Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Teresa Harper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Teresa Harper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Antonio, TX 78209
I enjoy working with anyone that is engaged in their treatment and motivated to improve their mental well-being.
I enjoy working with anyone that is engaged in their treatment and motivated to improve their mental well-being.
(210) 405-9356 View (210) 405-9356
Photo of Jacquelyn Rodriguez - MedBerry Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
MedBerry Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
San Antonio, TX 78229
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the challenges of ADHD? You don’t have to navigate these difficult feelings alone. I offer a safe, supportive space where we can work together to explore what you're going through and find ways to help you feel better and more in control. Every step of the way, I'll be here to listen, understand, and guide you towards a healthier, more balanced life. This includes medication management, counseling and primary care services. When you're ready, reach out—I'm here for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the challenges of ADHD? You don’t have to navigate these difficult feelings alone. I offer a safe, supportive space where we can work together to explore what you're going through and find ways to help you feel better and more in control. Every step of the way, I'll be here to listen, understand, and guide you towards a healthier, more balanced life. This includes medication management, counseling and primary care services. When you're ready, reach out—I'm here for you.
(726) 216-2029 View (726) 216-2029
Photo of Melissa Deuter - Melissa Deuter, MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
(210) 871-0188 View (210) 871-0188
Photo of Jamal Daher, Physician Assistant, PA-BC
Jamal Daher
Physician Assistant, PA-BC
San Antonio, TX 78217
I Provide early morning sessions. Jamal believes that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Jamal Daher is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission for Certification of Physician Assistants and is licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners. Jamal completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2019. He also holds a Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio.
I Provide early morning sessions. Jamal believes that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Jamal Daher is a Physician Assistant certified by the National Commission for Certification of Physician Assistants and is licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners. Jamal completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2019. He also holds a Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio.
(210) 934-3320 View (210) 934-3320
Photo of Bettina Cordova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bettina Cordova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
(325) 936-1681 View (325) 936-1681
Photo of Alexandrea Wallace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Alexandrea Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
Alexandrea Wallace is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience providing quality and compassionate care as mental health registered nurse and licensed vocational nurse. She believes in providing holistic and individualized care to her clients. Alexandrea Wallace aims to effectively diagnose and treat clients with individualized treatment plans with pharmacological and non-pharmacological options.
Alexandrea Wallace is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience providing quality and compassionate care as mental health registered nurse and licensed vocational nurse. She believes in providing holistic and individualized care to her clients. Alexandrea Wallace aims to effectively diagnose and treat clients with individualized treatment plans with pharmacological and non-pharmacological options.
(726) 232-0964 View (726) 232-0964
Photo of Julia DeLeon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julia DeLeon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry, we are committed to providing the BEST of the BEST Mental and Behavioral Health Services to children (6+), teens/adolescents, & adult clients. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for our clients, helping them overcome mental barriers and truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our patient-focused approach that emphasizes the highest possible standards. Our purpose is to support, educate, & empower clients and their families by providing a safe and reliable place to share their problems & stories. Immediate appointments available! Call us today at 469-599-AURA
At Aura Psychiatry, we are committed to providing the BEST of the BEST Mental and Behavioral Health Services to children (6+), teens/adolescents, & adult clients. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for our clients, helping them overcome mental barriers and truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our patient-focused approach that emphasizes the highest possible standards. Our purpose is to support, educate, & empower clients and their families by providing a safe and reliable place to share their problems & stories. Immediate appointments available! Call us today at 469-599-AURA
(210) 864-8172 View (210) 864-8172
Photo of Dr. James T. Fuqua, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. James T. Fuqua
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting new patients, Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, corporate transitions, PTSD and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible.
Accepting new patients, Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, corporate transitions, PTSD and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible.
(210) 880-2350 View (210) 880-2350
Photo of Ijeoma Ononenyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Ijeoma Ononenyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
(210) 526-0432 View (210) 526-0432
Photo of Dr. Abigail Talley, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Abigail Talley
Psychiatrist, MD
San Antonio, TX 78209
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
(210) 382-6566 View (210) 382-6566
Photo of Elizabeth Ann Keller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, LPC, MS
Elizabeth Ann Keller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, LPC, MS
San Antonio, TX 78240
Hello, I'm Elizabeth Keller. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. I am board certified as a nurse practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatry. I am licensed as an LPC. And I am nationally certified as a hypnotherapist. I also teach self-hypnosis. I have been in private practice since 2010. I have been a nurse practitioner since 1983. I take a holistic approach and a wellness orientation with my clients. If you would like more details about my practice, my website is lifemotivationssa.com. My phone number (PLEASE TEXT ONLY) 210.473.1619/email: lifemotivationssa@gmail.com
Hello, I'm Elizabeth Keller. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. I am board certified as a nurse practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatry. I am licensed as an LPC. And I am nationally certified as a hypnotherapist. I also teach self-hypnosis. I have been in private practice since 2010. I have been a nurse practitioner since 1983. I take a holistic approach and a wellness orientation with my clients. If you would like more details about my practice, my website is lifemotivationssa.com. My phone number (PLEASE TEXT ONLY) 210.473.1619/email: lifemotivationssa@gmail.com
(210) 981-4873 View (210) 981-4873
Photo of John T Pichot, Psychiatrist, MD
John T Pichot
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
(210) 871-1169 View (210) 871-1169
Photo of Clarissa Chaisson-McRae, Psychiatrist, MD
Clarissa Chaisson-McRae
Psychiatrist, MD
San Antonio, TX 78229
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
(210) 903-8243 View (210) 903-8243
Ephraim Fombo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Antonio, TX 78230
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
(726) 207-9293 View (726) 207-9293
Photo of Dave Adeleye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH, BC
Dave Adeleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel overwhelmed with negative emotions? Are you or your child struggling with mental health issues? Do you feel helpless and believe that no one care or listens to you? The good news is that I am available! I am a doctorally prepared and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 2 decades of experience in psychiatry nursing. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD, mood disorders, substance use disorders, sleep disorders, and psychotic disorders
Do you feel overwhelmed with negative emotions? Are you or your child struggling with mental health issues? Do you feel helpless and believe that no one care or listens to you? The good news is that I am available! I am a doctorally prepared and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 2 decades of experience in psychiatry nursing. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD, mood disorders, substance use disorders, sleep disorders, and psychotic disorders
(210) 879-1691 View (210) 879-1691
Photo of Tracey Chantell Cawthorn, Psychiatrist, MD
Tracey Chantell Cawthorn
Psychiatrist, MD
San Antonio, TX 78228
I offer weight loss "skinny shots," medical marijuana (cannabis), ADD/ADHD medication management, anxiety medication management, addiction treatment, and psychotherapy. I focus on your goals and expectations as an individual. I provide a holistic approach to physical and mental wellness. There are very important factors to guide us to the healthier you.
I offer weight loss "skinny shots," medical marijuana (cannabis), ADD/ADHD medication management, anxiety medication management, addiction treatment, and psychotherapy. I focus on your goals and expectations as an individual. I provide a holistic approach to physical and mental wellness. There are very important factors to guide us to the healthier you.
(726) 232-5154 View (726) 232-5154
Photo of Anita Philip-Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anita Philip-Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas with extensive experience spanning 16 years in psychiatry. My specialization lies in providing comprehensive support to adults and older adults navigating complex mental health issues. I adopt a holistic approach that integrates the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual facets of health. In our collaborative efforts, I foster an empathetic and supportive environment aimed at empowering you to achieve growth and wellness beyond your diagnosis.
Hello! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas with extensive experience spanning 16 years in psychiatry. My specialization lies in providing comprehensive support to adults and older adults navigating complex mental health issues. I adopt a holistic approach that integrates the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual facets of health. In our collaborative efforts, I foster an empathetic and supportive environment aimed at empowering you to achieve growth and wellness beyond your diagnosis.
(210) 864-9959 View (210) 864-9959
Photo of Laura Bredvad - Healing Hands, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Healing Hands
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Antonio, TX 78223
With over seven years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I understand the profound impact mental health can have on your daily life. My approach is compassionate, straightforward, blending medication management with a focus on lifestyle, environment, and personal history. Born and raised on the south side of San Antonio, I’m passionate about serving my community and providing evidence-based, personalized care. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, my goal is to empower you with the tools and support needed to regain balance and well-being. Let's take the next step toward healing together.
With over seven years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I understand the profound impact mental health can have on your daily life. My approach is compassionate, straightforward, blending medication management with a focus on lifestyle, environment, and personal history. Born and raised on the south side of San Antonio, I’m passionate about serving my community and providing evidence-based, personalized care. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, my goal is to empower you with the tools and support needed to regain balance and well-being. Let's take the next step toward healing together.
(726) 207-9125 View (726) 207-9125
Photo of Monique Valle Gonzalez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMPHNP-
Monique Valle Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMPHNP-
San Antonio, TX 78237
My objective is to assist individuals facing mental health challenges by providing a safe, supportive environment that encourages comfort and openness throughout their treatment and recovery process. I am committed to supporting each person's ongoing personal development and well-being.
My objective is to assist individuals facing mental health challenges by providing a safe, supportive environment that encourages comfort and openness throughout their treatment and recovery process. I am committed to supporting each person's ongoing personal development and well-being.
(726) 230-8060 View (726) 230-8060
Doctor Ronald Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population. Dr Moore is an Associate Clinical Professor at Johns Hopkins University, South Alabama University, and Texas State University.
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population. Dr Moore is an Associate Clinical Professor at Johns Hopkins University, South Alabama University, and Texas State University.
(210) 941-3801 View (210) 941-3801

See more therapy options for San Antonio

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Medication Management
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
81% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Antonio?

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.