Psychiatrists in Tyler, TX

Photo of Aaron Padron - Insightful Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Insightful Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available. www.insightfulpsychiatry.com
(206) 620-1222 View (206) 620-1222
Photo of Sonja Renee Hampshire - Fresh Start Psychiatry and Recovery, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, CARN-AP
Fresh Start Psychiatry and Recovery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, CARN-AP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
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!
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!
(903) 600-9210 View (903) 600-9210
Photo of Mary Katherine Richey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Mary Katherine Richey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75707
At Cypress Psychiatry our approach to mental health care is holistic, integrating the mind, body, and spirit while fostering self-awareness and trust. I offer a practical, evidence-based approach to enhance daily functioning and overall quality of life, viewing psychiatric symptoms as meaningful signals from both the soul and body—key insights in the healing process.
At Cypress Psychiatry our approach to mental health care is holistic, integrating the mind, body, and spirit while fostering self-awareness and trust. I offer a practical, evidence-based approach to enhance daily functioning and overall quality of life, viewing psychiatric symptoms as meaningful signals from both the soul and body—key insights in the healing process.
(903) 523-1296 View (903) 523-1296
Photo of Rita Chioma Uduma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MS, PMHNP
Rita Chioma Uduma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MS, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Rita Chioma Uduma. My practice, Uduma Behavioral Health Services is currently accepting new patients. Contact me today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards better mental health. I specialize in mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. I am able to assess, evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood disorders, and Personality disorders. My 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.
Hi, I'm Rita Chioma Uduma. My practice, Uduma Behavioral Health Services is currently accepting new patients. Contact me today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards better mental health. I specialize in mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. I am able to assess, evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood disorders, and Personality disorders. My 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 Amanda Blalock - Whispering Pines Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Whispering Pines Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
Now Accepting NEW Clients! You’re not alone. At Whispering Pines Psychiatry, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when mental health challenges seem to take control. Whether it’s persistent worry, sadness, or simply feeling stuck, we’re here to help you find relief and rediscover your strength. Imagine waking up feeling more like yourself again—calmer, more balanced, and ready to take on life’s challenges. That’s the kind of care we’re committed to providing: personalized, compassionate, and focused on you.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! You’re not alone. At Whispering Pines Psychiatry, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when mental health challenges seem to take control. Whether it’s persistent worry, sadness, or simply feeling stuck, we’re here to help you find relief and rediscover your strength. Imagine waking up feeling more like yourself again—calmer, more balanced, and ready to take on life’s challenges. That’s the kind of care we’re committed to providing: personalized, compassionate, and focused on you.
(903) 474-8643 View (903) 474-8643
Photo of Emily Dees, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Emily Dees
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
I understand that seeking help can feel like a big step, and I want to make this process as comfortable and supportive as possible for you. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing a mental health condition, I’m here to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan that works for your unique needs.
I understand that seeking help can feel like a big step, and I want to make this process as comfortable and supportive as possible for you. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing a mental health condition, I’m here to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan that works for your unique needs.
(903) 865-3354 View (903) 865-3354
Photo of Angela Dale Sanders - Creekdale Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Creekdale Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
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 Antonio Lejaun Brigham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNP-C
Antonio Lejaun Brigham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNP-C
Tyler, TX 75703
At East Texas Psychiatry and Counseling, I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. I provide personalized psychiatric care through thorough evaluations, careful medication management, and supportive, evidence-based therapy. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel truly heard, understood, and empowered to heal. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or major life changes, I am here to walk beside you. Together, we will build a treatment plan that fits your unique needs and supports you in moving toward a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life.
At East Texas Psychiatry and Counseling, I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. I provide personalized psychiatric care through thorough evaluations, careful medication management, and supportive, evidence-based therapy. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel truly heard, understood, and empowered to heal. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or major life changes, I am here to walk beside you. Together, we will build a treatment plan that fits your unique needs and supports you in moving toward a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life.
(430) 288-5800 View (430) 288-5800
Photo of Donna Kathleen Vahovius - Luminosity Mental Health, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Luminosity Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I aim to provide holistic care for my patients. At Luminosity Mnetal Health PLLC, our goal is to partner with our patients to promote resilience. An ideal patient is: 1. Open to Holistic Approaches: Sometimes a medication is not the answer 2. Willingness to engage: the patient is motivated to actively participate in their treatment plan, including therapy sessions, lifestyle changes, and self care practices. 3. Complex Mental Health needs: the patient may present with a range of mental health issues. 4. Desire for Preventative Care: The patient is interested in preventative measures and lifestyle modifications.
I aim to provide holistic care for my patients. At Luminosity Mnetal Health PLLC, our goal is to partner with our patients to promote resilience. An ideal patient is: 1. Open to Holistic Approaches: Sometimes a medication is not the answer 2. Willingness to engage: the patient is motivated to actively participate in their treatment plan, including therapy sessions, lifestyle changes, and self care practices. 3. Complex Mental Health needs: the patient may present with a range of mental health issues. 4. Desire for Preventative Care: The patient is interested in preventative measures and lifestyle modifications.
(903) 345-8791 View (903) 345-8791
Photo of Ranie Meyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Ranie Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
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.
(469) 489-4885 View (469) 489-4885
Photo of Christopher Schuman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Christopher Schuman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
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 Ifeoma Irokwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ifeoma Irokwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Marie Taniform, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marie Taniform
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed and lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, or sometimes cry for no reason? Do you have problems focusing on school, work, or life and wonder why you are so forgetful, unable to concentrate and easily distracted? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss that have left you anxious and on the edge, or do you find it difficult to fall asleep at night and feel exhausted the next day?is your child defiant and refusing to cooperate? I can help you find that right balance to continue living your life optimally.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed and lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, or sometimes cry for no reason? Do you have problems focusing on school, work, or life and wonder why you are so forgetful, unable to concentrate and easily distracted? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss that have left you anxious and on the edge, or do you find it difficult to fall asleep at night and feel exhausted the next day?is your child defiant and refusing to cooperate? I can help you find that right balance to continue living your life optimally.
(737) 387-5128 View (737) 387-5128
Photo of Robin Turner Watson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Robin Turner Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In the current healthcare environment, finding a provider to prescribe medications for mental health concerns can be a difficult and frustrating process. Many people search for months for a prescriber only to be told they must wait even longer on a waiting list. Some shy away from entering treatment due to fear of being judged or looked down upon because of their mental health or addiction struggles. The providers at Resolute are here to bridge the gap for people in need of psychiatric medication management and substance use treatment.
In the current healthcare environment, finding a provider to prescribe medications for mental health concerns can be a difficult and frustrating process. Many people search for months for a prescriber only to be told they must wait even longer on a waiting list. Some shy away from entering treatment due to fear of being judged or looked down upon because of their mental health or addiction struggles. The providers at Resolute are here to bridge the gap for people in need of psychiatric medication management and substance use treatment.
(903) 662-2598 View (903) 662-2598
Photo of Benard Choi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Benard Choi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in private practice, I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep Disorders, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, and various other behavioral issues. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic modalities with personalized care to help my clients achieve optimal well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in private practice, I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep Disorders, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, and various other behavioral issues. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic modalities with personalized care to help my clients achieve optimal well-being.
(214) 833-7613 View (214) 833-7613
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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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Photo of Travis Wacha - Wacha's Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wacha's Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Ashley Morgan Patel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Ashley Morgan Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions and traumas can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Morgan Patel, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, non-judgmental care. I began working as an RN in hospital care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from Walden University to further my interest in mental health.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions and traumas can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Morgan Patel, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, non-judgmental care. I began working as an RN in hospital care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from Walden University to further my interest in mental health.
(903) 282-3794 View (903) 282-3794
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(430) 245-5781 View (430) 245-5781
Photo of Jeremiah Sanders - Resolute - Addiction and Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Resolute - Addiction and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Tyler, TX

30+

Average cost per session

$162

Psychiatrists in Tyler, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
82% Medication Management
76% Trauma and PTSD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
61% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Cigna and Evernorth
94% Aetna
94% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Tyler, TX see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Tyler?

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.