Psychiatrists in Richmond, TX

Photo of Dr. Mohammad Ashfaque - Houston Child and Adult Psychiatry Services , MD, Psychiatrist
Houston Child and Adult Psychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77407
Dr. Ashfaque's ideal client seeks clarity and healing from past trauma, aiming for personal growth and improved mental well-being. They want compassionate understanding, effective therapy, and practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges. Their goal is a fulfilling, balanced life with enhanced self-awareness and resilience.
Dr. Ashfaque's ideal client seeks clarity and healing from past trauma, aiming for personal growth and improved mental well-being. They want compassionate understanding, effective therapy, and practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges. Their goal is a fulfilling, balanced life with enhanced self-awareness and resilience.
(832) 220-1787 x102 View (832) 220-1787 x102
Photo of Aqeel Hashmi - @HealthTx, MD, Psychiatrist
@HealthTx
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77407
Dr. Aqeel Hashmi is board certified in Adult psychiatry with more than 20 years experience. Dr. Hashmi is currently Medical Director at Westpark Springs Hospital and at Fort Bend Greenbrook TMS. Appointments are currently available within 14 days.
Dr. Aqeel Hashmi is board certified in Adult psychiatry with more than 20 years experience. Dr. Hashmi is currently Medical Director at Westpark Springs Hospital and at Fort Bend Greenbrook TMS. Appointments are currently available within 14 days.
(832) 219-8224 View (832) 219-8224
Photo of Oluwadayo Adeyemo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oluwadayo Adeyemo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77469
Dayo Adeyemo is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Have been in healthcare for almost fifteen years, providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to various demography of patients. Dayo manages and treats a wide range of mental health disorders, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Dementia. Dayo provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management specifically tailored needs for each client according to their personal history and circumstances.
Dayo Adeyemo is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Have been in healthcare for almost fifteen years, providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to various demography of patients. Dayo manages and treats a wide range of mental health disorders, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Dementia. Dayo provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management specifically tailored needs for each client according to their personal history and circumstances.
(281) 559-7086 View (281) 559-7086
Photo of Sulaimon Shonibare, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sulaimon Shonibare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer holistic, personalized care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach integrates mental health expertise with a focus on the mind, body, and spirit, ensuring that treatment aligns with each client’s unique needs and goals. Through comprehensive evaluations, customized therapy, and thoughtful medication management, I empower clients to regain control of their mental health, fostering resilience, emotional balance, and a fulfilling life.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer holistic, personalized care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach integrates mental health expertise with a focus on the mind, body, and spirit, ensuring that treatment aligns with each client’s unique needs and goals. Through comprehensive evaluations, customized therapy, and thoughtful medication management, I empower clients to regain control of their mental health, fostering resilience, emotional balance, and a fulfilling life.
(832) 979-6266 View (832) 979-6266
Photo of Alice Jamen, PMHNPBC, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alice Jamen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.
Alice Kebeumen Jamen is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in psychiatry and mental health. She is pleased to offer psychiatric services to adolescents and adults.
(832) 345-6334 View (832) 345-6334
Photo of Funmilayo Akinrimisi - CrossEssence Mental Health Care Group, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CrossEssence Mental Health Care Group, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77469
Funmi Akinrimisi MSN, PMHNP-BC Funmi Akinrimisi is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate degree in Nursing at Texas Tech University and completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University. Before working in the NP role, Funmi has several years of experience in medical-surgical /Pediatric
Funmi Akinrimisi MSN, PMHNP-BC Funmi Akinrimisi is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate degree in Nursing at Texas Tech University and completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University. Before working in the NP role, Funmi has several years of experience in medical-surgical /Pediatric
(832) 966-7814 View (832) 966-7814
Photo of Onome Edokun, APRN, ACNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Onome Edokun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, ACNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
At Lights Health, we specialized in Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Safe and Compassionate care using Evidence Based practice to enhance the well-being of individuals struggling with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, postpartum depression, eating disorder and more. We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance with our patients built on trust, empathy and understanding. We create a safe space where individuals can express themselves without judgment. We will work with you to individualize the treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goal.
At Lights Health, we specialized in Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Safe and Compassionate care using Evidence Based practice to enhance the well-being of individuals struggling with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, postpartum depression, eating disorder and more. We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance with our patients built on trust, empathy and understanding. We create a safe space where individuals can express themselves without judgment. We will work with you to individualize the treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goal.
(832) 346-7662 View (832) 346-7662
Photo of Krystal Kalt, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krystal Kalt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
(346) 770-3357 View (346) 770-3357
Photo of Dr. Louise Baffour-Sebeh Agyemang, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Louise Baffour-Sebeh Agyemang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77407  (Online Only)
Dr. Agyemang is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner currently licensed in TX, CA, CO, UT, NV & WA. She graduated from University of Texas Health Science, Houston, Texas in 2014. She has 22 years of experience in the medical field, 10 years practicing as Psychiatric & Family nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience in psychiatric mental health both in pediatric, teenagers and geriatric population and effective management of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Substance abuse and Mood Disorders.
Dr. Agyemang is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner currently licensed in TX, CA, CO, UT, NV & WA. She graduated from University of Texas Health Science, Houston, Texas in 2014. She has 22 years of experience in the medical field, 10 years practicing as Psychiatric & Family nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience in psychiatric mental health both in pediatric, teenagers and geriatric population and effective management of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Substance abuse and Mood Disorders.
(832) 219-6398 View (832) 219-6398
Photo of Kenneth Ihaza, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kenneth Ihaza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77407  (Online Only)
A board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has been in practice since 2017.
A board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has been in practice since 2017.
(346) 660-4186 View (346) 660-4186
Photo of Jennifer Obodoechina, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Obodoechina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Jennifer and welcome to my practice. With over 13 years of experience across healthcare systems, my goal is to provide a safe space for you to share your emotions and thoughts without judgment and to provide patient-centric care. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, every mental health journey is unique. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that builds on your strengths, foster resilience & hope for a bright future. You don’t have to go through it alone. I’ll be with you every step of the way.
Hello, I’m Jennifer and welcome to my practice. With over 13 years of experience across healthcare systems, my goal is to provide a safe space for you to share your emotions and thoughts without judgment and to provide patient-centric care. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, every mental health journey is unique. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that builds on your strengths, foster resilience & hope for a bright future. You don’t have to go through it alone. I’ll be with you every step of the way.
(346) 496-4056 View (346) 496-4056
Photo of Oluchi Chukwurah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oluchi Chukwurah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77407  (Online Only)
I am a Tri-Board Certified Psychiatric, Family, Emergency Room Nurse Practitioner. I have over 12 years of combined nursing experience in various health care settings.
I am a Tri-Board Certified Psychiatric, Family, Emergency Room Nurse Practitioner. I have over 12 years of combined nursing experience in various health care settings.
(832) 219-6903 View (832) 219-6903
Photo of Sophie Mbua - Gold Mind Psychiatry PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gold Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
My name is Sophie Mbua, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with many years of experience. Do you struggle with mood irregularities, feeling sad, unmotivated and loss of interest in activities you love?, Do you feel unease, restless, constantly worrying about the unknown, feeling of impending doom?, Have you experienced traumatic events which affect your well-being?. Are you ready to be in control of your mental health? I create a partnership with my clients to help them succeed at their goals and get the outcome that works best for them. Clients will also receive tools and strategies to help them succeed
My name is Sophie Mbua, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with many years of experience. Do you struggle with mood irregularities, feeling sad, unmotivated and loss of interest in activities you love?, Do you feel unease, restless, constantly worrying about the unknown, feeling of impending doom?, Have you experienced traumatic events which affect your well-being?. Are you ready to be in control of your mental health? I create a partnership with my clients to help them succeed at their goals and get the outcome that works best for them. Clients will also receive tools and strategies to help them succeed
(832) 583-1376 View (832) 583-1376
Photo of Linda Ejem - OlivePath Psychiatry Services Pllc, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
OlivePath Psychiatry Services Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
Book with me now using my website. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Texas, I specialize in offering teletherapy services aimed at helping individuals struggling with a myriad of mental health challenges. If you're feeling out of place, severely depressed, or consumed by hopelessness, know that there is hope, and you're not alone. My practice is dedicated to guiding you through the journey towards mental wellness, offering compassionate support and evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique needs.
Book with me now using my website. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Texas, I specialize in offering teletherapy services aimed at helping individuals struggling with a myriad of mental health challenges. If you're feeling out of place, severely depressed, or consumed by hopelessness, know that there is hope, and you're not alone. My practice is dedicated to guiding you through the journey towards mental wellness, offering compassionate support and evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique needs.
(832) 990-0913 View (832) 990-0913
Photo of Krystal Kalt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krystal Kalt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
(346) 476-4527 View (346) 476-4527
Photo of Madiha Syed, MD, Psychiatrist
Madiha Syed
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77469
Madiha Syed is a Psychiatrist in Texas with three years of experience. She completed her Residency at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Michigan and then completed an Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, New York. Madiha believes in an integrated approach to both mind and body. She is a board-certified Psychiatrist with special interest in addictions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma related mental health. Madiha practices medication management with involvement of therapy and coaching in sessions.
Madiha Syed is a Psychiatrist in Texas with three years of experience. She completed her Residency at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Michigan and then completed an Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, New York. Madiha believes in an integrated approach to both mind and body. She is a board-certified Psychiatrist with special interest in addictions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma related mental health. Madiha practices medication management with involvement of therapy and coaching in sessions.
(862) 362-2013 View (862) 362-2013
Photo of Agnes Benjamin, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Agnes Benjamin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77469
Agnes Benjamin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She received her first MSN with concentration in Leadership and Management from Walden University and her Post Master's as a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. Agnes meets her patients where they are and helps them attain their highest level of well-being. She collaborates with multi-disciplinary teams while maintaining professional boundaries and therapeutic relationships with patients. Agnes provides unique approaches to addressing underlying psychological issues coping skills and life stresses.
Agnes Benjamin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She received her first MSN with concentration in Leadership and Management from Walden University and her Post Master's as a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. Agnes meets her patients where they are and helps them attain their highest level of well-being. She collaborates with multi-disciplinary teams while maintaining professional boundaries and therapeutic relationships with patients. Agnes provides unique approaches to addressing underlying psychological issues coping skills and life stresses.
(346) 567-6929 View (346) 567-6929
Photo of Izuchukwu Emejulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Izuchukwu Emejulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77469
I am a nationally credentialed and board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from University of South Alabama with certification to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I also have an additional specialization as a DEA certified Buprenorphine practitioner with vast knowledge and experience in treating patients with opioid use disorders.
I am a nationally credentialed and board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from University of South Alabama with certification to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I also have an additional specialization as a DEA certified Buprenorphine practitioner with vast knowledge and experience in treating patients with opioid use disorders.
(281) 801-8612 View (281) 801-8612
Photo of Elizabeth Emebo - Jozir Mental Health Services Pllc, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jozir Mental Health Services Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77469
Accepting new clients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Minnesota and Oregon. Have you been wanting to speak to a professional but have been reluctant? You are not alone! We understand mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. We are dedicated to promoting the holistic well-being of our clients. Additionally, there is evening and weekend availability for services. Appointments can be requested on our website!
Accepting new clients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Minnesota and Oregon. Have you been wanting to speak to a professional but have been reluctant? You are not alone! We understand mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. We are dedicated to promoting the holistic well-being of our clients. Additionally, there is evening and weekend availability for services. Appointments can be requested on our website!
(346) 525-3832 View (346) 525-3832
Photo of Gabriel Obu, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
(281) 502-2790 View (281) 502-2790
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Richmond, TX

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Richmond, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Trauma and PTSD
61% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
91% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Richmond, TX see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Richmond?

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.