
Many of my clients feel stuck—despite trying meds or therapy. They struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, or brain fog and want deeper answers. I’m a board-certified psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist with training in family and functional medicine. I offer both conventional care and advanced options like Spravato, ketamine, and TMS, as well as personalized, root-cause functional medicine consults. If you’re looking for thoughtful, integrative care that connects the dots, I’d be honored to help.

Ambeson Ambe, PMHNP Ambeson Ambe is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) serving individuals and families in Texas. His holistic approach to mental health care focuses on empowering clients to improve their quality of life through comprehensive assessments, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support. Whether working with adolescents, adults, or seniors, Ambeson provides medication management, therapy, counseling, and crisis intervention to address a wide range of mental health concerns.
Ambeson Ambe, PMHNP Ambeson Ambe is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) serving individuals and families in Texas. His holistic approach to mental health care focuses on empowering clients to improve their quality of life through comprehensive assessments, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support. Whether working with adolescents, adults, or seniors, Ambeson provides medication management, therapy, counseling, and crisis intervention to address a wide range of mental health concerns.

I help men and women who are struggling with overwhelm, distraction, trauma, and mood conditions (depression and anxiety) improve their symptoms, be more present, feel more confident, and have more peace. I utilize advanced diagnostic assessments and truly listen to patients. Treatment modalities are flexible according to patient preference and clinical indication. They may include gold standard medications, psychotherapy, compound medications, lifestyle modification, spiritual care, and hormonal therapy.
I help men and women who are struggling with overwhelm, distraction, trauma, and mood conditions (depression and anxiety) improve their symptoms, be more present, feel more confident, and have more peace. I utilize advanced diagnostic assessments and truly listen to patients. Treatment modalities are flexible according to patient preference and clinical indication. They may include gold standard medications, psychotherapy, compound medications, lifestyle modification, spiritual care, and hormonal therapy.

Emery Chapa, PMHNP at Allen Psychiatry, TMS & IOP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with clinical experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adolescents and adults. In conjunction with Shahla Ali, MD, I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity, Major Depression, Bipolar, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorders. We are now providing one of the most advanced FDA cleared treatments for depression including NeuroStar TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) Nasal Spray
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with clinical experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adolescents and adults. In conjunction with Shahla Ali, MD, I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity, Major Depression, Bipolar, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorders. We are now providing one of the most advanced FDA cleared treatments for depression including NeuroStar TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) Nasal Spray

Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.

If you’re feeling anxious about starting or continuing mental health treatment- especially around medication- you’re not alone. Many of my patients come in already on medication, unsure if it’s helping, or overwhelmed by side effects and dosage changes. Others are just beginning to explore their options and want to move slowly, with care. Whether you're needing medication management or navigating grief, trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, bipolar or mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, my role is to meet you with compassion, not pressure- and to support you step-by-step, at your pace.
If you’re feeling anxious about starting or continuing mental health treatment- especially around medication- you’re not alone. Many of my patients come in already on medication, unsure if it’s helping, or overwhelmed by side effects and dosage changes. Others are just beginning to explore their options and want to move slowly, with care. Whether you're needing medication management or navigating grief, trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, bipolar or mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, my role is to meet you with compassion, not pressure- and to support you step-by-step, at your pace.

I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in behavioral health and psychiatric-mental health across the lifespan with varying diagnoses. My objective is to evaluate, diagnose, prescribe medications, and treat patients with a wide range of psychiatric-mental health and substance abuse disorders. I work with patients with a variety of mental health diagnoses: Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction and Substance Misuse, and Schizophrenia and Psychotic disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in behavioral health and psychiatric-mental health across the lifespan with varying diagnoses. My objective is to evaluate, diagnose, prescribe medications, and treat patients with a wide range of psychiatric-mental health and substance abuse disorders. I work with patients with a variety of mental health diagnoses: Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction and Substance Misuse, and Schizophrenia and Psychotic disorders.

I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I'm passionate about providing high quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. My goal in treating my patients is to help them reclaim their mental health in a setting which offers quality individualized care where my patients come first.
I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I'm passionate about providing high quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. My goal in treating my patients is to help them reclaim their mental health in a setting which offers quality individualized care where my patients come first.
See more therapy options for Lucas
Nearby Searches for Lucas
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lucas, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lucas, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Drug Abuse |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
35 Years
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.