Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX

Photo of Dena Smith - The Psychiatry Society- Dena Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
The Psychiatry Society- Dena Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
At The Psychiatry Society, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to real life. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer thoughtful medication management and supportive care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and more. My approach is collaborative, down-to-earth, and centered on helping you feel heard, understood, and supported—whether through telehealth or in-person visits. Care here is personalized, practical, and rooted in both clinical expertise and empathy.
At The Psychiatry Society, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to real life. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer thoughtful medication management and supportive care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and more. My approach is collaborative, down-to-earth, and centered on helping you feel heard, understood, and supported—whether through telehealth or in-person visits. Care here is personalized, practical, and rooted in both clinical expertise and empathy.
(346) 584-6461 View (346) 584-6461
Photo of Esther Nkwanyuo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Nkwanyuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I hold a master's degree in nursing and am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. With 18 years of experience in various nursing fields, I have a passion for working with both the young and the elderly, ranging from ages 4 to 80.
I hold a master's degree in nursing and am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. With 18 years of experience in various nursing fields, I have a passion for working with both the young and the elderly, ranging from ages 4 to 80.
(813) 669-0901 View (813) 669-0901
Photo of Neethu John, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Neethu John
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a PMHNP with strong background in mental health mainly with young adults, adults and geriatric populations. I love working holistically, I am through, collaborative and focused on safe evidence -based care with no stigma associated. My motto is to make mental health simple and not another task.
I am a PMHNP with strong background in mental health mainly with young adults, adults and geriatric populations. I love working holistically, I am through, collaborative and focused on safe evidence -based care with no stigma associated. My motto is to make mental health simple and not another task.
(346) 540-3470 View (346) 540-3470
Photo of Jilji M. Payikkattu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Jilji M. Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
(713) 538-2161 View (713) 538-2161
Photo of Sherry Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sherry Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
You do not need to feel ashamed when you are mentally ill. Mental health is connected to various aspects of a person's life, including physical health, relationships, work, and more. Do not hesitate to see a psychiatric specialist when you need help. Let's work it out together.
You do not need to feel ashamed when you are mentally ill. Mental health is connected to various aspects of a person's life, including physical health, relationships, work, and more. Do not hesitate to see a psychiatric specialist when you need help. Let's work it out together.
(832) 979-5278 View (832) 979-5278

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Karen S Brown, Psychiatrist, MD
Karen S Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Houston, TX 77024
“ If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And if not now, when?” Dr Brown believes it to be an extraordinary privilege to be trusted with patients’ life stories, and to alleviate pain and suffering. She is a native of Washington DC, but made Houston her home after earning a BS at George Washington in DC, completing medical school in Tel Aviv, Israel, and residency training in New York City, where she served as Chief Resident and was voted Resident of the Year. In addition to the privilege of being a healer, Dr Brown has had the academic honor of serving as a national examiner for board certification.
“ If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And if not now, when?” Dr Brown believes it to be an extraordinary privilege to be trusted with patients’ life stories, and to alleviate pain and suffering. She is a native of Washington DC, but made Houston her home after earning a BS at George Washington in DC, completing medical school in Tel Aviv, Israel, and residency training in New York City, where she served as Chief Resident and was voted Resident of the Year. In addition to the privilege of being a healer, Dr Brown has had the academic honor of serving as a national examiner for board certification.
(281) 317-8069 View (281) 317-8069
Photo of Dr. Caroline Lam, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Caroline Lam
Psychiatrist, MD
Friendswood, TX 77546
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
(281) 937-8209 View (281) 937-8209
Photo of Tom Rodriguez - Houston Mind Body Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, ANP, PMHCNS, CCH
Houston Mind Body Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, ANP, PMHCNS, CCH
Houston, TX 77040
I am an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. My practice is located at HWY 290 and Hollister in Houston, Texas. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication, and psychotherapy. I treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program was completed through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology. Additionally, I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy, couple's counseling, family therapy, group therapy, and as a clinical hypnotherapist.
I am an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. My practice is located at HWY 290 and Hollister in Houston, Texas. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication, and psychotherapy. I treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program was completed through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology. Additionally, I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy, couple's counseling, family therapy, group therapy, and as a clinical hypnotherapist.
(713) 234-6185 View (713) 234-6185
Rebecca Garza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing holistic, evidence-based care for teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, addiction concerns, and women’s mental health needs.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing holistic, evidence-based care for teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, addiction concerns, and women’s mental health needs.
Photo of Olatimbo Aladeloye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olatimbo Aladeloye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stafford, TX 77477
My name is Olatimbo “Rebecca” Aladeloye. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My clinical expertise includes providing comprehensive assessments, diagnosing mental health conditions, developing individualized treatment plans, and supportive psychotherapy. Mental Health is wealth. There is no reason to suffer in silence. You deserve to be mentally healthy, and I am here to help you through the tough times. I treat clients age 6 and older, and have worked with a diverse patient population, ranging from individuals with mood disorders to severe psychiatric illnesses.
My name is Olatimbo “Rebecca” Aladeloye. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My clinical expertise includes providing comprehensive assessments, diagnosing mental health conditions, developing individualized treatment plans, and supportive psychotherapy. Mental Health is wealth. There is no reason to suffer in silence. You deserve to be mentally healthy, and I am here to help you through the tough times. I treat clients age 6 and older, and have worked with a diverse patient population, ranging from individuals with mood disorders to severe psychiatric illnesses.
(346) 708-6703 View (346) 708-6703
Photo of Elisa Yvette Hilario, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Elisa Yvette Hilario
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate availability for new clients! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner w/a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin & Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, & holistic care to adults. I have a particular interest in treating insomnia & eating disorders & other clinical expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, & dementia treatment. I partner w/clients to optimize their mental health & tailor treatments to meet their unique needs.
Immediate availability for new clients! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner w/a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin & Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, & holistic care to adults. I have a particular interest in treating insomnia & eating disorders & other clinical expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, & dementia treatment. I partner w/clients to optimize their mental health & tailor treatments to meet their unique needs.
(737) 473-3008 View (737) 473-3008
Photo of Dr. Velile S Nkomo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, RN, PMHNPBC
Dr. Velile S Nkomo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, RN, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a strong affinity for collaborating with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds. My practice extends to treating a broad spectrum of age groups, including children, pre-teens, adolescents, and adults aged 11 and above. I approach my patients with genuine warmth, empathy, and a complete absence of judgment, fostering an environment where they feel understood and respected. Embracing diversity enriches my professional experience, and I take pleasure in engaging with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, my practice is dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being and overall quality of life.
I have a strong affinity for collaborating with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds. My practice extends to treating a broad spectrum of age groups, including children, pre-teens, adolescents, and adults aged 11 and above. I approach my patients with genuine warmth, empathy, and a complete absence of judgment, fostering an environment where they feel understood and respected. Embracing diversity enriches my professional experience, and I take pleasure in engaging with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, my practice is dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being and overall quality of life.
(972) 303-8392 View (972) 303-8392
Photo of Ali Sargeant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Ali Sargeant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of being tired? Have you been feeling overwhelmed by the demands of your life? Do you believe that no one understands what you are going through? Help is available with a single, phone call. Do not keep repeating the same cycle as yesterday. Now is the time to take charge! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide thoughtful, personalized care for adults who want clarity, collaboration, and a provider who truly takes the time to understand the full picture. Call today, I believe I can help you where you are! My practice is self-pay, which allows for more personalized appointments.
Are you tired of being tired? Have you been feeling overwhelmed by the demands of your life? Do you believe that no one understands what you are going through? Help is available with a single, phone call. Do not keep repeating the same cycle as yesterday. Now is the time to take charge! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide thoughtful, personalized care for adults who want clarity, collaboration, and a provider who truly takes the time to understand the full picture. Call today, I believe I can help you where you are! My practice is self-pay, which allows for more personalized appointments.
(737) 367-1317 View (737) 367-1317
Photo of Aishwarya Raju, Psychiatrist, DO
Aishwarya Raju
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479
I treat a variety of patients that include ages 5 and up and all socioeconomic ranges. I aim to provide my patients with whatever they may need through my outpatient programs.
I treat a variety of patients that include ages 5 and up and all socioeconomic ranges. I aim to provide my patients with whatever they may need through my outpatient programs.
(832) 261-9289 View (832) 261-9289
Photo of Chelsea Owen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chelsea Owen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner located in Georgia. I specialize in Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Mood Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders. I have extensive experience with the clinical treatment of psychiatric/mental health patients, offering an individualized approach to management and treatment. Additionally, I have over a decade of experience as a registered nurse working in acute care hospital facilities.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner located in Georgia. I specialize in Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Mood Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders. I have extensive experience with the clinical treatment of psychiatric/mental health patients, offering an individualized approach to management and treatment. Additionally, I have over a decade of experience as a registered nurse working in acute care hospital facilities.
(972) 303-8478 View (972) 303-8478
Photo of Michael Caltzontzint, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Caltzontzint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Hello, my name is Mike Caltzontzint and I am a licensed board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My interest in mental health began after serving 5 years in the United States Marine Corps from 2004-2009. I began to understand the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on military veterans as well as many Americans in the general population. This led me to pursue a career in nursing. I graduated from The University of Texas in Austin with my bachelor's degree and later returned to complete my master's degree at UT Health Science Center in Houston
Hello, my name is Mike Caltzontzint and I am a licensed board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My interest in mental health began after serving 5 years in the United States Marine Corps from 2004-2009. I began to understand the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on military veterans as well as many Americans in the general population. This led me to pursue a career in nursing. I graduated from The University of Texas in Austin with my bachelor's degree and later returned to complete my master's degree at UT Health Science Center in Houston
(832) 905-1324 View (832) 905-1324
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Houston, TX 77027
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.
(832) 558-7363 View (832) 558-7363
Photo of Bridget Awosika, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN
Bridget Awosika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN
Houston, TX 77099
Life is a pattern; it has its ups and down, when the challenges of life hit, I am here to listen. I connect with my patients and provide individual plan of care. We will talk about your needs and together formulate the best treatment. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the healthcare industry and I believe that every individual is unique, I provide culturally competent care and specializes in treating a wide range of mental health and behavioral disorders
Life is a pattern; it has its ups and down, when the challenges of life hit, I am here to listen. I connect with my patients and provide individual plan of care. We will talk about your needs and together formulate the best treatment. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the healthcare industry and I believe that every individual is unique, I provide culturally competent care and specializes in treating a wide range of mental health and behavioral disorders
(281) 214-6194 View (281) 214-6194
Photo of Rafael D. Guerrero, Psychiatrist, MD
Rafael D. Guerrero
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I love my job and count myself blessed to be able to help others find the healing and help that they are often looking for when struggling with the issues of depression, anxiety, problems with mood and ADD/ADHD. All of theses can have a huge impact on our daily lives, in our marriages and at school. I use medication with supportive therapy to help you achieve resolution of these and other issues.
I love my job and count myself blessed to be able to help others find the healing and help that they are often looking for when struggling with the issues of depression, anxiety, problems with mood and ADD/ADHD. All of theses can have a huge impact on our daily lives, in our marriages and at school. I use medication with supportive therapy to help you achieve resolution of these and other issues.
(281) 305-8952 View (281) 305-8952
Photo of Mutiat Olawunmi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mutiat Olawunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Mutiat Olawunmi. Highly trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) offering well-developed interpersonal, acute care treatment and relationship-building skills. Promoting pleasant personalities and skills helps patients stay calm and communicative. Resourceful PMHNP with multiple state licenses including California, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washington who is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages. Expertise in performing admission assessments and discharges and participating in crisis interventions.
Mutiat Olawunmi. Highly trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) offering well-developed interpersonal, acute care treatment and relationship-building skills. Promoting pleasant personalities and skills helps patients stay calm and communicative. Resourceful PMHNP with multiple state licenses including California, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washington who is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages. Expertise in performing admission assessments and discharges and participating in crisis interventions.
(281) 801-7232 View (281) 801-7232

See more therapy options for Manvel

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
80% Eating Disorders
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manvel?

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.