Psychiatrists in Stonewall County, TX

Photo of Shellylice Thomas, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shellylice Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has more than 25 years of varied experience in healthcare. I provide person-centered care with the client's best interests at the forefront of any treatment decisions. My focus is to provide empathetic and accessible care to the patients with mental health problems. I am aware of the toll of mental health problems on the client's functioning in relationships, work, and study settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has more than 25 years of varied experience in healthcare. I provide person-centered care with the client's best interests at the forefront of any treatment decisions. My focus is to provide empathetic and accessible care to the patients with mental health problems. I am aware of the toll of mental health problems on the client's functioning in relationships, work, and study settings.
(469) 529-6659 View (469) 529-6659

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Abilene, TX 79606
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.
(325) 312-3044 View (325) 312-3044
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
(806) 498-1433 View (806) 498-1433
Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
(806) 531-3327 View (806) 531-3327
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and your experiences genuinely matter? If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, you don't have to face it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and personal growth, aiming for lasting well-being beyond just temporary relief.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and your experiences genuinely matter? If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, you don't have to face it alone. My focus is on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and personal growth, aiming for lasting well-being beyond just temporary relief.
(806) 666-0281 View (806) 666-0281
Photo of Danielle Koonce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Koonce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79423
I provide both in-person and virtual appointments in Lubbock as a West Texas native. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with expertise in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and adults aged 4 and up. My specialties include autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic disorders, OCD, PTSD, binge-eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, perinatal psychiatry, postpartum depression, PMDD, and weight gain related to psychiatric medications.
I provide both in-person and virtual appointments in Lubbock as a West Texas native. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with expertise in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and adults aged 4 and up. My specialties include autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic disorders, OCD, PTSD, binge-eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, perinatal psychiatry, postpartum depression, PMDD, and weight gain related to psychiatric medications.
(806) 591-4571 View (806) 591-4571
Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Envision a space where your story is the focal point—a sanctuary where you're genuinely heard and your experiences truly matter. If you're grappling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood issues, you don't have to face it alone. My approach centers on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any labels or diagnoses. In a warm and accepting environment, we'll delve into the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and growth, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(806) 304-0435 View (806) 304-0435
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Abilene, TX 79606
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.
(325) 550-1218 View (325) 550-1218
Photo of Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
Imagine a place where your story takes center stage—a safe haven where you're truly heard and understood beyond any diagnosis or label. If you're navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support in a warm, non-judgmental environment. My passion is helping individuals like you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond just managing symptoms to achieve lasting well-being.
(806) 375-4059 View (806) 375-4059
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I’m Nkechi Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. My journey began as a nurse in Africa, where I worked in oncology, mental health, and women’s health. Witnessing the unmet mental health needs of patients inspired me to specialize in psychiatry. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, particularly in underserved communities, and creating a space where you feel heard and understood.
(806) 615-4412 View (806) 615-4412
Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
(806) 307-8555 View (806) 307-8555
Photo of Bridgett Gant, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Picture a place where your voice is not just heard but truly understood—a sanctuary where your experiences matter more than any label or diagnosis. If you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood challenges, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support, focusing on who you are as a person. My mission is to help you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles in a warm, non-judgmental space. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond symptom management to achieve lasting well-being.
Picture a place where your voice is not just heard but truly understood—a sanctuary where your experiences matter more than any label or diagnosis. If you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, OCD, or mood challenges, you don't have to face them alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support, focusing on who you are as a person. My mission is to help you uncover and transform the root causes of your struggles in a warm, non-judgmental space. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, moving beyond symptom management to achieve lasting well-being.
(806) 216-4763 View (806) 216-4763
Photo of Lauren Camille Todd, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Camille Todd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I will meet you and partner with you wherever you are in your health journey to work toward total wellbeing. I believe there is no one thing that is a cure all, and almost always more than just one cause to a problem. I believe in practicing health care holistically, integrating lifestyle, nutrition, mindfulness, and pharmacotherapeutics when appropriate. I use evidence-based practices to achieve best outcomes.
I will meet you and partner with you wherever you are in your health journey to work toward total wellbeing. I believe there is no one thing that is a cure all, and almost always more than just one cause to a problem. I believe in practicing health care holistically, integrating lifestyle, nutrition, mindfulness, and pharmacotherapeutics when appropriate. I use evidence-based practices to achieve best outcomes.
(806) 639-5319 View (806) 639-5319
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
(806) 491-1718 View (806) 491-1718
Photo of Bridgett Gant, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
(806) 450-1042 View (806) 450-1042
Photo of Matthew Campbell, MD, Psychiatrist
Matthew Campbell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Matthew Campbell received his medical degree from the University of Washington. He completed psychiatry residency and an addiction fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein. He provides telepsychiatry for adults throughout Connecticut. He is currently taking new patients older than 18 years for comprehensive treatment planning, medication management, and CBT based therapies for substance use disorders and general psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Matthew Campbell received his medical degree from the University of Washington. He completed psychiatry residency and an addiction fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein. He provides telepsychiatry for adults throughout Connecticut. He is currently taking new patients older than 18 years for comprehensive treatment planning, medication management, and CBT based therapies for substance use disorders and general psychiatric conditions.
(512) 399-8565 View (512) 399-8565
Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
Do you long for a space where your story is truly heard and your experiences deeply understood? If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, or mood disturbances, I'm here to offer support. My approach centers on seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. In a warm and welcoming environment, we'll explore the root causes of your challenges. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing and transformation, aiming for lasting well-being rather than just temporary relief.
(806) 615-4226 View (806) 615-4226
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Are you seeking a place where your story is truly heard and respected? Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or mood disturbances can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With over five years of experience, I provide compassionate care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your struggles and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
(806) 586-1903 View (806) 586-1903
Photo of Mica Norman, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mica Norman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Mica, a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Mica, a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
(865) 874-6276 View (865) 874-6276
Photo of Cortney Berkley, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cortney Berkley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Breckenridge, TX 76424
Do you feel like your current medications for your mental health issues are not effective? Or are you looking to start medications to help your symptoms? Are you struggling with negative side effects such as weight gain and fatigue from your current medications?
Do you feel like your current medications for your mental health issues are not effective? Or are you looking to start medications to help your symptoms? Are you struggling with negative side effects such as weight gain and fatigue from your current medications?
(254) 274-3634 View (254) 274-3634

See more therapy options for Stonewall County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Stonewall County, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Stonewall County, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Stonewall County, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Stonewall 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.