Psychiatrists in San Marcos, TX

Photo of Ashley Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Ashley Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
San Marcos, TX 78666
Ashley Martin is dedicated to helping her clients achieve lasting mental wellness through personalized care. Serving clients throughout Texas, she focuses on restoring functionality and fostering individuality by developing customized treatment plans. Whether it's managing medication or addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Ashley works collaboratively with each client to meet their specific goals. Her approach is holistic, integrating therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to support comprehensive healing and growth.
Ashley Martin is dedicated to helping her clients achieve lasting mental wellness through personalized care. Serving clients throughout Texas, she focuses on restoring functionality and fostering individuality by developing customized treatment plans. Whether it's managing medication or addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Ashley works collaboratively with each client to meet their specific goals. Her approach is holistic, integrating therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to support comprehensive healing and growth.
(737) 309-5390 View (737) 309-5390
Photo of Samantha Brown, Psychiatrist, MD
Samantha Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
San Marcos, TX 78666
Samantha Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She earned an MD from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and completed her Psychiatry Internship and Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center. Samantha is easy to talk to, open minded and non-judgmental. She is sensitive to the occupational and relationship impact that mental health issues can have and takes those into account when designing a treatment plan.
Samantha Brown is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. She earned an MD from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and completed her Psychiatry Internship and Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center. Samantha is easy to talk to, open minded and non-judgmental. She is sensitive to the occupational and relationship impact that mental health issues can have and takes those into account when designing a treatment plan.
(512) 910-7295 View (512) 910-7295
Photo of Barry Mills, Psychiatrist, MD
Barry Mills
Psychiatrist, MD
San Marcos, TX 78666
Barry Mills MD, PhD, has over twenty-five years experience as a psychiatrist including teaching on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. He commonly treats problems such as ADD/ADHD, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and chemical dependency, among other conditions. Dr. Mills has received a MD degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and a PhD from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Carpinteria, CA. He has been an Editor for the Harvard Review of Psychiatry, a Harvard Faculty Teaching Award nominee, consultant to the U. S.
Barry Mills MD, PhD, has over twenty-five years experience as a psychiatrist including teaching on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. He commonly treats problems such as ADD/ADHD, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and chemical dependency, among other conditions. Dr. Mills has received a MD degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and a PhD from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Carpinteria, CA. He has been an Editor for the Harvard Review of Psychiatry, a Harvard Faculty Teaching Award nominee, consultant to the U. S.
(512) 598-5822 View (512) 598-5822
Photo of Sussana Howard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sussana Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
San Marcos, TX 78666
Sussana Howard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her career as a certified nurse assistant to complete her BSN and MSN and specialized as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in hospitals and telemedicine settings with diverse populations. Choosing this career path allows her to reach and make an impact on people who need support and care.
Sussana Howard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her career as a certified nurse assistant to complete her BSN and MSN and specialized as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in hospitals and telemedicine settings with diverse populations. Choosing this career path allows her to reach and make an impact on people who need support and care.
(737) 299-8387 View (737) 299-8387
Photo of Honey Covin-Weeks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS
Honey Covin-Weeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS
San Marcos, TX 78666
Honey Covin-Weeks is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Texas who started practicing in 2013. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Honey is a specialist in child and adolescent mental health with almost a decade of experience working exclusively with children and their families. She works to improve their functioning within the family, the school setting, and the larger community. Her treatment philosophy is somewhat of a marriage between Ross Green's theory that when a child can do better, he or she will do better, and the principles of behavior modification.
Honey Covin-Weeks is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Texas who started practicing in 2013. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Honey is a specialist in child and adolescent mental health with almost a decade of experience working exclusively with children and their families. She works to improve their functioning within the family, the school setting, and the larger community. Her treatment philosophy is somewhat of a marriage between Ross Green's theory that when a child can do better, he or she will do better, and the principles of behavior modification.
(512) 991-9462 View (512) 991-9462
Photo of Dr. Barry Mills - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
San Marcos, TX 78666
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(737) 727-2978 View (737) 727-2978
Photo of Mallori Hernandez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Mallori Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
San Marcos, TX 78666
Mallori Hernandez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from University of Texas at Arlington. Mallori's goal is to approach medication management in a collaborative way, taking patient's past and present experiences, concerns, and preferences into consideration. Mallori acknowledges psychosocial stressors as well as physical health when it comes to treating mental illness and address these when needed.
Mallori Hernandez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from University of Texas at Arlington. Mallori's goal is to approach medication management in a collaborative way, taking patient's past and present experiences, concerns, and preferences into consideration. Mallori acknowledges psychosocial stressors as well as physical health when it comes to treating mental illness and address these when needed.
(737) 232-5911 View (737) 232-5911
Photo of Yi Zhang, Psychiatrist, MD
Yi Zhang
Psychiatrist, MD
San Marcos, TX 78666
Yi Zhang is a Psychiatrist in Texas with four years of experience. She earned her MD from the University of Texas Medical Branch and completed her Psychiatry Residency from the Brody School of Medicine. Yi believes in creating individually tailored treatments to bring out the best in her clients. In her spare time, Yi enjoys birding and hiking.
Yi Zhang is a Psychiatrist in Texas with four years of experience. She earned her MD from the University of Texas Medical Branch and completed her Psychiatry Residency from the Brody School of Medicine. Yi believes in creating individually tailored treatments to bring out the best in her clients. In her spare time, Yi enjoys birding and hiking.
(512) 855-2445 View (512) 855-2445
Photo of Aju Alex, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP
Aju Alex
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP
San Marcos, TX 78666
Aju Alex has experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol disorder, and sleep disorders. She has her Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Prior to working as a PMHNP she worked as an RN at in-patient psychiatric units in Kansas and Georgia, catering to the needs of children, adolescents, and adults. She was motivated to further her career as a PMHNP after seeing the struggles and trauma that caused patients to be hospitalized/homeless.
Aju Alex has experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol disorder, and sleep disorders. She has her Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Prior to working as a PMHNP she worked as an RN at in-patient psychiatric units in Kansas and Georgia, catering to the needs of children, adolescents, and adults. She was motivated to further her career as a PMHNP after seeing the struggles and trauma that caused patients to be hospitalized/homeless.
(737) 637-5816 View (737) 637-5816
Photo of Courtney J Rabb, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Courtney J Rabb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
San Marcos, TX 78666
Mental health care can be challenging to navigate, but as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide evidence-based care tailored to your goals. Whether dealing with anxiety, mood imbalances, or life transitions, I focus on practical solutions to help you move forward. I provide medication management and supportive, solution-focused therapy, but I will never push medication. Taking the first step toward mental health care can be difficult, but it’s an important step toward positive change. My approach is collaborative and focused on finding practical solutions that work for you.
Mental health care can be challenging to navigate, but as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide evidence-based care tailored to your goals. Whether dealing with anxiety, mood imbalances, or life transitions, I focus on practical solutions to help you move forward. I provide medication management and supportive, solution-focused therapy, but I will never push medication. Taking the first step toward mental health care can be difficult, but it’s an important step toward positive change. My approach is collaborative and focused on finding practical solutions that work for you.
(512) 807-0640 View (512) 807-0640
Photo of Mistee J Jefferies, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Mistee J Jefferies
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
San Marcos, TX 78666
I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.
I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.
(512) 667-7506 View (512) 667-7506
Photo of Pablo Cueto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Pablo Cueto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Evening and weekend appointments available in English or Spanish. From the comfort of your home, we can connect and begin your journey to recovery. I can assist with issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, PTSD, ADHD and mood disorders.
Evening and weekend appointments available in English or Spanish. From the comfort of your home, we can connect and begin your journey to recovery. I can assist with issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, PTSD, ADHD and mood disorders.
(346) 752-5849 View (346) 752-5849
Photo of Simi Olushola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Simi Olushola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRNBC
Online Only
I help high-achieving professionals, families, teens, and children facing anxiety, ADHD,Anxiety, Depression,PTSD,Mood Disorders,and MAT-Substance Abuse,and other mental health challenges.My clients often feel overwhelmed,stuck,or out of balance,and they want clarity,relief, and meaningful change.As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with a decade of experience,I offer compassionate,evidence-based care tailored to your unique story.I believe speed matters,which is why I offer same-day appointments.Together,we’ll build a treatment plan that supports healing,growth,and lasting emotional wellness.Let’s begin your journey today.
I help high-achieving professionals, families, teens, and children facing anxiety, ADHD,Anxiety, Depression,PTSD,Mood Disorders,and MAT-Substance Abuse,and other mental health challenges.My clients often feel overwhelmed,stuck,or out of balance,and they want clarity,relief, and meaningful change.As a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with a decade of experience,I offer compassionate,evidence-based care tailored to your unique story.I believe speed matters,which is why I offer same-day appointments.Together,we’ll build a treatment plan that supports healing,growth,and lasting emotional wellness.Let’s begin your journey today.
(469) 916-5428 View (469) 916-5428
Photo of Dee Swart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Dee Swart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Veteran, I acknowledge the Warrior ethos that exists in all humans, especially when it comes to mental health and wellness. i am here to work with you, as a team, to achieve the goals that you aspire for yourself. It can range from not being 'that' person anymore to improving my relationships with loved ones. I am also here to help kids and teens be the best version of themselves, however they identify. We can achieve these things better, together.
As a Veteran, I acknowledge the Warrior ethos that exists in all humans, especially when it comes to mental health and wellness. i am here to work with you, as a team, to achieve the goals that you aspire for yourself. It can range from not being 'that' person anymore to improving my relationships with loved ones. I am also here to help kids and teens be the best version of themselves, however they identify. We can achieve these things better, together.
(830) 476-7388 View (830) 476-7388
Photo of Rick Duroseau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Rick Duroseau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Serves Area
Great to Meet You! My name is Rick, and I am a dually certified board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to treat various mental health conditions. I am passionate about treating individuals with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, complex grief, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am also an advocate for the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities and am honored to provide culturally competent mental health care to these individuals. I offer expert medication management to help stabilize your mental health, reduce symptoms, and give you the tools you need to build a healthier future.
Great to Meet You! My name is Rick, and I am a dually certified board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to treat various mental health conditions. I am passionate about treating individuals with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, complex grief, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am also an advocate for the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities and am honored to provide culturally competent mental health care to these individuals. I offer expert medication management to help stabilize your mental health, reduce symptoms, and give you the tools you need to build a healthier future.
(806) 541-5987 View (806) 541-5987
Photo of Daniel Ha - Daniel Ha - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Ha - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Daniel Ha was born and raised in San Antonio, TX. He attended Texas A&M University graduating in 2012 with a Bachelor's of Science in Biological Sciences.
Dr. Daniel Ha was born and raised in San Antonio, TX. He attended Texas A&M University graduating in 2012 with a Bachelor's of Science in Biological Sciences.
(737) 777-9743 View (737) 777-9743
Photo of Suzanne Guynes - Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Suzanne Guynes @ Shiloh Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, we’re here to help. We go beyond just prescribing medication—we listen, uncover the root cause, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your life. Whether through modern medicine, natural approaches, or psychotherapy, we see medication as one option, not the only option. Our mission is to be your long-term partner in achieving real, lasting well-being—because true healing is about more than just a prescription
(817) 693-8149 View (817) 693-8149
Photo of Dr. Yejide Oludare - Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Oludare is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing telemedicine appointments to Texas and New Mexico residents. Yejide graduated with a doctorate degree from Arkansas State University and have over 15 years of clinical experience serving individuals with mental illness. Dr. Oludare is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners and the state of New Mexico as an Advanced Practice Nurse. She takes pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care for her clients.
Dr. Oludare is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing telemedicine appointments to Texas and New Mexico residents. Yejide graduated with a doctorate degree from Arkansas State University and have over 15 years of clinical experience serving individuals with mental illness. Dr. Oludare is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners and the state of New Mexico as an Advanced Practice Nurse. She takes pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care for her clients.
(210) 756-3095 View (210) 756-3095
Photo of Frederic J Wilson, Psychiatrist, MD
Frederic J Wilson
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Frederic Wilson is a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatry for all ages. Dr. Wilson utilizes a multidimensional approach to the mental health needs of his patients incorporating the biological, psychological, and social aspects of their lives. Dr. Wilson is board certified in both Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Frederic Wilson is a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatry for all ages. Dr. Wilson utilizes a multidimensional approach to the mental health needs of his patients incorporating the biological, psychological, and social aspects of their lives. Dr. Wilson is board certified in both Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(512) 861-8637 View (512) 861-8637
Photo of Arturo Freyre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC-S
Arturo Freyre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Hello and thank you for looking at this page. A few things to know, I offer sincere and collaborative care. I want each of my patients to be able to engage in honest communication geared towards improving your mental health and quality of life. I work with all ages starting at age 9 and treat most psychiatric issues.
Hello and thank you for looking at this page. A few things to know, I offer sincere and collaborative care. I want each of my patients to be able to engage in honest communication geared towards improving your mental health and quality of life. I work with all ages starting at age 9 and treat most psychiatric issues.
(210) 794-7312 View (210) 794-7312

See more therapy options for San Marcos

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Marcos, TX

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in San Marcos, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
86% Trauma and PTSD
83% ADHD
83% Medication Management
74% Bipolar Disorder
60% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
91% Aetna
85% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in San Marcos, TX see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Marcos?

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.