Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Salvi Marie Alday, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Salvi Marie Alday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
Mental illness is stigmatized, taboo, or scandalous in most cultures. You matter, and You are Worthy. Ask for Help. Rewire your Brain. Break the Silence. Visit my website- www.passionpurposecmhs.org
Mental illness is stigmatized, taboo, or scandalous in most cultures. You matter, and You are Worthy. Ask for Help. Rewire your Brain. Break the Silence. Visit my website- www.passionpurposecmhs.org
(210) 405-8391 View (210) 405-8391
Photo of Rhiannon Soukup, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhiannon Soukup
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Taking NEW Patients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner looking to build my clientele. I am located at Phoenix Mental Health. I see adult, child and adolescent patients. I have worked in behavioral health since 2009 and it is my passion. I have been told that I am easy to talk to and patients have been known to easily open up to me. I want my patients to feel like they are comfortable and safe when they are with me and are talking to just another human being and not in a hospital or office setting. Come see me so we can start your journey to feeling better!
Taking NEW Patients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner looking to build my clientele. I am located at Phoenix Mental Health. I see adult, child and adolescent patients. I have worked in behavioral health since 2009 and it is my passion. I have been told that I am easy to talk to and patients have been known to easily open up to me. I want my patients to feel like they are comfortable and safe when they are with me and are talking to just another human being and not in a hospital or office setting. Come see me so we can start your journey to feeling better!
(210) 934-7018 View (210) 934-7018
Photo of Sheila Trish Morgan-Freeman - Whole Life Behavioral Health, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Whole Life Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78261  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.
(817) 904-9017 View (817) 904-9017
Photo of Brittany Manor, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Manor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78218  (Online Only)
Brittany Manor is the founder and owner of Manor Behavioral Health providing virtual services in Texas, Colorado & North Dakota. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience in assessing & treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings helping client feel safe and empowered to achieve mental freedom.
Brittany Manor is the founder and owner of Manor Behavioral Health providing virtual services in Texas, Colorado & North Dakota. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience in assessing & treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings helping client feel safe and empowered to achieve mental freedom.
(346) 248-2567 View (346) 248-2567
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions can often feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and seek lasting solutions. They want an approach that acknowledges their unique experiences while providing practical tools to achieve balance and well-being. Together, we will create a plan that supports your journey toward a more peaceful and fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive and move confidently toward your goals.
Managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions can often feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take control of their mental health and seek lasting solutions. They want an approach that acknowledges their unique experiences while providing practical tools to achieve balance and well-being. Together, we will create a plan that supports your journey toward a more peaceful and fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive and move confidently toward your goals.
(726) 227-6009 View (726) 227-6009
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
(726) 232-5119 View (726) 232-5119
Photo of Raven Aleman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Raven Aleman
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Raven Aleman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and from University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Most recently, she earned a Doctorate in Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University with an emphasis in Psychiatric Mental Health. Raven takes a collaborative approach and encourages patients to be active participants in their care. Raven enjoys problem-solving with patients and discovering what motivates them to live and be well.
Dr. Raven Aleman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and from University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Most recently, she earned a Doctorate in Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University with an emphasis in Psychiatric Mental Health. Raven takes a collaborative approach and encourages patients to be active participants in their care. Raven enjoys problem-solving with patients and discovering what motivates them to live and be well.
(830) 254-7953 View (830) 254-7953
Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
(210) 742-5163 View (210) 742-5163
Photo of Nicholas Gaultney, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicholas Gaultney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Are you struggling to cope with the demands of daily life? Are you experiencing sadness or lack of joy, but you don’t know why? Do you lack the motivation to do things that you usually enjoy or find that the things that used to interest you are now uninteresting? Maybe you find yourself worrying all the time - about something specific or about anything and everything. Do you experience more stress than you need to because you put things off till the last minute? Perhaps you can’t stay focused long enough to finish all the things that you need to finish.
Are you struggling to cope with the demands of daily life? Are you experiencing sadness or lack of joy, but you don’t know why? Do you lack the motivation to do things that you usually enjoy or find that the things that used to interest you are now uninteresting? Maybe you find yourself worrying all the time - about something specific or about anything and everything. Do you experience more stress than you need to because you put things off till the last minute? Perhaps you can’t stay focused long enough to finish all the things that you need to finish.
(210) 934-2796 View (210) 934-2796
Photo of Dr. Johanna V Nardini - Bravo Mind Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Bravo Mind Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
Children, teens, and young adults often struggle when facing new experiences and developmental transitions. Through these challenges they learn more about themselves and the type of individual they wish to become. Several of my patients appear content when viewed outwardly, but privately are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other emotional concerns. Behavioral health interventions in the form of medication or talk therapy can be very powerful tools to help overcome these hurdles.
Children, teens, and young adults often struggle when facing new experiences and developmental transitions. Through these challenges they learn more about themselves and the type of individual they wish to become. Several of my patients appear content when viewed outwardly, but privately are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other emotional concerns. Behavioral health interventions in the form of medication or talk therapy can be very powerful tools to help overcome these hurdles.
(726) 207-9631 View (726) 207-9631
Photo of Clarissa Chaisson-McRae, MD, Psychiatrist
Clarissa Chaisson-McRae
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Farheen Makani - Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aura Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & 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 & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & 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 & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
(210) 864-8172 View (210) 864-8172
Photo of Eric D. Seilhamer Jr., DNP, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric D. Seilhamer Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
(210) 468-7099 View (210) 468-7099
Photo of Delia Sanchez Patino, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Delia Sanchez Patino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
(210) 864-5947 View (210) 864-5947
Photo of Dr. Brandi Milmo @ Wisemind, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Brandi Milmo @ Wisemind
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Dr. Brandi Milmo is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Antonio. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the physician-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! Dr. Brandi Milmo is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Antonio. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and values the physician-patient relationship as the most important factor in helping patients reach their treatment goals.
(210) 794-7827 View (210) 794-7827
Photo of Dr. Susan Wynne, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Susan Wynne
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
I am a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and ADHD. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. I strive to provide exemplary and professional treatment to my patients and their families.
(210) 615-8900 View (210) 615-8900
Photo of Dr. Abigail Talley, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Abigail Talley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Steve Scott, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steve Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Mental health problems are challenging in so many ways. I can help you navigate evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management in a patient-centered manner. I am passionate about treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Mood Disorders like Depression, Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Depression. I also diagnose and treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Personality disorders.
Mental health problems are challenging in so many ways. I can help you navigate evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management in a patient-centered manner. I am passionate about treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Mood Disorders like Depression, Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Depression. I also diagnose and treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Personality disorders.
(726) 224-7384 View (726) 224-7384
Photo of Olubunmi Oladosu, PMHNP, Psychiatrist
Olubunmi Oladosu
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229  (Online Only)
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
(210) 987-8378 View (210) 987-8378
Photo of Kerry Alyson Ramirez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kerry Alyson Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78240
I believe in treating every client as the unique and whole individual they are. Together, we collaborate to identify your specific goals and determine the best treatment approach to meet your needs. No two people are the same, and I strive to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to you.
I believe in treating every client as the unique and whole individual they are. Together, we collaborate to identify your specific goals and determine the best treatment approach to meet your needs. No two people are the same, and I strive to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to you.
(726) 227-4178 View (726) 227-4178
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See more therapy options for San Antonio

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
86% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
79% Trauma and PTSD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% 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.