Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

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.

My name is Sarah Casola, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and OCD. My clients often face challenges like low energy, lack of motivation, difficulty finding joy, mood swings and persistent worries. Some also struggle with emotional wounds from past trauma, affecting their sense of safety and relationships. I offer a compassionate, solution-focused approach, including medication management and therapy, to support healing and growth.
My name is Sarah Casola, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and OCD. My clients often face challenges like low energy, lack of motivation, difficulty finding joy, mood swings and persistent worries. Some also struggle with emotional wounds from past trauma, affecting their sense of safety and relationships. I offer a compassionate, solution-focused approach, including medication management and therapy, to support healing and growth.

Dr. Christine Joy is a double board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist currently accepting new patients with same week availability. A San Antonio native and third-generation healthcare professional, Dr. Joy leads her psychiatric practice with the belief that the doctor-patient relationship is fundamental for healing. She has over ten years of experience, including expertise with elderly, medically-complex, and veteran populations.
Dr. Christine Joy is a double board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist currently accepting new patients with same week availability. A San Antonio native and third-generation healthcare professional, Dr. Joy leads her psychiatric practice with the belief that the doctor-patient relationship is fundamental for healing. She has over ten years of experience, including expertise with elderly, medically-complex, and veteran populations.

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.

Hayden Castillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Since beginning my career in nursing, I have been deeply moved by the resilience of individuals grappling with mental health challenges. My journey from a registered nurse to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner has been driven by a profound commitment to improving mental health care and advocating for those who often face stigma and isolation. I am excited to begin this commitment and have a positive impact on individuals’ mental well-being. I am passionate about helping people navigate through life who may feel alone or having difficulty finding a balance in life.
Since beginning my career in nursing, I have been deeply moved by the resilience of individuals grappling with mental health challenges. My journey from a registered nurse to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner has been driven by a profound commitment to improving mental health care and advocating for those who often face stigma and isolation. I am excited to begin this commitment and have a positive impact on individuals’ mental well-being. I am passionate about helping people navigate through life who may feel alone or having difficulty finding a balance in life.

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.

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. SAME Day/ 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. SAME Day/ Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com

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.

Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Blessing Esomchukwu, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. With a Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health and a heart for teaching, I guide patients through self-care practices, ensuring they understand their conditions. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care that is culturally sensitive and holistic. They want to feel empowered, regain control, and improve their emotional well-being through therapy, medication management.
Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Blessing Esomchukwu, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. With a Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health and a heart for teaching, I guide patients through self-care practices, ensuring they understand their conditions. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care that is culturally sensitive and holistic. They want to feel empowered, regain control, and improve their emotional well-being through therapy, medication management.

I am Christopher Rodriguez, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 1 year of experience. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anger, mental stress, behavioral issues, depression, and anxiety. While working as a family nurse practitioner, I experienced the shortage of behavioral health care resources available to my patients, and I am passionate about assisting clients with their mental health needs. My ideal clients are those ready to work on becoming the best version of themselves.
I am Christopher Rodriguez, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 1 year of experience. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anger, mental stress, behavioral issues, depression, and anxiety. While working as a family nurse practitioner, I experienced the shortage of behavioral health care resources available to my patients, and I am passionate about assisting clients with their mental health needs. My ideal clients are those ready to work on becoming the best version of themselves.

Accepting new patients, Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, corporate transitions, PTSD and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible. Visit our website for more information!
Accepting new patients, Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, corporate transitions, PTSD and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible. Visit our website for more information!
15 Second Videos

Elizabeth Ann Keller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
Hello, I'm Elizabeth Keller. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. I am board certified as a nurse practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatry. I am licensed as an LPC. And I am nationally certified as a hypnotherapist. I also teach self-hypnosis. I have been in private practice since 2010. I have been a nurse practitioner since 1983. I take a holistic approach and a wellness orientation with my clients. If you would like more details about my practice, my website is lifemotivationssa.com. My phone number (PLEASE TEXT ONLY) 210.473.1619/email: lifemotivationssa@gmail.com
Hello, I'm Elizabeth Keller. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. I am board certified as a nurse practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatry. I am licensed as an LPC. And I am nationally certified as a hypnotherapist. I also teach self-hypnosis. I have been in private practice since 2010. I have been a nurse practitioner since 1983. I take a holistic approach and a wellness orientation with my clients. If you would like more details about my practice, my website is lifemotivationssa.com. My phone number (PLEASE TEXT ONLY) 210.473.1619/email: lifemotivationssa@gmail.com

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.

I was born in Mexico City, attended the National University School of Medicine and graduated as a Physician in 1970. I came to the United States in 1971 and studied General Psychiatry at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. Then moved to New Orleans and studied Child Psychiatry at Tulane University of New Orleans. After graduation I became a Tulane Associate Professor and director of children and adolescent units at the psychiatric hospital in Mandeville. I have 2 sons that were born in New Orleans, they are my pride and joy. I moved back to Mexico City and was in private practice for 7 years.
I was born in Mexico City, attended the National University School of Medicine and graduated as a Physician in 1970. I came to the United States in 1971 and studied General Psychiatry at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. Then moved to New Orleans and studied Child Psychiatry at Tulane University of New Orleans. After graduation I became a Tulane Associate Professor and director of children and adolescent units at the psychiatric hospital in Mandeville. I have 2 sons that were born in New Orleans, they are my pride and joy. I moved back to Mexico City and was in private practice for 7 years.

Maame S Obiri-Boateng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Maame, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in helping individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and OCD. If you find yourself caught in a cycle of sadness, irritability, anxiety, poor concentration, or mood swings, it’s time to take the first step towards healing.
I understand how difficult it can be to balance relationships, work, and health while feeling mentally overwhelmed. My goal is to help you find relief from these burdens and regain a sense of control over your life through tailored psychiatric care.
My name is Maame, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in helping individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and OCD. If you find yourself caught in a cycle of sadness, irritability, anxiety, poor concentration, or mood swings, it’s time to take the first step towards healing.
I understand how difficult it can be to balance relationships, work, and health while feeling mentally overwhelmed. My goal is to help you find relief from these burdens and regain a sense of control over your life through tailored psychiatric care.

Alamo Premier Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a compassionate dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from.
I am a compassionate dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from.

At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.

Dr. Pichot is a graduate of the UT Health San Antonio Psychiatry Residency Program and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He was nominated and selected by peer physicians in San Antonio Magazine’s Top Doctors of 2023 in Psychiatry and Super Doctors Rising Stars in 2024 with a special advertising section in the July issue of Texas Monthly. He is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy practicing in Alamo Heights at the Broadway Theater Building. In-person and virtual visits are options if there is availability when you call.
Dr. Pichot is a graduate of the UT Health San Antonio Psychiatry Residency Program and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He was nominated and selected by peer physicians in San Antonio Magazine’s Top Doctors of 2023 in Psychiatry and Super Doctors Rising Stars in 2024 with a special advertising section in the July issue of Texas Monthly. He is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy practicing in Alamo Heights at the Broadway Theater Building. In-person and virtual visits are options if there is availability when you call.

Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.

Luis Javier Valdez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since November 2020. He graduated from UT Health San Antonio with a Master of Science in Nursing. His focus is Psychiatric-Mental Health. Luis believes in a biopsychosocial approach. He will address your treatment from a biological standpoint and attempt to understand you as an individual using a variety of theories including Bowen s family systems. His main focus areas include depression, anxiety, and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder ADHD . In his spare time, Luis enjoys foraging and exploring local parks with his four-year-old.
Luis Javier Valdez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since November 2020. He graduated from UT Health San Antonio with a Master of Science in Nursing. His focus is Psychiatric-Mental Health. Luis believes in a biopsychosocial approach. He will address your treatment from a biological standpoint and attempt to understand you as an individual using a variety of theories including Bowen s family systems. His main focus areas include depression, anxiety, and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder ADHD . In his spare time, Luis enjoys foraging and exploring local parks with his four-year-old.
See more therapy options for San Antonio
Nearby Searches for San Antonio
See More PsychiatristsHow 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:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Medication Management |
76% | 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
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.