Psychiatrists in Smith County, TX

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Photo of Angela Dale Sanders - Creekdale Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Creekdale Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75701  (Online Only)
Hello there, my name is Angela Sanders and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I treat adult patients 18 and up with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, and more. I genuinely care about my patient's mental health and want to help them along the way to mental wellness.
Hello there, my name is Angela Sanders and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I treat adult patients 18 and up with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, and more. I genuinely care about my patient's mental health and want to help them along the way to mental wellness.
(903) 500-7580 View (903) 500-7580
Photo of Amanda Blalock - Whispering Pines Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Whispering Pines Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
At Whispering Pines Psychiatry, our mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based mental health care to our clients. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive and healing environment where every patient feels valued and understood. By combining traditional psychiatric care with a holistic, well-rounded approach, we address the mind, body, and spirit, ensuring that our patients receive the most thorough and personalized treatment possible.
At Whispering Pines Psychiatry, our mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based mental health care to our clients. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive and healing environment where every patient feels valued and understood. By combining traditional psychiatric care with a holistic, well-rounded approach, we address the mind, body, and spirit, ensuring that our patients receive the most thorough and personalized treatment possible.
(430) 202-6712 View (430) 202-6712
Photo of Christopher Schuman, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Schuman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bullard, TX 75757
Seeing patients in-person in Bullard, TX. I provide conservative medication management with counseling from a Christian worldview. Over 10+ yrs experience in public service (911 dispatcher) and healthcare (ICU nurse). Are you struggling with a depressed mood, anxiety, insomnia, or nightmares? Has your therapist recommended medication? Are you worried about side effects or being on medications forever? I can help you answer these questions. Call us at (903) 354-7188.
Seeing patients in-person in Bullard, TX. I provide conservative medication management with counseling from a Christian worldview. Over 10+ yrs experience in public service (911 dispatcher) and healthcare (ICU nurse). Are you struggling with a depressed mood, anxiety, insomnia, or nightmares? Has your therapist recommended medication? Are you worried about side effects or being on medications forever? I can help you answer these questions. Call us at (903) 354-7188.
(281) 717-6879 View (281) 717-6879
Photo of Sonja Renee Hampshire - Fresh Start Psychiatry and Recovery, APRN, PMHNPBC, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fresh Start Psychiatry and Recovery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75707  (Online Only)
Are you ready for a fresh start? Are you tired of living life chained to a mental health and/or a substance problem? If you want to heal your anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, mood problems (Depression, Bipolar, Mixed moods)-we can together! If you want to break the chains of binging and addiction to alcohol, cannabis, opioids, kratom, benzodiazepine, stimulants, with or without a psychiatric condition- we will do great work as you journey from surviving- to thriving! UPDATE: In November 2024, we plan to add a contract provider to ensure you can start sooner!
Are you ready for a fresh start? Are you tired of living life chained to a mental health and/or a substance problem? If you want to heal your anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, mood problems (Depression, Bipolar, Mixed moods)-we can together! If you want to break the chains of binging and addiction to alcohol, cannabis, opioids, kratom, benzodiazepine, stimulants, with or without a psychiatric condition- we will do great work as you journey from surviving- to thriving! UPDATE: In November 2024, we plan to add a contract provider to ensure you can start sooner!
(903) 600-9210 View (903) 600-9210
Photo of Rita Chioma Uduma - Uduma Behavioral Health Services PLLC, APRN, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uduma Behavioral Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75703  (Online Only)
Welcome to Uduma Behavioral Health Services. I'm Rita Chioma Uduma. We are currently open to accepting new patients. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards better mental health. Our board-certified private practice specializes in mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. We assess, evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood disorders, and Personality disorders. Our goal is to provide easy accessibility to mental health care and to guide you through your mental health journey with compassion and evidence-based care.
Welcome to Uduma Behavioral Health Services. I'm Rita Chioma Uduma. We are currently open to accepting new patients. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards better mental health. Our board-certified private practice specializes in mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. We assess, evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood disorders, and Personality disorders. Our goal is to provide easy accessibility to mental health care and to guide you through your mental health journey with compassion and evidence-based care.
(903) 329-6436 View (903) 329-6436
Photo of Ranie Meyer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ranie Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75701  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I believe in a holistic, patient-centered, and non-judgmental approach to mental healthcare. I provide specialized care for individuals struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, attention/focus challenges, bipolar, and trauma. My approach extends beyond traditional psychiatry by integrating methods that address both the mind and body. By focusing on the root causes of symptoms, I tailor treatments to meet your unique needs.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I believe in a holistic, patient-centered, and non-judgmental approach to mental healthcare. I provide specialized care for individuals struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, attention/focus challenges, bipolar, and trauma. My approach extends beyond traditional psychiatry by integrating methods that address both the mind and body. By focusing on the root causes of symptoms, I tailor treatments to meet your unique needs.
(903) 213-9740 View (903) 213-9740
Photo of Ifeoma Irokwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ifeoma Irokwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
(903) 827-3233 View (903) 827-3233
Photo of Omotayo B Gbengaojo - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75701
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
(682) 327-1189 View (682) 327-1189
Photo of Jennifer L Angelo - Serenity Mental Health PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serenity Mental Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lindale, TX 75771
We have been living in some of the most challenging days that any of us can imagine. This creates stress in our every day lives. There is hope! There is a light at the end of the tunnel, but sometimes it is difficult to see. Let me help you work through these turbulent times. Please, don't hesitate to call. We are able to schedule most individuals with in 2-3 weeks. Psalms 139:14 "I am fearfully and wonderfully made....."
We have been living in some of the most challenging days that any of us can imagine. This creates stress in our every day lives. There is hope! There is a light at the end of the tunnel, but sometimes it is difficult to see. Let me help you work through these turbulent times. Please, don't hesitate to call. We are able to schedule most individuals with in 2-3 weeks. Psalms 139:14 "I am fearfully and wonderfully made....."
(430) 255-5358 View (430) 255-5358
Photo of Jeremiah Sanders - Resolute - Addiction and Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Resolute - Addiction and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75701
Are you dealing with crippling anxiety or depression? Struggling with addiction issues? Our team focuses on the total recovery of those who are struggling with addiction, co-occurring disorders, or mental health disorders. We love clients who are committed to recreating their lives by following simple principles. Those who have the willingness to make the initial call can apply that willingness to completely changing their lives. Don't believe us? There are thousands of us out there that have completely broken the chains of addiction and mental health disorders and have found a life of purpose, positivity, and joy.
Are you dealing with crippling anxiety or depression? Struggling with addiction issues? Our team focuses on the total recovery of those who are struggling with addiction, co-occurring disorders, or mental health disorders. We love clients who are committed to recreating their lives by following simple principles. Those who have the willingness to make the initial call can apply that willingness to completely changing their lives. Don't believe us? There are thousands of us out there that have completely broken the chains of addiction and mental health disorders and have found a life of purpose, positivity, and joy.
(903) 226-8421 View (903) 226-8421
Photo of Fadekemi Olude, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75702  (Online Only)
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
(972) 573-9755 View (972) 573-9755
Photo of Travis Wacha - Wacha's Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wacha's Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75701
Hello! I have been a nurse practitioner since 2016 and I am board certified in both family and psychiatry. I have long had a passion for serving those with mental illness and it is my joy to help clients reach their full potential. I look at the body as a whole and know that each individual has unique needs, which means they each require a specific combination of treatments to help them find wellness. I treat a range of mental health conditions and tailor each treatment plan according to your needs.
Hello! I have been a nurse practitioner since 2016 and I am board certified in both family and psychiatry. I have long had a passion for serving those with mental illness and it is my joy to help clients reach their full potential. I look at the body as a whole and know that each individual has unique needs, which means they each require a specific combination of treatments to help them find wellness. I treat a range of mental health conditions and tailor each treatment plan according to your needs.
(903) 500-7715 View (903) 500-7715
Photo of Jeremiah Sanders, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeremiah Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75701
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am a professional who is dedicated to helping individuals with mental health concerns. I provide a range of services, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and support to people with mental illness, substance abuse issues, and other behavioral health issues. I work closely with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans and offer support and guidance throughout the recovery process. I offer compassionate, evidenced based care to individuals who are committed to improving their lives and helping them achieve their full potential.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am a professional who is dedicated to helping individuals with mental health concerns. I provide a range of services, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and support to people with mental illness, substance abuse issues, and other behavioral health issues. I work closely with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans and offer support and guidance throughout the recovery process. I offer compassionate, evidenced based care to individuals who are committed to improving their lives and helping them achieve their full potential.
(430) 224-0159 View (430) 224-0159
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75701
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(972) 308-0088 View (972) 308-0088
Photo of Njideka Domrufus - Ziks Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ziks Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75705
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. NJ Domrufus believes in working one to one with each patient to provide expert medical treatment, guidance and care tailored specifically for their health concerns. She conducts psychiatric assessments and makes recommendations for treatment which often includes psychiatric medications and brief solution focused therapy.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. NJ Domrufus believes in working one to one with each patient to provide expert medical treatment, guidance and care tailored specifically for their health concerns. She conducts psychiatric assessments and makes recommendations for treatment which often includes psychiatric medications and brief solution focused therapy.
(469) 281-7205 View (469) 281-7205
Photo of Pamela Bradley, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Bradley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75701  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated, empathetic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified. My compassionate approach ensures that each client receives personalized care tailored for their psychiatric needs. I want to support each client in their journey to reach their goals.
I am a dedicated, empathetic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified. My compassionate approach ensures that each client receives personalized care tailored for their psychiatric needs. I want to support each client in their journey to reach their goals.
(903) 496-5412 View (903) 496-5412
Photo of Accessible Psychiatry And Consultation Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Accessible Psychiatry And Consultation Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75704  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients!....Welcome to Accessible Psychiatry, a behavioral health clinic. Mental health issues can be a challenge and hence affect one's quality of life and that of the family as well. so if you or your family member is battling with these issues: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, addiction, Sleep disorders, eating disorders among others, then you are in the right place to get a long-term solution. For private pay, we have a sliding scale. visit our web htts: accessiblepsychiatry.org or call us today
Now accepting new patients!....Welcome to Accessible Psychiatry, a behavioral health clinic. Mental health issues can be a challenge and hence affect one's quality of life and that of the family as well. so if you or your family member is battling with these issues: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, addiction, Sleep disorders, eating disorders among others, then you are in the right place to get a long-term solution. For private pay, we have a sliding scale. visit our web htts: accessiblepsychiatry.org or call us today
(214) 833-7613 View (214) 833-7613
Photo of Deanette James, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deanette James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75701  (Online Only)
Deanette James specializes in providing mental health medication management to women, especially those in the working-class group, who are experiencing the burdens of life. If you are a woman who is a wife, a homemaker, a mother, a professional, a daughter, has family responsibilities, or other factors contributing to a decline in your mental health, she is the person to see. Her services focus on women experiencing anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She understands that these disorders are very prevalent and act as determinants of the outcome of a woman's daily life.
Deanette James specializes in providing mental health medication management to women, especially those in the working-class group, who are experiencing the burdens of life. If you are a woman who is a wife, a homemaker, a mother, a professional, a daughter, has family responsibilities, or other factors contributing to a decline in your mental health, she is the person to see. Her services focus on women experiencing anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She understands that these disorders are very prevalent and act as determinants of the outcome of a woman's daily life.
(832) 479-3548 View (832) 479-3548
Photo of Peter Formusoh - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75701
We are accepting new patients, and yes, we will see you within 24 to 72 hours. Book your appointment online today! I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. For the last 13 years, I have worked various mental health settings and have witnessed the profound impacts of mental health treatment.
We are accepting new patients, and yes, we will see you within 24 to 72 hours. Book your appointment online today! I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. For the last 13 years, I have worked various mental health settings and have witnessed the profound impacts of mental health treatment.
(512) 229-9650 View (512) 229-9650
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75702  (Online Only)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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See more therapy options for Smith County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Smith County, TX

30+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Smith County, TX who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
93% Depression
90% Bipolar Disorder
87% Medication Management
80% Trauma and PTSD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% ADHD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Smith County, TX see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Smith County?

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.