Psychiatrists in Mansfield, TX

Photo of Beth Wangombe - Wellness Point Psychiatry Consultants, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Wellness Point Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
******ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ******Beth Wangombe is a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center specializing in treating Children, Teens, and Adults with mental and behavioral issues. She graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington receiving an award of Clinical Excellence; thereafter, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Alabama Huntsville. Beth takes pride in providing care to children and teens struggling with mental illness. Beth also work with adults and families struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma and other emotional disorders.
******ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ******Beth Wangombe is a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center specializing in treating Children, Teens, and Adults with mental and behavioral issues. She graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington receiving an award of Clinical Excellence; thereafter, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Alabama Huntsville. Beth takes pride in providing care to children and teens struggling with mental illness. Beth also work with adults and families struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma and other emotional disorders.
(817) 592-9689 View (817) 592-9689
Photo of Sylvie Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Sylvie Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
Feeling stuck and unable to break free? Does it seem like there is no light at the end of the tunnel? I understand that asking for help can be daunting. Are you searching for some relief, from your struggles longing for a listener? I aim to customize treatments to meet each person's needs; my objective is to empower patients by educating them about their options thus fostering wellbeing in an understanding environment. My goal is to assist you in taking control of your health bridging the gap, between where you're now and where you want to be. No waiting lists here. Let's collaborate and make progress together!
Feeling stuck and unable to break free? Does it seem like there is no light at the end of the tunnel? I understand that asking for help can be daunting. Are you searching for some relief, from your struggles longing for a listener? I aim to customize treatments to meet each person's needs; my objective is to empower patients by educating them about their options thus fostering wellbeing in an understanding environment. My goal is to assist you in taking control of your health bridging the gap, between where you're now and where you want to be. No waiting lists here. Let's collaborate and make progress together!
(682) 424-6043 View (682) 424-6043
Photo of Stanley Okeyemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stanley Okeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
By my actions, I will define the standards of excellence and dedication to the health and safety of clients entrusted to my care. My goal is to utilize my knowledge, competencies, and advanced skills towards helping patients achieve a good quality life, health and well-being, while also continuing to advocate ‘for,’ and empower clients with mental illnesses. With regards to my self-assessment, I rate myself as a competent practitioner that continually strives hard to deliver quality care that is based on evidence, which assures optimum patients wellness, while also protecting my practice.
By my actions, I will define the standards of excellence and dedication to the health and safety of clients entrusted to my care. My goal is to utilize my knowledge, competencies, and advanced skills towards helping patients achieve a good quality life, health and well-being, while also continuing to advocate ‘for,’ and empower clients with mental illnesses. With regards to my self-assessment, I rate myself as a competent practitioner that continually strives hard to deliver quality care that is based on evidence, which assures optimum patients wellness, while also protecting my practice.
(682) 452-1275 View (682) 452-1275
Photo of Sarah Iyoha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Sarah Iyoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
My goal is to meet my client where they are at. We work together as a team to get each and every one to where they need to be. I am here to help, listen, and never to judge. We as a team will implement a goal, plan, and accomplish those goals.
My goal is to meet my client where they are at. We work together as a team to get each and every one to where they need to be. I am here to help, listen, and never to judge. We as a team will implement a goal, plan, and accomplish those goals.
(817) 442-3846 View (817) 442-3846
Photo of Timothy Kimuyu - In Touch Psychiatry Consultants & Family Medicine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
In Touch Psychiatry Consultants & Family Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
3 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
Timothy Kimuyu is a duel Certified Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. He specializes in treating both children, preteens, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric illness. We live in a fast paced environment, busy schedules and never ending life demands. All these bring about psychosocial and psychological stressors which can be overbearing and impact our mental state.
Timothy Kimuyu is a duel Certified Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. He specializes in treating both children, preteens, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric illness. We live in a fast paced environment, busy schedules and never ending life demands. All these bring about psychosocial and psychological stressors which can be overbearing and impact our mental state.
(817) 592-9892 View (817) 592-9892
Photo of Myra Gaius-Anyaegbu - Olive Green Behavioral Health Services PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Olive Green Behavioral Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
At Olive Green Behavioral Health Services, our goal is to help you achieve and maintain peace of mind. We aim to decrease the stigma associated with mental health by encouraging and assisting you to take charge of your health, not just physically but mentally as well. We look forward to assisting you to reach your life goals and live your best life.
At Olive Green Behavioral Health Services, our goal is to help you achieve and maintain peace of mind. We aim to decrease the stigma associated with mental health by encouraging and assisting you to take charge of your health, not just physically but mentally as well. We look forward to assisting you to reach your life goals and live your best life.
(682) 888-5253 View (682) 888-5253
Photo of Juliet Forbi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Juliet Forbi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Mansfield, TX 76063
Accepting new Patients – Start your Healing journey Today! Are you tired of feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, or overwhelming stress? You're not alone—and you don’t have to struggle in silence. I offer personalized treatment options that goes beyond medication designed to help you reclaim your joy and peace of mind Beyond traditional therapy, I provide cutting-edge solutions like Spravato (esketamine) and TMS—innovative treatments for those who need more than just medication. Whether you’re seeking lasting relief, balance, or a fresh start, I am here to guide you every step of the way. Your breakthrough starts today
Accepting new Patients – Start your Healing journey Today! Are you tired of feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, or overwhelming stress? You're not alone—and you don’t have to struggle in silence. I offer personalized treatment options that goes beyond medication designed to help you reclaim your joy and peace of mind Beyond traditional therapy, I provide cutting-edge solutions like Spravato (esketamine) and TMS—innovative treatments for those who need more than just medication. Whether you’re seeking lasting relief, balance, or a fresh start, I am here to guide you every step of the way. Your breakthrough starts today
(214) 833-6498 View (214) 833-6498
Photo of Patrick A Rabjohn, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Patrick A Rabjohn
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Mansfield, TX 76063
After 15 years in private practice, our established office knows the value of listening. I take 75 minutes to do me evaluations; they are done entirely by me; there is no symptom paperwork to fill-out beforehand nor do we have an MA or nurse take your history. You will have the entire time to be with me so I ca hear your story, interview you about your symptoms, and discuss a variety of medication and therapy treatment options. You will leave with a plan, and we will do whatever it takes to get your symptoms into remission.
After 15 years in private practice, our established office knows the value of listening. I take 75 minutes to do me evaluations; they are done entirely by me; there is no symptom paperwork to fill-out beforehand nor do we have an MA or nurse take your history. You will have the entire time to be with me so I ca hear your story, interview you about your symptoms, and discuss a variety of medication and therapy treatment options. You will leave with a plan, and we will do whatever it takes to get your symptoms into remission.
(817) 631-1041 View (817) 631-1041
Photo of Eunice O Nsofor - Healing Hope Behavioral Clinic LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Healing Hope Behavioral Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
2 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
Eunice Nsofor PMHNP-BC, is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years’ experience in Psychiatry. Eunice provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs. She treats a wide range of mental health issues such as: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders. She also offers one-on-one psychotherapy. She is Flexible in accommodating clients needs.
Eunice Nsofor PMHNP-BC, is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years’ experience in Psychiatry. Eunice provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs. She treats a wide range of mental health issues such as: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders. She also offers one-on-one psychotherapy. She is Flexible in accommodating clients needs.
(214) 466-1629 View (214) 466-1629
Photo of Kimberly N Onwubuya - KND Behavioral Health Clinic PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
KND Behavioral Health Clinic PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Mansfield, TX 76063
I am a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialization in Psychiatry with several years of experience treating and managing various mental health disorders. My clinical experience is with children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric disorders including - anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and many other disorders. I know that true wellness means treating our bodies and minds with care. We built an environment that is beneficial for all clients that offers telehealth and in person sessions. We have available appointments to fit all needs.
I am a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialization in Psychiatry with several years of experience treating and managing various mental health disorders. My clinical experience is with children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric disorders including - anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and many other disorders. I know that true wellness means treating our bodies and minds with care. We built an environment that is beneficial for all clients that offers telehealth and in person sessions. We have available appointments to fit all needs.
(214) 239-3731 View (214) 239-3731
Photo of Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Mansfield, TX 76063
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.
(817) 482-0761 View (817) 482-0761
Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Online Only
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.
(682) 452-6181 View (682) 452-6181
Photo of Judith Moraa Nyabuti - Wholesome Mind Psychiatry and Wellness Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Wholesome Mind Psychiatry and Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. SAME-DAY appointments are available. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Private Pay rates made affordable. My approach to providing care as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based care.
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. SAME-DAY appointments are available. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Private Pay rates made affordable. My approach to providing care as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based care.
(682) 327-1054 View (682) 327-1054
Photo of Jennifer Roberts-Clayton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Roberts-Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mansfield, TX 76063
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been providing Psychiatry services for more than two years at Geode Health. I see teens, adults, and seniors. I address anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and other mental health problems. I am not currently taking new ADHD patients, this may change.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been providing Psychiatry services for more than two years at Geode Health. I see teens, adults, and seniors. I address anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and other mental health problems. I am not currently taking new ADHD patients, this may change.
(469) 840-1428 View (469) 840-1428
Photo of Amanda Weatherford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Amanda Weatherford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Mansfield, TX 76063
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a year of experience in outpatient and correctional settings. I provide care for teens, young adults, and seniors, addressing conditions such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction, and PTSD.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a year of experience in outpatient and correctional settings. I provide care for teens, young adults, and seniors, addressing conditions such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction, and PTSD.
(682) 267-5832 View (682) 267-5832
Photo of Benard Choi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Benard Choi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in private practice, I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep Disorders, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, and various other behavioral issues. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic modalities with personalized care to help my clients achieve optimal well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in private practice, I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep Disorders, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, and various other behavioral issues. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic modalities with personalized care to help my clients achieve optimal well-being.
(214) 833-7613 View (214) 833-7613
Photo of Judith Moraa Nyabuti - Wholesome Mind Psychiatry and Wellness Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Wholesome Mind Psychiatry and Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
Judith enjoys working with diverse groups and people from different cultures. She practices improving mental wellness and quality of life for her patients. She treats children, adolescents, and adults ages twelve and above. Judith relates to patients in a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Judith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a 2022 graduate of University of Texas at Arlington. She is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and has 10 years of psychiatry experience, including over 7 years of Inpatient Psychiatric care.
Judith enjoys working with diverse groups and people from different cultures. She practices improving mental wellness and quality of life for her patients. She treats children, adolescents, and adults ages twelve and above. Judith relates to patients in a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Judith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a 2022 graduate of University of Texas at Arlington. She is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and has 10 years of psychiatry experience, including over 7 years of Inpatient Psychiatric care.
(682) 328-0534 View (682) 328-0534
Photo of Cordelia Odunayo - Creative Minds Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Creative Minds Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Mansfield, TX 76063
Welcome to Creative Minds Behavioral Health. We provide Mental Health treatment for Kids, Teens and Adults. We provide psychiatric diagnoses, evaluations and medication management for a wide range of Mental illness. We also specialize in treatment of the following mental health issues: Bipolar, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction and other psychiatric disorders. Call today and schedule your appointment to receive quality and outstanding individualized care, that is centered around you. Please call us today for more information.
Welcome to Creative Minds Behavioral Health. We provide Mental Health treatment for Kids, Teens and Adults. We provide psychiatric diagnoses, evaluations and medication management for a wide range of Mental illness. We also specialize in treatment of the following mental health issues: Bipolar, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction and other psychiatric disorders. Call today and schedule your appointment to receive quality and outstanding individualized care, that is centered around you. Please call us today for more information.
(817) 541-0465 View (817) 541-0465
Photo of Melissa L Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Melissa L Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer a holistic approach to mental health care, integrating medication management with evidence-based talk therapy techniques. My therapeutic style is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment. Whether you're facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or navigating life transitions, am here to partner with you towards healing and growth. My goal is not only to alleviate symptoms but also to help you cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and the skills needed to thrive in all aspects of your life.
I offer a holistic approach to mental health care, integrating medication management with evidence-based talk therapy techniques. My therapeutic style is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment. Whether you're facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or navigating life transitions, am here to partner with you towards healing and growth. My goal is not only to alleviate symptoms but also to help you cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and the skills needed to thrive in all aspects of your life.
(817) 897-4041 View (817) 897-4041
Photo of Lloyd E Esene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LLB, BL, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Lloyd E Esene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LLB, BL, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I take great pride in helping and working with my patients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzle. For every patient I draw up a Plan of Care to take them from a state of confusion, trauma, depression, anxiety, Psychosis, Bipolar etc, to a state of normality, a state of stable and functional mental wellbeing. I listen and watch out for those unspoken but yet loud mental pain, trauma darkness that are afflicting them and help them find answers. I love to travel overseas and within the United States. I am huge soccer fan, and I love to watch Chelsea FC of London, The Nigerian soccer national team, the Mexican National team,
I take great pride in helping and working with my patients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzle. For every patient I draw up a Plan of Care to take them from a state of confusion, trauma, depression, anxiety, Psychosis, Bipolar etc, to a state of normality, a state of stable and functional mental wellbeing. I listen and watch out for those unspoken but yet loud mental pain, trauma darkness that are afflicting them and help them find answers. I love to travel overseas and within the United States. I am huge soccer fan, and I love to watch Chelsea FC of London, The Nigerian soccer national team, the Mexican National team,
(682) 301-8203 View (682) 301-8203

See more therapy options for Mansfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Mansfield, TX

50+

Average cost per session

$177

Psychiatrists in Mansfield, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
77% Trauma and PTSD
64% Medication Management
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Mansfield, TX see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Mansfield?

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.