Psychiatrists in Mesquite, TX

Photo of Oluremi Cole, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oluremi Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75149
I am Oluremi Cole, a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I have a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. I work with adults, and older adults. I am experienced in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions.
I am Oluremi Cole, a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I have a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. I work with adults, and older adults. I am experienced in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions.
(972) 810-3679 View (972) 810-3679
Photo of Keyna Omenukor - Krystal Family Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krystal Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
Krystal Family Clinic, LLC., was founded by Dr. Keyna Omenukor, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, who felt the need for a family practice in the community, one that would serve a wide range of medical needs. We are dedicated to caring for patients with acute and chronic diseases. Krystal Family Clinic also offers psychiatric services covering assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders aimed at the total restoration of the entire human personality. We strive to meet the specific needs of individual clients/patients.
Krystal Family Clinic, LLC., was founded by Dr. Keyna Omenukor, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, who felt the need for a family practice in the community, one that would serve a wide range of medical needs. We are dedicated to caring for patients with acute and chronic diseases. Krystal Family Clinic also offers psychiatric services covering assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders aimed at the total restoration of the entire human personality. We strive to meet the specific needs of individual clients/patients.
(972) 992-1495 View (972) 992-1495
Photo of Dr. Marion Talam - Neema Psychiatry PLLC     , DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Neema Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
Are you suffering from: anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, or other mental health conditions? Do they hold you back from living a balanced, stable life? We invite you to learn more about your treatment options available on your path to recovery. Call us at (469)-630-8830 to schedule your appointment for a free, confidential assessment today. Or visit us at our website to book an appointment. We are a full-service psychiatric facility that puts our patients’ care at the center of what we do, collaborating individually with every person to provide a treatment plan that works with them and their schedule.
Are you suffering from: anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, or other mental health conditions? Do they hold you back from living a balanced, stable life? We invite you to learn more about your treatment options available on your path to recovery. Call us at (469)-630-8830 to schedule your appointment for a free, confidential assessment today. Or visit us at our website to book an appointment. We are a full-service psychiatric facility that puts our patients’ care at the center of what we do, collaborating individually with every person to provide a treatment plan that works with them and their schedule.
(469) 966-2363 View (469) 966-2363
Photo of Chika Agina - Guardian Angels Clinic , DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guardian Angels Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
I am a mental health professional, passionate about helping individuals and families in their mental health journey. I have expertise in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Trauma issues, Eating and Sleeping disorders, Addictive disorders, Spirituality, Life transitions, and Relational problems. Please contact me for a personal consult.
I am a mental health professional, passionate about helping individuals and families in their mental health journey. I have expertise in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Trauma issues, Eating and Sleeping disorders, Addictive disorders, Spirituality, Life transitions, and Relational problems. Please contact me for a personal consult.
(682) 382-9962 View (682) 382-9962
Photo of Keyna Omenukor, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keyna Omenukor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
Dr. Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose training and experience have equipped her with the necessary skill to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to optimize health outcomes. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree & Doctorate in addition to her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Brandman University.
Dr. Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose training and experience have equipped her with the necessary skill to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to optimize health outcomes. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree & Doctorate in addition to her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Brandman University.
(972) 483-2941 View (972) 483-2941
Photo of Uche Uka, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uche Uka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
Dr. Uche Uka is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with ten years of work experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Mary Hardin, Baylor, a Master of Science in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of South Alabama. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to find the most suitable treatment model based on their diagnoses and mental health needs. These include pharmacological interventions where we discuss treatment goals and guide patient to take approved medications to help them meet their therapeutic goal
Dr. Uche Uka is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with ten years of work experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Mary Hardin, Baylor, a Master of Science in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of South Alabama. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to find the most suitable treatment model based on their diagnoses and mental health needs. These include pharmacological interventions where we discuss treatment goals and guide patient to take approved medications to help them meet their therapeutic goal
(972) 236-7810 View (972) 236-7810
Photo of Comfort N. Ebozue, MSN,  APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Comfort N. Ebozue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: Comfort N. Ebozue is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a specialist in treating Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Older Adults with mental and behavioral issues. She graduated from Walden University with MSN and University of Phoenix with BSN. Comfort E. has over 36-years’ experience working with Children, Teenagers, and Adults. She takes pride in providing care to children, teenagers, and adults struggling with mental illnesses. She works with adults and families struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma and other emotional disorders.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: Comfort N. Ebozue is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a specialist in treating Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Older Adults with mental and behavioral issues. She graduated from Walden University with MSN and University of Phoenix with BSN. Comfort E. has over 36-years’ experience working with Children, Teenagers, and Adults. She takes pride in providing care to children, teenagers, and adults struggling with mental illnesses. She works with adults and families struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma and other emotional disorders.
(972) 882-9282 View (972) 882-9282
Photo of Ekeoma Cooper - RoAnn Behavioral Health Clinic, DNP, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
RoAnn Behavioral Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
My ability to actively listen and communicate effectively allows me to alleviate patient and family concerns, fostering a sense of trust and comfort during challenging times. I'm licensed in both Texas and New Mexico states. My extensive experience, compassionate approach, and collaborative spirit position me as a valuable asset in the pursuit of optimal healthcare outcomes.
My ability to actively listen and communicate effectively allows me to alleviate patient and family concerns, fostering a sense of trust and comfort during challenging times. I'm licensed in both Texas and New Mexico states. My extensive experience, compassionate approach, and collaborative spirit position me as a valuable asset in the pursuit of optimal healthcare outcomes.
(972) 905-9875 View (972) 905-9875
Photo of Odochi Onungwa - Nextgen Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nextgen Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75150  (Online Only)
Dr. Odochi Onungwa is a highly trained and experienced practitioners with a proven background in the treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our goal is to restore the whole person including the body, psyche, brain, and soul.
Dr. Odochi Onungwa is a highly trained and experienced practitioners with a proven background in the treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our goal is to restore the whole person including the body, psyche, brain, and soul.
(214) 239-4282 View (214) 239-4282
Photo of Chika Getrude Agina, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chika Getrude Agina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75181  (Online Only)
Persons with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, and adolescent issues who are seeking good mental health providers to help them will be in good hands with me.
Persons with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, and adolescent issues who are seeking good mental health providers to help them will be in good hands with me.
(972) 430-5547 View (972) 430-5547
Photo of Theophilus Uka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theophilus Uka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75150  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client would be someone who is dedicated to their mental well-being, personal growth, and healing journey, willing to participate in self-reflection, and actively play a part in the therapeutic process. Some issues that my idyllic client might face are struggles with anxiety or depression, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Their primary goal would be to improve their overall mental health and well-being and in need of guidance and expertise to attain this goal. The client would need to develop coping strategies and find a sense of balance.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client would be someone who is dedicated to their mental well-being, personal growth, and healing journey, willing to participate in self-reflection, and actively play a part in the therapeutic process. Some issues that my idyllic client might face are struggles with anxiety or depression, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Their primary goal would be to improve their overall mental health and well-being and in need of guidance and expertise to attain this goal. The client would need to develop coping strategies and find a sense of balance.
(469) 966-1272 View (469) 966-1272
Photo of Irene Uke - Alpha Mental Health Services LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alpha Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149
Accepting SAME day appointments with no wait, in person or virtually . My mission is to provide quality and culturally competent care. Are you depressed, hurting, or having trouble sleeping? Are you easily irritated and stressed out? You don't have to keep suffering. We can help you. Our providers are working in collaboration with an MD who has has numerous years of psychiatric experience. I treat the whole patient and approach our patients with empathy, and compassion. Medication often gives quicker relief, however with our hard work, together with brief solution-focused therapy, we will have the best hope for healing.
Accepting SAME day appointments with no wait, in person or virtually . My mission is to provide quality and culturally competent care. Are you depressed, hurting, or having trouble sleeping? Are you easily irritated and stressed out? You don't have to keep suffering. We can help you. Our providers are working in collaboration with an MD who has has numerous years of psychiatric experience. I treat the whole patient and approach our patients with empathy, and compassion. Medication often gives quicker relief, however with our hard work, together with brief solution-focused therapy, we will have the best hope for healing.
(469) 908-3417 View (469) 908-3417
Photo of Olufunke Oludipe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olufunke Oludipe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
My decision to pursue a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is driven by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. I have had the opportunity to work closely with patients experiencing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I am looking forward to utilizing a holistic approach to providing care, combining medical management with psychotherapy.
My decision to pursue a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is driven by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. I have had the opportunity to work closely with patients experiencing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I am looking forward to utilizing a holistic approach to providing care, combining medical management with psychotherapy.
(469) 654-3938 View (469) 654-3938
Photo of Martha Ego Ozo - New Horizon Psychiatry, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Horizon Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
Clients who present with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, would want to achieve both short term and long term goals with a positive outcome in their quest for mental health wellness.
Clients who present with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, would want to achieve both short term and long term goals with a positive outcome in their quest for mental health wellness.
(469) 966-0103 View (469) 966-0103
Photo of Emmanuella Edekobi, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emmanuella Edekobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
(505) 672-7660 View (505) 672-7660
Photo of Satang Ann - Inner Self Behavioral Health, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inner Self Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. No WAIT List. AFTER Hours and Weekend Appointments Available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, and Medicare in Texas. Private Pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients where they are WITHOUT making them feel judged. During our initial session, we will talk about what led you to me, and at the end of the session, we will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments.
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. No WAIT List. AFTER Hours and Weekend Appointments Available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, and Medicare in Texas. Private Pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients where they are WITHOUT making them feel judged. During our initial session, we will talk about what led you to me, and at the end of the session, we will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments.
(817) 663-1202 View (817) 663-1202
Photo of Eunice Bitutu Ontita - Healing Souls Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Souls Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149
At Healing Souls psychiatry, we strive for the best experience by offering non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic mental and behavioral health services. Our goal is to help you lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle. We believe in individualized therapeutic services to meet specific needs of our clients.
At Healing Souls psychiatry, we strive for the best experience by offering non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic mental and behavioral health services. Our goal is to help you lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle. We believe in individualized therapeutic services to meet specific needs of our clients.
(972) 433-9895 View (972) 433-9895
Photo of Ekaete Oyeka, APN, NP, RXN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ekaete Oyeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, NP, RXN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Eka. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, school, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or others? I believe in each client's uniqueness and ensure a holistic treatment based on individual needs. I specialize in treating psychiatric disorders, including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I am very passionate about contributing to the improvement of the community's health by utilizing an evidence-based approach to mental health care
Hi there, I'm Eka. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, school, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or others? I believe in each client's uniqueness and ensure a holistic treatment based on individual needs. I specialize in treating psychiatric disorders, including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I am very passionate about contributing to the improvement of the community's health by utilizing an evidence-based approach to mental health care
(737) 316-3763 View (737) 316-3763
Photo of Kimberly Dobbins, MD, Psychiatrist
Kimberly Dobbins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
Dr. Dobbins brings over a decade of experience and is double board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. In addition to her previous experience as a professor at UT Southwestern in Dallas, her experience comes from multiple care settings to include high acuity Psychiatric ER, VA outpatient mental health clinic and a community Child Psychiatry clinic. Dr. Dobbins will lead the BasePoint Academy’s client treatment as well as seeing patients individually in BasePoint Psychiatry and Wellness.
Dr. Dobbins brings over a decade of experience and is double board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. In addition to her previous experience as a professor at UT Southwestern in Dallas, her experience comes from multiple care settings to include high acuity Psychiatric ER, VA outpatient mental health clinic and a community Child Psychiatry clinic. Dr. Dobbins will lead the BasePoint Academy’s client treatment as well as seeing patients individually in BasePoint Psychiatry and Wellness.
(972) 430-6151 View (972) 430-6151
Photo of NJ Njideka Domrufus, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
NJ Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75180
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(972) 559-3273 View (972) 559-3273
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Mesquite, TX

20+

Average cost per session

$167

Psychiatrists in Mesquite, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Psychosis
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
90% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Mesquite, TX see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Mesquite?

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.