Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX

Dr. Columban Heo is a board-certified psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the quality of life of his patients. He received his medical degree from Touro University Nevada and residency training from Unity Health White County Medical Center. He went on to complete a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic, where he became well-versed in working with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and treating psychiatric patients with complex medical conditions. Dr. Heo specializes in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Columban Heo is a board-certified psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the quality of life of his patients. He received his medical degree from Touro University Nevada and residency training from Unity Health White County Medical Center. He went on to complete a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic, where he became well-versed in working with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and treating psychiatric patients with complex medical conditions. Dr. Heo specializes in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood and anxiety disorders.

Nilesh Tannu, MD, is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry since past 7 years at Texas Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Tannu uses the bio-psycho-social model to provide evidence-based psychopharmacologic treatment. He also integrates supportive and cognitive-behavioral therapy modalities into his practice. Dr. Tannu is strongly committed to mental health care, education and helping patients achieve optimal functioning to accomplish their life goals.
Nilesh Tannu, MD, is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry since past 7 years at Texas Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Tannu uses the bio-psycho-social model to provide evidence-based psychopharmacologic treatment. He also integrates supportive and cognitive-behavioral therapy modalities into his practice. Dr. Tannu is strongly committed to mental health care, education and helping patients achieve optimal functioning to accomplish their life goals.

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

Domikah Burks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient's unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington -- where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings
Domikah Burks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient's unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington -- where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings

Dr. Matthew Koller is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is joining the Talkiatry team as a staff psychiatrist after completion of his psychiatry residency. Dr. Koller believes that a person must be known before they are treated, and he works with patients to understand their goals of care while prioritizing a collaborative treatment approach. His practice focuses on medication management, however he allows space for supportive therapy and other therapeutic modalities within sessions. He may include a therapist in the treatment plan for optimal care.
Dr. Matthew Koller is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is joining the Talkiatry team as a staff psychiatrist after completion of his psychiatry residency. Dr. Koller believes that a person must be known before they are treated, and he works with patients to understand their goals of care while prioritizing a collaborative treatment approach. His practice focuses on medication management, however he allows space for supportive therapy and other therapeutic modalities within sessions. He may include a therapist in the treatment plan for optimal care.

I understand that seeking mental health treatment can sometimes seem like a task. Whether it’s your first time opening up or you’ve seen someone before, and now you have to retell your story all over again. Either way, you’ve taken a step in the right direction, and that’s to start the process of feeling better because MENTAL HEALTH IS NOT A TREND. IT IS A LIFESTYLE.
I understand that seeking mental health treatment can sometimes seem like a task. Whether it’s your first time opening up or you’ve seen someone before, and now you have to retell your story all over again. Either way, you’ve taken a step in the right direction, and that’s to start the process of feeling better because MENTAL HEALTH IS NOT A TREND. IT IS A LIFESTYLE.

Welcome to Anchor of Hope Psychiatry PLLC
At Anchor of Hope Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 10 and above across Texas through our convenient telehealth services.
Our practice offers thorough psychiatric evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans to address a variety of mental health conditions.
We look to work with you and your family to achieve symptom remission, enhance daily functioning, and improve overall well-being. We are committed to supporting you on your journey toward mental health treatment and care.
Welcome to Anchor of Hope Psychiatry PLLC
At Anchor of Hope Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 10 and above across Texas through our convenient telehealth services.
Our practice offers thorough psychiatric evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans to address a variety of mental health conditions.
We look to work with you and your family to achieve symptom remission, enhance daily functioning, and improve overall well-being. We are committed to supporting you on your journey toward mental health treatment and care.

Do you have concerns regarding your child/teen's behavioral health? Have you noticed them having increased struggles with starting and finishing their school work? Have teachers brought this to your attention? Are you having difficulty/ feel anxious when it comes to parenting them because of their destructive behaviors? Are you are afraid of medication or have concerns that your child believes meds are the only answer to their current issues? Schedule an evaluation today so that you can begin to consider the many reasons for your child's struggles and discuss options that can improve their learning and/or behaviors.
Do you have concerns regarding your child/teen's behavioral health? Have you noticed them having increased struggles with starting and finishing their school work? Have teachers brought this to your attention? Are you having difficulty/ feel anxious when it comes to parenting them because of their destructive behaviors? Are you are afraid of medication or have concerns that your child believes meds are the only answer to their current issues? Schedule an evaluation today so that you can begin to consider the many reasons for your child's struggles and discuss options that can improve their learning and/or behaviors.

Mindfulness Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
13 Endorsed
Online Only
We provide expert psychiatric care through both virtual visits in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, and in-person sessions at our Texas office. As experienced mental health providers, we deliver personalized medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health concerns. Our practice offers the perfect blend of professional expertise and compassionate care, creating a space where you'll feel understood and supported. With flexible scheduling and multiple care options, your path to mental wellness starts here. Let's work together to help you thrive and achieve lasting emotional balance.
We provide expert psychiatric care through both virtual visits in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, and in-person sessions at our Texas office. As experienced mental health providers, we deliver personalized medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health concerns. Our practice offers the perfect blend of professional expertise and compassionate care, creating a space where you'll feel understood and supported. With flexible scheduling and multiple care options, your path to mental wellness starts here. Let's work together to help you thrive and achieve lasting emotional balance.

Crystal Mind Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
17 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.

Vu Hoang is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing holistic healthcare and cultivating strong patient relationships to enhance overall well-being. With over eight years of experience as a registered nurse, he has gained expertise in various healthcare settings. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Master of Science degree from West Coast University. Vu has a particular interest in mood disorders.
Vu Hoang is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing holistic healthcare and cultivating strong patient relationships to enhance overall well-being. With over eight years of experience as a registered nurse, he has gained expertise in various healthcare settings. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Master of Science degree from West Coast University. Vu has a particular interest in mood disorders.

Dr. Ruchir Arvind is an Adult General psychiatrist. He is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing for 4 years. Dr. Arvind believes in collaborative and educational approaches to address his client’s needs. He believes that therapy is a foundational part in building a long term therapeutic relationship with his clients. He tries to put some educational part in helping his client’s to have a deeper understanding about their illness and related struggles and needs.
Dr. Ruchir Arvind is an Adult General psychiatrist. He is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing for 4 years. Dr. Arvind believes in collaborative and educational approaches to address his client’s needs. He believes that therapy is a foundational part in building a long term therapeutic relationship with his clients. He tries to put some educational part in helping his client’s to have a deeper understanding about their illness and related struggles and needs.

Dr. Farias is a board-certified physician in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, with a focus on the diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Farias graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston, majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She then pursued her medical education at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, earning her Doctor of Medicine degree. Dr. Farias completed a three-year psychiatric residency at TTUHSC, followed by fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry.
Dr. Farias is a board-certified physician in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, with a focus on the diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Farias graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston, majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She then pursued her medical education at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, earning her Doctor of Medicine degree. Dr. Farias completed a three-year psychiatric residency at TTUHSC, followed by fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry.

Dr. Richard McCall is board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of comprehensive experience delivering exceptional mental health services across various settings. He received his medical degree from University of Virginia School of Medicine and completed his Psychiatry residency training at Duke University School of Medicine.
Dr. Richard McCall is board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of comprehensive experience delivering exceptional mental health services across various settings. He received his medical degree from University of Virginia School of Medicine and completed his Psychiatry residency training at Duke University School of Medicine.

Dr. Tiffany Abtahi is board certified in adult psychiatry who has been in practice for over 6 years. She completed her residency at Icahn School of Medicine, Elmhurst Hospital Center program where she served as Chief Resident in her final year. After completing her residency training, Dr Abtahi worked as a staff psychiatrist in the VA Medical Center focusing on PTSD, depression and anxiety. Dr. Abtahi has held an academic appointment at University of UT Southwestern medical school and has spent her professional career supervising/teaching medical students and psychiatry residents.
Dr. Tiffany Abtahi is board certified in adult psychiatry who has been in practice for over 6 years. She completed her residency at Icahn School of Medicine, Elmhurst Hospital Center program where she served as Chief Resident in her final year. After completing her residency training, Dr Abtahi worked as a staff psychiatrist in the VA Medical Center focusing on PTSD, depression and anxiety. Dr. Abtahi has held an academic appointment at University of UT Southwestern medical school and has spent her professional career supervising/teaching medical students and psychiatry residents.

Dr. Gulati is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 10 years. She has worked in inpatient units, private practice, and community mental health, as well as served as Chief Medical Officer of a large psychiatric hospital. In 2018 she was awarded the Charleston Choice Award for Best Psychiatrist in Charleston, South Carolina. She currently resides in South Florida. Dr. Gulati's practice centers around treating the whole patient: mind, body, and spirit. She believes the judicious use of psychiatric medications, coupled with psychotherapy and alternative treatments such as meditation and yoga, can bring a
Dr. Gulati is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 10 years. She has worked in inpatient units, private practice, and community mental health, as well as served as Chief Medical Officer of a large psychiatric hospital. In 2018 she was awarded the Charleston Choice Award for Best Psychiatrist in Charleston, South Carolina. She currently resides in South Florida. Dr. Gulati's practice centers around treating the whole patient: mind, body, and spirit. She believes the judicious use of psychiatric medications, coupled with psychotherapy and alternative treatments such as meditation and yoga, can bring a

Cassandra Boduch, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing patient experiences. After completing a rigorous medical education and training at Texas A&M College of Medicine she received her Medical Doctorate and embarked on a career dedicated to patient care, research, and advocacy. She completed her psychiatry residency at UTHealth Houston, focusing on treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, and the specific psychiatric treatment of children and adolescents.
Cassandra Boduch, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing patient experiences. After completing a rigorous medical education and training at Texas A&M College of Medicine she received her Medical Doctorate and embarked on a career dedicated to patient care, research, and advocacy. She completed her psychiatry residency at UTHealth Houston, focusing on treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, and the specific psychiatric treatment of children and adolescents.

Dr. Zhou is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience practicing in various clinical settings with an emphasis on mental health care in outpatient settings. She practices a holistic approach in developing an individualized plan to work towards a patient's goals. Dr. Zhou is experienced in treating depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder along with generalized anxiety and other related psychiatric disorders. Dr. Zhou received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and completed her adult psychiatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport.
Dr. Zhou is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience practicing in various clinical settings with an emphasis on mental health care in outpatient settings. She practices a holistic approach in developing an individualized plan to work towards a patient's goals. Dr. Zhou is experienced in treating depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder along with generalized anxiety and other related psychiatric disorders. Dr. Zhou received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and completed her adult psychiatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport.

Dr. Kerry O'Leary is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who joined Talkiatry after she completed her psychiatry residency. Dr. O'Leary provides patient-centered care and understands the importance of actively involving patients in their treatment journey. She believes that every patient deserves personalized care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. She utilizes evidence-based treatments combined with a comprehensive approach to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors contributing to her patients' distress.
Dr. Kerry O'Leary is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who joined Talkiatry after she completed her psychiatry residency. Dr. O'Leary provides patient-centered care and understands the importance of actively involving patients in their treatment journey. She believes that every patient deserves personalized care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. She utilizes evidence-based treatments combined with a comprehensive approach to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors contributing to her patients' distress.

Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
91% | Bipolar Disorder |
87% | Medication Management |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
87% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX see their clients
64% | Online Only | |
36% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in McKinney?
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.