Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

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 Dr. Taiwo I Abioye, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Taiwo I Abioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232  (Online Only)
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
(830) 240-2074 View (830) 240-2074
Photo of Deidre Rose Alder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deidre Rose Alder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and gender-specific issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some of the unique challenges that individuals may face. Throughout our lives, different circumstances call for varying levels of psychological support and assistance, and I believe in building a therapeutic rapport to support you.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and gender-specific issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some of the unique challenges that individuals may face. Throughout our lives, different circumstances call for varying levels of psychological support and assistance, and I believe in building a therapeutic rapport to support you.
(210) 920-7963 View (210) 920-7963
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 Michael Adelowo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78224
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
(726) 213-7188 View (726) 213-7188
Photo of Kelsey Tseng, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kelsey Tseng
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78253
I understand that each patient has their own experiences, preferences, and needs, and strive to develop collaborative treatment plans suited to the individual. I am a board-certified Physician Assistant who practices evidence-based medicine with compassion and empathy. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, trauma, psychosis, and mood disorders, and have a passion for educating patients and motivating them to take an active role in their mental health.
I understand that each patient has their own experiences, preferences, and needs, and strive to develop collaborative treatment plans suited to the individual. I am a board-certified Physician Assistant who practices evidence-based medicine with compassion and empathy. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, trauma, psychosis, and mood disorders, and have a passion for educating patients and motivating them to take an active role in their mental health.
(210) 405-9356 View (210) 405-9356
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 Nathan S Johnston, DO, MS, Psychiatrist
Nathan S Johnston
Psychiatrist, DO, MS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
Our clinic is now accepting all major insurances for medication management! Call now to schedule same day appointments at our San Antonio Medical Center location. Dr. Johnston specializes in the use of cutting edge evidence based treatments for depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other treatment-resistant disorders. Using treatments like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, IV and IM Ketamine, Inhaled Esketamine (Spravato), and ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) we have been able to help many in our community that had lost hope for getting better. Many of our treatments are covered by insurance.
Our clinic is now accepting all major insurances for medication management! Call now to schedule same day appointments at our San Antonio Medical Center location. Dr. Johnston specializes in the use of cutting edge evidence based treatments for depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other treatment-resistant disorders. Using treatments like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, IV and IM Ketamine, Inhaled Esketamine (Spravato), and ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) we have been able to help many in our community that had lost hope for getting better. Many of our treatments are covered by insurance.
(210) 762-4761 View (210) 762-4761
Photo of Javen Valerie Cavazos, MD, Psychiatrist
Javen Valerie Cavazos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
Strive Psychiatry encourages patients to STRIVE to be courageous, connected, and understanding about mental health. It is the beginning journey of hope to being a better you. Advocating for bringing back medicine the way it used to be with direct patient care. Dr. Cavazos has been practicing in san antonio for 6 years and has over a decade of professional experience in mental health. Please visit www.strivepsychiatry.com for further information. Please schedule https://app.luminello.com/javencavazosmd/form
Strive Psychiatry encourages patients to STRIVE to be courageous, connected, and understanding about mental health. It is the beginning journey of hope to being a better you. Advocating for bringing back medicine the way it used to be with direct patient care. Dr. Cavazos has been practicing in san antonio for 6 years and has over a decade of professional experience in mental health. Please visit www.strivepsychiatry.com for further information. Please schedule https://app.luminello.com/javencavazosmd/form
(830) 476-0929 View (830) 476-0929
Photo of John Enriquez, MD, Psychiatrist
John Enriquez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
Dr. John Enriquez is a psychiatrist, a physician for mental health disorders. He has over 43 years of experience in the field of medicine. He graduated from medical school with his medical degree in 1975. Post-graduate training at LA County USC Medical Center. Dr. John N. Enriquez is licensed to practice by the state board in Texas and is Board Certified in Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry. He helps with the psychological well-being of men and women, with an ability to identify and treat all of the various types of Psychiatric Illness.
Dr. John Enriquez is a psychiatrist, a physician for mental health disorders. He has over 43 years of experience in the field of medicine. He graduated from medical school with his medical degree in 1975. Post-graduate training at LA County USC Medical Center. Dr. John N. Enriquez is licensed to practice by the state board in Texas and is Board Certified in Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry. He helps with the psychological well-being of men and women, with an ability to identify and treat all of the various types of Psychiatric Illness.
(210) 940-4228 View (210) 940-4228
Photo of Dr. David Mauro, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. David Mauro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78251
Dr. David Mauro is accepting new patients. I am a board-certified physician who specializes in evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders in adults. I am able to connect with patients, incorporating biopsychosocial model into understanding people and meeting them where they are.
Dr. David Mauro is accepting new patients. I am a board-certified physician who specializes in evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders in adults. I am able to connect with patients, incorporating biopsychosocial model into understanding people and meeting them where they are.
(830) 215-8974 View (830) 215-8974
Photo of Christina Wei, PhD, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Wei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Mental wellness is a journey, and I would love to be a part of your treatment team! With more than 20 years of experience, I have a huge appreciation and respect for people who place their care in my hands. My ideal patient wants help from a highly qualified and caring professional who is versed in both psychiatry and brief psychotherapy, specializing in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Let's spend time collaborating on a well-thought-out and comprehensive treatment plan for your problems/concerns. Group therapy for adults is available.
Mental wellness is a journey, and I would love to be a part of your treatment team! With more than 20 years of experience, I have a huge appreciation and respect for people who place their care in my hands. My ideal patient wants help from a highly qualified and caring professional who is versed in both psychiatry and brief psychotherapy, specializing in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Let's spend time collaborating on a well-thought-out and comprehensive treatment plan for your problems/concerns. Group therapy for adults is available.
(210) 920-8212 View (210) 920-8212
Photo of Karla Rivera - Blue Skyes Health Psychiatry Group, MD, Psychiatrist
Blue Skyes Health Psychiatry Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
We thrive on supporting our pediatric community and their families with an integrative care for children and their behavioral health. Specializing in treating conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder and other behavior problems. We understand that when a child in the family is struggling the whole family struggles. We provide medication management for our patients and an open communication with the parents because we believe good communication with our patients makes for better treatment outcomes.
We thrive on supporting our pediatric community and their families with an integrative care for children and their behavioral health. Specializing in treating conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder and other behavior problems. We understand that when a child in the family is struggling the whole family struggles. We provide medication management for our patients and an open communication with the parents because we believe good communication with our patients makes for better treatment outcomes.
(210) 405-7504 View (210) 405-7504
Photo of Femi Popoola - GraceLand Psychiatric and Neuromodulation Center, MD, Psychiatrist
GraceLand Psychiatric and Neuromodulation Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78251  (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 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 Kimberly Williams, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
I am here to meet you where you are now. I practice integrative, whole person, wellness, using a bio psychosocial approach to work with you on identifying barriers and developing solutions. Medication management, supplements, nutrition, talk therapy, and other integrative approaches. Together, you and I will collaborate on an individualized plan that brings you forward on your wellness journey.
I am here to meet you where you are now. I practice integrative, whole person, wellness, using a bio psychosocial approach to work with you on identifying barriers and developing solutions. Medication management, supplements, nutrition, talk therapy, and other integrative approaches. Together, you and I will collaborate on an individualized plan that brings you forward on your wellness journey.
(210) 361-1498 View (210) 361-1498
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 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, PLLC our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. For more details, visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry, PLLC our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. For more details, visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
(210) 985-7202 View (210) 985-7202
Photo of Dr. Jeanette Quiroga - Ascend Psychiatric Specialty Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Ascend Psychiatric Specialty Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Quiroga is excited to bring her Direct Care Psychiatric Practice to the Stone Oak area. With this model, Insurance is not accepted, and payment is made directly to the office at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care that is not limited in appointment time and frequency by the insurance carrier. The medical record remains confidential, unless you wish to share that information with your insurance. Please refer to the rates section of our website for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits. Initial consultation- $550 (up to 90 min), Follow-up visit- $225 (up to 25 min).
Dr. Quiroga is excited to bring her Direct Care Psychiatric Practice to the Stone Oak area. With this model, Insurance is not accepted, and payment is made directly to the office at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care that is not limited in appointment time and frequency by the insurance carrier. The medical record remains confidential, unless you wish to share that information with your insurance. Please refer to the rates section of our website for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits. Initial consultation- $550 (up to 90 min), Follow-up visit- $225 (up to 25 min).
(210) 702-3143 View (210) 702-3143
Photo of Jamal Daher, PA-BC, Physician Assistant
Jamal Daher
Physician Assistant, PA-BC
Verified Verified
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
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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.