Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Shazar Kahn, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shazar Kahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
(210) 405-1682 View (210) 405-1682
Photo of Thomas Anthony Dietz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thomas Anthony Dietz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a whole mind and body approach for enhancing their overall wellness. I don't want to simply medicate symptoms, but rather work with my clients to discover the root cause for the way they feel. I want my clients to not only feel better, but to be better.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a whole mind and body approach for enhancing their overall wellness. I don't want to simply medicate symptoms, but rather work with my clients to discover the root cause for the way they feel. I want my clients to not only feel better, but to be better.
(210) 761-5239 View (210) 761-5239
Photo of Valentina Okechi - Restore primary care wellness and behavioral healt, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Restore primary care wellness and behavioral healt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
The ideal client for me is someone who is grappling with various challenges that life presents. They may be feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, including work, relationships, and personal well-being. This individual might be someone who struggles to manage their tasks and responsibilities, feeling burdened by their never-ending to-do list. My ideal client is someone who recognizes that they are not alone in their struggles and is open to seeking support.
The ideal client for me is someone who is grappling with various challenges that life presents. They may be feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, including work, relationships, and personal well-being. This individual might be someone who struggles to manage their tasks and responsibilities, feeling burdened by their never-ending to-do list. My ideal client is someone who recognizes that they are not alone in their struggles and is open to seeking support.
(210) 756-9655 View (210) 756-9655
Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
(210) 981-6747 View (210) 981-6747
Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
(210) 742-5163 View (210) 742-5163
Photo of Stormy Valdespino, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stormy Valdespino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to assist you become the best version of yourself. The mindset and focus of our sessions is to obtain freedom and happiness that resides within. That vison might include retraining the brain along with medication modalties. I encourage patients to be the center of their mental wellness which includes the freedom to pick the best approach to obtain goals. I am happy to be invited on this exciting journey of placing the pieces back together.
I am here to assist you become the best version of yourself. The mindset and focus of our sessions is to obtain freedom and happiness that resides within. That vison might include retraining the brain along with medication modalties. I encourage patients to be the center of their mental wellness which includes the freedom to pick the best approach to obtain goals. I am happy to be invited on this exciting journey of placing the pieces back together.
(726) 216-7243 View (726) 216-7243
Photo of Angelica Valle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angelica Valle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing outpatient modeled virtual care for adult clients in Texas. I earned my master of science in nursing (MS) degree from UT Health San Antonio, and am the founder and owner of Floriss Wellness PLLC - Virtual Mental Healthcare of Texas Telehealth Clinic. Our clinic provides comprehensive treatment for all psychiatric conditions, ensuring personalized care for each client. Our expertise covers a wide range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), among others.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing outpatient modeled virtual care for adult clients in Texas. I earned my master of science in nursing (MS) degree from UT Health San Antonio, and am the founder and owner of Floriss Wellness PLLC - Virtual Mental Healthcare of Texas Telehealth Clinic. Our clinic provides comprehensive treatment for all psychiatric conditions, ensuring personalized care for each client. Our expertise covers a wide range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), among others.
(210) 934-6574 View (210) 934-6574
Photo of Belen Ramos, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Belen Ramos
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
(210) 880-3854 View (210) 880-3854
Photo of Sarah Casola - Green Pastures Mental Care, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Green Pastures Mental Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78254
At Green Pastures, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health. We specialize in medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma. Our process starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand your unique needs. We provide education on evidence-based treatment options, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care. Our mission is to offer compassionate, individualized support on your path to mental wellness.
At Green Pastures, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health. We specialize in medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and trauma. Our process starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand your unique needs. We provide education on evidence-based treatment options, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care. Our mission is to offer compassionate, individualized support on your path to mental wellness.
(830) 376-6180 View (830) 376-6180
Photo of Jacquelyn Rodriguez - MedBerry Clinic, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MedBerry Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
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 Olubunmi Oladosu - Zenith Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zenith Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS only. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS only. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter
(210) 879-1066 View (210) 879-1066
Photo of Wardell Brian Hollis - Mental Health Horizons, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health Horizons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult or geriatric client with a major mental health issue or diagnosis.
My ideal client is an adult or geriatric client with a major mental health issue or diagnosis.
(830) 999-2497 View (830) 999-2497
Photo of Femi Popoola - GraceLand Psychiatric and Neuromodulation Center, MD, Psychiatrist
GraceLand Psychiatric and Neuromodulation Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Femi Popoola, MD is ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! I am double board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I love to listen actively while carefully conducting psychiatric evaluations and formulating treatment plans. The least that I can do to help you is to be a positive force in your life as it relates to empathy and the educational value of mental health treatment that you get from me. I offer medication management for all ranges of mental health challenges. My therapy add on are typically short, directed and supportive. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
Femi Popoola, MD is ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! I am double board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I love to listen actively while carefully conducting psychiatric evaluations and formulating treatment plans. The least that I can do to help you is to be a positive force in your life as it relates to empathy and the educational value of mental health treatment that you get from me. I offer medication management for all ranges of mental health challenges. My therapy add on are typically short, directed and supportive. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
(210) 934-8107 View (210) 934-8107
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(210) 361-6840 View (210) 361-6840
Photo of Perla Silvis, PA, Physician Assistant
Perla Silvis
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Accepting new patients in Texas for evaluation and medication management! Have you been having trouble sleeping, trouble concentrating? Feel like your emotions are no longer under control? You may be having trouble with depression, anxiety or another challenge. I can help. I focus on treating depression, anxiety and ADHD, and all mood disorders. I truly believe the secret to helping my patients succeed is in listening to them and allowing them to be truly heard. I am fluent in both Spanish and English and treat patients ages 10-64.
Accepting new patients in Texas for evaluation and medication management! Have you been having trouble sleeping, trouble concentrating? Feel like your emotions are no longer under control? You may be having trouble with depression, anxiety or another challenge. I can help. I focus on treating depression, anxiety and ADHD, and all mood disorders. I truly believe the secret to helping my patients succeed is in listening to them and allowing them to be truly heard. I am fluent in both Spanish and English and treat patients ages 10-64.
(726) 213-6806 View (726) 213-6806
Photo of Dana Ebeling, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Ebeling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with individuals who seek a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate, personalized care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. My ideal client values collaboration and is ready to partner with me on their journey toward healing and balance. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals, fostering resilience and personal growth.
I work with individuals who seek a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate, personalized care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. My ideal client values collaboration and is ready to partner with me on their journey toward healing and balance. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals, fostering resilience and personal growth.
(210) 741-9442 View (210) 741-9442
Photo of Sarah Kane, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Kane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
Treats persons 8 years and older who struggle with mental health and behavioral issues.
Treats persons 8 years and older who struggle with mental health and behavioral issues.
(210) 934-5759 View (210) 934-5759
Photo of Shawna Deeves, MD, Psychiatrist
Shawna Deeves
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Dr. Deeves is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in San Antonio, Texas. She earned her Medical Degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio and has been in practice for more than 20 years.. She leads our team and makes sure all our backgrounds work together to help support your mental health goals. Dr. Deeves is an adjunct assistant professor with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She believes in education and training of new professionals.
Dr. Deeves is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in San Antonio, Texas. She earned her Medical Degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio and has been in practice for more than 20 years.. She leads our team and makes sure all our backgrounds work together to help support your mental health goals. Dr. Deeves is an adjunct assistant professor with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She believes in education and training of new professionals.
(210) 750-6879 View (210) 750-6879
Photo of Ijeoma Ajufo - Northridge Behavioral Health PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Northridge Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Dr Ajufo is fully licensed in state of Texas and accepting NEW patients. She is experienced in working with a diverse population of motivated patients. She provides high quality, comprehensive, compassionate and patient focused care for patients 6yrs AND ABOVE Focusing on the whole person Dr Ajufo works with the patient to develop individualized treatment plans. Our clinic treats patients with Anxiety,ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, , Depression, Postpartum Depression, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia , Schizoaffective Disorder and Sleep Disorders ,
Dr Ajufo is fully licensed in state of Texas and accepting NEW patients. She is experienced in working with a diverse population of motivated patients. She provides high quality, comprehensive, compassionate and patient focused care for patients 6yrs AND ABOVE Focusing on the whole person Dr Ajufo works with the patient to develop individualized treatment plans. Our clinic treats patients with Anxiety,ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, , Depression, Postpartum Depression, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia , Schizoaffective Disorder and Sleep Disorders ,
(210) 361-8427 View (210) 361-8427
Photo of Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
(210) 903-8351 View (210) 903-8351
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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
80% Trauma and PTSD
79% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
83% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% 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.