Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX

Photo of Sandrine Ntsang @ Tp Health Clinic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Sandrine Ntsang @ Tp Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
Hello, I'm Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang, a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Cameroon, I began my nursing career in Italy, specializing in neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatrics, home health, and wound care. With three years in the ICU, I pursued and earned my MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. Committed to personalized patient care, I collaborate with healthcare experts for comprehensive solutions. Beyond mental health, I provide medical and oncological nursing assistance. Join me on this journey toward holistic well-being.
Hello, I'm Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang, a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Cameroon, I began my nursing career in Italy, specializing in neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatrics, home health, and wound care. With three years in the ICU, I pursued and earned my MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. Committed to personalized patient care, I collaborate with healthcare experts for comprehensive solutions. Beyond mental health, I provide medical and oncological nursing assistance. Join me on this journey toward holistic well-being.
(832) 916-2677 View (832) 916-2677
Photo of Fahd Rawra @ Tp Health Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist
Fahd Rawra @ Tp Health Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
Greetings! I'm Dr. Fahd Rawra, MD, a seasoned Psychiatry Specialist practicing in Riverstone, TX, with over two decades of experience in the field of mental health. I earned my medical degree from Dow Medical College Karachi in 2003 and have since been on a fulfilling journey dedicated to psychiatry. My commitment to excellence led me to the University of Texas, Houston, where I completed my Internship in 2008 and Residency in 2011, further enriching my skills and knowledge. I take pride in achieving Board Certification in Psychiatry, a testament to my dedication to providing top-notch care.
Greetings! I'm Dr. Fahd Rawra, MD, a seasoned Psychiatry Specialist practicing in Riverstone, TX, with over two decades of experience in the field of mental health. I earned my medical degree from Dow Medical College Karachi in 2003 and have since been on a fulfilling journey dedicated to psychiatry. My commitment to excellence led me to the University of Texas, Houston, where I completed my Internship in 2008 and Residency in 2011, further enriching my skills and knowledge. I take pride in achieving Board Certification in Psychiatry, a testament to my dedication to providing top-notch care.
(832) 734-7285 View (832) 734-7285
Photo of Sherry Grogan, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherry Grogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
I specialize in diagnosing and treating individuals facing anxiety and mood disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, OCD, psychotic disorders, life transitions, relationship challenges, and work or academic issues within the context of underlying mental health conditions. With over 13 years of experience as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Master Psychopharmacologist, I integrate the best of psychiatric medical and nursing care. I work collaboratively with each individual, and we develop personalized treatment plans that support your journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating individuals facing anxiety and mood disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, OCD, psychotic disorders, life transitions, relationship challenges, and work or academic issues within the context of underlying mental health conditions. With over 13 years of experience as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Master Psychopharmacologist, I integrate the best of psychiatric medical and nursing care. I work collaboratively with each individual, and we develop personalized treatment plans that support your journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(832) 536-8703 View (832) 536-8703
Photo of Lynka Smith, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynka Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
No need to leave home, I offer appointment by video. My nursing career began as a Naval Nurse Corps officer, caring for mentally ill military members, this is where my interest began. I obtained a PMHNP degree. I treat all psychiatric/mental health conditions & can prescribe medications. We will work as a team to find the best treatment options for you. Please visit my site for answers to your questions.
No need to leave home, I offer appointment by video. My nursing career began as a Naval Nurse Corps officer, caring for mentally ill military members, this is where my interest began. I obtained a PMHNP degree. I treat all psychiatric/mental health conditions & can prescribe medications. We will work as a team to find the best treatment options for you. Please visit my site for answers to your questions.
(832) 906-8640 View (832) 906-8640
Photo of Inger Daniels - Moving Forward Psychiatry, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Moving Forward Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77489
Feelings of constant worry and fear can be crippling. When sadness and hopelessness keep you from enjoying life, talking to a professional can relieve some of the burden. If mood swings, irritability and agitation are interfering with your relationships it is important to seek help. We are here to listen and guide you through the process. Our goal is to help clients be informed and involved in their care decisions.
Feelings of constant worry and fear can be crippling. When sadness and hopelessness keep you from enjoying life, talking to a professional can relieve some of the burden. If mood swings, irritability and agitation are interfering with your relationships it is important to seek help. We are here to listen and guide you through the process. Our goal is to help clients be informed and involved in their care decisions.
(832) 737-8467 View (832) 737-8467
Photo of Ashley Bednorz, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Bednorz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to provide mental health care across the lifespan. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After working 8 years as a nurse, I received my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner license after graduating from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2023.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to provide mental health care across the lifespan. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After working 8 years as a nurse, I received my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner license after graduating from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2023.
(281) 572-5286 View (281) 572-5286
Photo of Janet Zoch, MD, Psychiatrist
Janet Zoch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
In building a relationship with my patients, I take a comprehensive, collaborative and compassionate approach. I take the time to get to know each person both as an individual but also within the context of their family and outside relationships. I began my private practice to allow me to take the time necessary to get to know my patients and provide personalized, quality care.
In building a relationship with my patients, I take a comprehensive, collaborative and compassionate approach. I take the time to get to know each person both as an individual but also within the context of their family and outside relationships. I began my private practice to allow me to take the time necessary to get to know my patients and provide personalized, quality care.
(346) 476-5480 View (346) 476-5480
Photo of Prashant Gajwani - Mind Matters Psychiatry/ Dr. Prashant Gajwani, MD, Psychiatrist
Mind Matters Psychiatry/ Dr. Prashant Gajwani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
Living with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health challenges can often feel like you're just going through the motions. However, with the right treatments and support, you can regain control and find joy again. As the Medical Director of Mind Matters Psychiatry, I adopt a holistic approach to healing, focusing on your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our compassionate, patient-centered philosophy ensures that everyone receives a tailored, comprehensive care plan that balances mental health and social needs with traditional treatment options. Together, we can work towards a brighter future.
Living with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health challenges can often feel like you're just going through the motions. However, with the right treatments and support, you can regain control and find joy again. As the Medical Director of Mind Matters Psychiatry, I adopt a holistic approach to healing, focusing on your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our compassionate, patient-centered philosophy ensures that everyone receives a tailored, comprehensive care plan that balances mental health and social needs with traditional treatment options. Together, we can work towards a brighter future.
(832) 583-2198 x1 View (832) 583-2198 x1
Photo of Mark Lidasan, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Lidasan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I believed in integrated mental health care to optimize your mental health. I accept clients with psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and used evidence-based in the management of care. I am compassionate to help you and continually seek the best treatment available. We listen and utilize holistic approaches to provide mental health and wellness.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I believed in integrated mental health care to optimize your mental health. I accept clients with psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and used evidence-based in the management of care. I am compassionate to help you and continually seek the best treatment available. We listen and utilize holistic approaches to provide mental health and wellness.
(281) 626-5858 View (281) 626-5858
Photo of Vita Chung, DNP, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vita Chung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Vita Chung is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over ten years (as of 2021) of nursing experience in Psychiatric Mental Health. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees from the UT Health San Antonio, formerly named the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Chung completed her clinical training in a wide range of psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and strives to provide up-to-date evidence-based treatment options.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Vita Chung is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over ten years (as of 2021) of nursing experience in Psychiatric Mental Health. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees from the UT Health San Antonio, formerly named the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Chung completed her clinical training in a wide range of psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and strives to provide up-to-date evidence-based treatment options.
(281) 214-8218 View (281) 214-8218
Photo of Francis Mbella Manga @tp-Health Clinic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francis Mbella Manga @tp-Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in California. I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years now.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in California. I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years now.
(832) 916-2677 View (832) 916-2677
Photo of Linda Emeghebo, MS,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Emeghebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
Linda Emeghebo is a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who serves patients across Texas. She provides a safe, empathetic space for individuals experiencing emotional distress, life challenges, or complex mental health conditions. Whether it’s through medication management or individualized therapy, Linda offers personalized care that meets the unique needs of her patients. She works with a diverse age range, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that her approach is inclusive and adaptable to various life stages.
Linda Emeghebo is a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who serves patients across Texas. She provides a safe, empathetic space for individuals experiencing emotional distress, life challenges, or complex mental health conditions. Whether it’s through medication management or individualized therapy, Linda offers personalized care that meets the unique needs of her patients. She works with a diverse age range, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that her approach is inclusive and adaptable to various life stages.
(855) 628-5301 View (855) 628-5301
Photo of Adedamola Adefioye, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adedamola Adefioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Adedamola "Ade" Adefioye, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 8 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field. I manage and treat adolescents and adults with various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sleep disorders.
I am Adedamola "Ade" Adefioye, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 8 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field. I manage and treat adolescents and adults with various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sleep disorders.
(281) 719-9117 View (281) 719-9117
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(832) 743-2505 View (832) 743-2505
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(737) 727-2617 View (737) 727-2617
Photo of Stephanie Sim, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephanie Sim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
(832) 377-7999 View (832) 377-7999
Photo of John Bouras, MD, Psychiatrist
John Bouras
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 21 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Counseling, Social Anxiety Disorder. I am a Board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience in diverse clinical settings. For patients who are experiencing treatment resistant depression, we now have TMS in the office! Please contact us to see if you qualify for this advanced treatment.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 21 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Counseling, Social Anxiety Disorder. I am a Board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience in diverse clinical settings. For patients who are experiencing treatment resistant depression, we now have TMS in the office! Please contact us to see if you qualify for this advanced treatment.
(832) 990-8282 View (832) 990-8282
Photo of Alina Naik - Alina Naik - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry , MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alina Naik - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77489
Not accepting new clients
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
(832) 536-6494 View (832) 536-6494
Photo of Esther Nkwanyuo, PMHNP,  , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esther Nkwanyuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
(281) 475-4218 View (281) 475-4218
Photo of Helen Ariwodo - Blossom Health Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blossom Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Helen, and I have 5 years of experience working in a psychiatric mental health hospital. I have worked with different hospitals in Texas and with different age groups from adolescents to geriatrics. I am very passionate about the mental health state and well-being of my patients and most especially the safety of my patients is very paramount to me. I hold a degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified here in Texas.
My name is Helen, and I have 5 years of experience working in a psychiatric mental health hospital. I have worked with different hospitals in Texas and with different age groups from adolescents to geriatrics. I am very passionate about the mental health state and well-being of my patients and most especially the safety of my patients is very paramount to me. I hold a degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified here in Texas.
(346) 472-2734 View (346) 472-2734
1

See more therapy options for Missouri City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
95% Bipolar Disorder
76% Trauma and PTSD
74% ADHD
66% Medication Management
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Missouri City?

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.