Psychiatrists in Victoria, TX

Photo of Kourtne Roberts - Crossroads Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Crossroads Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Victoria, TX 77904  (Online Only)
My role in your treatment is to: (1) Diagnose a mental health condition (if one exists). (2) Determine if medications could be safe and helpful for your condition. (3) Maximize the benefit of medications, without doing harm. All to help you lead a more fulfilling life. A Psychiatrist is needed when talk therapy is not enough to achieve the goal of stabilizing your condition and getting you to feel better. As a medical doctor, my job in your care is to manage psychotropic medications.
My role in your treatment is to: (1) Diagnose a mental health condition (if one exists). (2) Determine if medications could be safe and helpful for your condition. (3) Maximize the benefit of medications, without doing harm. All to help you lead a more fulfilling life. A Psychiatrist is needed when talk therapy is not enough to achieve the goal of stabilizing your condition and getting you to feel better. As a medical doctor, my job in your care is to manage psychotropic medications.
(361) 441-0763 View (361) 441-0763
Photo of Lawrence Oke Jr - Simple Psychiatric Solutions, PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Simple Psychiatric Solutions, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, TX 77901  (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in both mental health and medical settings, I approach treatment holistically, considering the mind-body connection to support overall well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With extensive experience in both mental health and medical settings, I approach treatment holistically, considering the mind-body connection to support overall well-being.
(346) 536-3489 View (346) 536-3489
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Victoria, TX 77901
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.
(281) 942-8779 View (281) 942-8779
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Victoria, TX 77901
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.
(346) 514-4159 View (346) 514-4159
Photo of Dr. Edmund Munde, DNP, PMHNP-B, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Edmund Munde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, TX 77902
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We are accepting new patients with appointments available within a week. If you're overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life changes, stressful events, or substance use, you're not alone. We provide guidance for healing and self-discovery through a holistic approach that addresses symptoms and underlying causes. We use evidence-based approach to treat our patients. At PHC, we treat conditions like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders.
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We are accepting new patients with appointments available within a week. If you're overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life changes, stressful events, or substance use, you're not alone. We provide guidance for healing and self-discovery through a holistic approach that addresses symptoms and underlying causes. We use evidence-based approach to treat our patients. At PHC, we treat conditions like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders.
(832) 307-0167 View (832) 307-0167
Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C,  , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C,
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, TX 77903
Are you feeling down, worried, angry or struggling with life's challenges? Are you unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. You won't wait long to see me, and we can even meet online (Telehealth). I strive to offer a non-judgmental and healing space for you to make the changes you want.
Are you feeling down, worried, angry or struggling with life's challenges? Are you unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. You won't wait long to see me, and we can even meet online (Telehealth). I strive to offer a non-judgmental and healing space for you to make the changes you want.
(281) 524-2834 View (281) 524-2834

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Brian Zachariah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Brian Zachariah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
Dr. Brian Zachariah is a board-certified psychiatrist and believes in tailoring his approach to meet each patient’s unique needs. He uses a multi-modal approach, incorporating medication management, patient empowerment, and psychoeducation to improve patients’ quality of life.
Dr. Brian Zachariah is a board-certified psychiatrist and believes in tailoring his approach to meet each patient’s unique needs. He uses a multi-modal approach, incorporating medication management, patient empowerment, and psychoeducation to improve patients’ quality of life.
(855) 976-2039 View (855) 976-2039
Photo of Dr. Adenike Adigun, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adenike Adigun
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
Dr. Adenike Adigun is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and works with diverse groups of individuals and their families to bring meaningful and positive change into their lives. Dr. Adigun diagnoses and treats mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ADD, ODD, and autism spectrum disorder. She provides a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to assess, stabilize, and empathically treat patients. Dr. Adigun uses evidence-based psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatments.
Dr. Adenike Adigun is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and works with diverse groups of individuals and their families to bring meaningful and positive change into their lives. Dr. Adigun diagnoses and treats mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ADD, ODD, and autism spectrum disorder. She provides a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to assess, stabilize, and empathically treat patients. Dr. Adigun uses evidence-based psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatments.
(855) 976-2039 View (855) 976-2039
Bernadette Andrea Horton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
As a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner, we are working hard and dedicating our lives to making the lives of others a priority. We work closely with clients to achieve mental wellness and a new beginning. No two people are the same and we treat patients according to their needs. We will provide treatment specifically for you with the utmost respect and trust. We will work as a team to get you the best outcome and treatment modality.
As a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner, we are working hard and dedicating our lives to making the lives of others a priority. We work closely with clients to achieve mental wellness and a new beginning. No two people are the same and we treat patients according to their needs. We will provide treatment specifically for you with the utmost respect and trust. We will work as a team to get you the best outcome and treatment modality.
(210) 361-5015 View (210) 361-5015
Photo of Precious Adaso, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Precious Adaso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77498  (Online Only)
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. She specializes in treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD,OCD and many others. She offers a comprehensive treatment approach from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. She specializes in treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD,OCD and many others. She offers a comprehensive treatment approach from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
(346) 595-4696 View (346) 595-4696
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
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.
(737) 727-2617 View (737) 727-2617
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Life’s challenges, whether they come from anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone looking for support and practical strategies to take control of their mental health. They are ready to make meaningful changes and want a personalized approach that addresses their unique needs. Together, we will create a plan that helps you regain balance, find peace, and move toward a more fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive and move forward with confidence.
Life’s challenges, whether they come from anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone looking for support and practical strategies to take control of their mental health. They are ready to make meaningful changes and want a personalized approach that addresses their unique needs. Together, we will create a plan that helps you regain balance, find peace, and move toward a more fulfilling life. You deserve care that empowers you to thrive and move forward with confidence.
(726) 227-2467 View (726) 227-2467
Photo of Dr. Sireesha Chimata, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sireesha Chimata
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
Dr. Sireesha Chimata understands that mental health is complex and can be daunting for patients and their families. Dr. Chimata wants her patients to gain stability and be at peace. She uses an evidence-based approach to therapy.
Dr. Sireesha Chimata understands that mental health is complex and can be daunting for patients and their families. Dr. Chimata wants her patients to gain stability and be at peace. She uses an evidence-based approach to therapy.
(855) 976-2039 View (855) 976-2039
Photo of Trenice Johnson, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78215
Dr. Trenice Johnson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is an experienced national board certified nurse practitioner who has practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services. She strongly believes in the importance of mental healthcare and she is thrilled to continue to embark upon. Helping clients with the goals of developing insight into their emotions and behaviors during the course of their treatment, while allowing her to gain trust and respect from those whom suffer from the problems of stress, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and culture stress problems.
Dr. Trenice Johnson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is an experienced national board certified nurse practitioner who has practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services. She strongly believes in the importance of mental healthcare and she is thrilled to continue to embark upon. Helping clients with the goals of developing insight into their emotions and behaviors during the course of their treatment, while allowing her to gain trust and respect from those whom suffer from the problems of stress, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and culture stress problems.
(726) 227-2993 View (726) 227-2993
Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Corpus Christi, TX 78411  (Online Only)
Dealing with anxiety, depression, or a major life change can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone looking for guidance, understanding, and practical steps to take control of their mental health. They are ready to focus on their well-being and find a personalized path toward balance and healing. Together, we’ll build a treatment plan that addresses your unique challenges and helps you move toward a happier, more fulfilling life. You deserve care that respects your individual needs and empowers you to make positive changes.
Dealing with anxiety, depression, or a major life change can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone looking for guidance, understanding, and practical steps to take control of their mental health. They are ready to focus on their well-being and find a personalized path toward balance and healing. Together, we’ll build a treatment plan that addresses your unique challenges and helps you move toward a happier, more fulfilling life. You deserve care that respects your individual needs and empowers you to make positive changes.
(361) 322-8444 View (361) 322-8444
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
(726) 204-5684 View (726) 204-5684
Photo of Munira Jiwani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Life’s challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or significant transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone ready to take the next step toward healing and personal growth. They seek a supportive and personalized approach that helps them regain control and create balance in their life. Together, we will craft a plan tailored to your unique experiences and goals, helping you build a healthier, more fulfilling future. You deserve care that truly listens and supports your mental health journey.
Life’s challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or significant transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone ready to take the next step toward healing and personal growth. They seek a supportive and personalized approach that helps them regain control and create balance in their life. Together, we will craft a plan tailored to your unique experiences and goals, helping you build a healthier, more fulfilling future. You deserve care that truly listens and supports your mental health journey.
(210) 761-4431 View (210) 761-4431
Photo of Paul Edward Hunnicutt - Texas Mental Health and Wellness Center PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CMGT-BC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Texas Mental Health and Wellness Center PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CMGT-BC, CCM
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Seguin, TX 78155  (Online Only)
Imagine finding relief from the anxiety and stress that weighs you down and discovering a place to rebuild peace within yourself! I work with Texans—especially first responders, nurses, and veterans—who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, and burnout. My clients often seek to break free from stress cycles and regain a sense of purpose and calm. With a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I provide support tailored to their experiences, offering tools for sustainable wellness. Together, we’ll work to help you reconnect with resilience and create a pathway toward a balanced, fulfilling life.
Imagine finding relief from the anxiety and stress that weighs you down and discovering a place to rebuild peace within yourself! I work with Texans—especially first responders, nurses, and veterans—who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, and burnout. My clients often seek to break free from stress cycles and regain a sense of purpose and calm. With a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I provide support tailored to their experiences, offering tools for sustainable wellness. Together, we’ll work to help you reconnect with resilience and create a pathway toward a balanced, fulfilling life.
(830) 445-2671 View (830) 445-2671
Photo of Yahya Saeed - Dr Yahya Saeed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Yahya Saeed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
(346) 512-3713 View (346) 512-3713
Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
(726) 232-5757 View (726) 232-5757

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Victoria, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Victoria, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
67% Addiction

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Victoria, TX see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Male
20% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Victoria?

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.