Psychiatrists in 75232
My name is Eva Kirara, I am a PMHNP-BC serving patients ages 18-65. My professional background of more than 10 years of experience in nursing and medicine offers a wealth of diverse roles in numerous care settings with a concentration in mental health. I firmly believe in collaboration when creating an effective individual treatment plan. This includes mutual trust and respect with the patient and effective communication with other medical providers.
My name is Eva Kirara, I am a PMHNP-BC serving patients ages 18-65. My professional background of more than 10 years of experience in nursing and medicine offers a wealth of diverse roles in numerous care settings with a concentration in mental health. I firmly believe in collaboration when creating an effective individual treatment plan. This includes mutual trust and respect with the patient and effective communication with other medical providers.
My name is Comfort Pokoo, l am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing for the past five years. I am passionate about caring for adults with different mental issues. My approach is to use holistic care for patients and their families. Mostly working with adults diagnosed with major depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, schizophrenia. Substance use disorder. The environment and tone have always been a safe and relaxed, always been a positive therapeutic environment.
My name is Comfort Pokoo, l am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing for the past five years. I am passionate about caring for adults with different mental issues. My approach is to use holistic care for patients and their families. Mostly working with adults diagnosed with major depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, schizophrenia. Substance use disorder. The environment and tone have always been a safe and relaxed, always been a positive therapeutic environment.
Dr. Manju R. Goyal is currently in practice of outpatient psychiatry at 5477 Glen Lakes Dr, Suite 210, Dallas, Texas. She has resided in Dallas area since 1982 and has more than 35 years of experience of treating psychiatric problems in both inpatient and outpatient arena. She uses a comprehensive approach including both psychotherapy and medication if necessary, to evaluate and treat patients and if possible bring symptoms to full remission. She specializes in treating different psychiatric disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, anxiety, panic disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
Dr. Manju R. Goyal is currently in practice of outpatient psychiatry at 5477 Glen Lakes Dr, Suite 210, Dallas, Texas. She has resided in Dallas area since 1982 and has more than 35 years of experience of treating psychiatric problems in both inpatient and outpatient arena. She uses a comprehensive approach including both psychotherapy and medication if necessary, to evaluate and treat patients and if possible bring symptoms to full remission. She specializes in treating different psychiatric disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, anxiety, panic disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
Shola Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75232 (Online Only)
Hello! I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Texas with specialized training from Northern Kentucky University. I’m licensed in Texas, New Mexico, and Iowa. I work with individuals from ages 13 to 90 years, providing comprehensive care to help them overcome depression, anxiety, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) insomnia, panic disorder, and mood disorders. My goal is to support my clients in returning to their normal daily routines with improved mental health and well-being. In addition, I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
Hello! I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Texas with specialized training from Northern Kentucky University. I’m licensed in Texas, New Mexico, and Iowa. I work with individuals from ages 13 to 90 years, providing comprehensive care to help them overcome depression, anxiety, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) insomnia, panic disorder, and mood disorders. My goal is to support my clients in returning to their normal daily routines with improved mental health and well-being. In addition, I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Dr. Esiah Allen (Medication Management Provider)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desoto, TX 75115 (Online Only)
******ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS- Ages 6-55 YEARS OLD***** Dr. Esiah Allen, owner of PYOU'RE Life Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, is a doctorally prepared Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evaluating, diagnosing, & treating various mental health conditions. Dr. Allen treats CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, & ADULTS ages 6-55 yrs old. Her service area includes all of Texas including DFW & surrounding cities. Dr. Allen is proud to provide a high-quality level of customer service, healthcare experience, & commitment to health & wellness. Her goal is to help her patients feel better as quickly as possible!
******ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS- Ages 6-55 YEARS OLD***** Dr. Esiah Allen, owner of PYOU'RE Life Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, is a doctorally prepared Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evaluating, diagnosing, & treating various mental health conditions. Dr. Allen treats CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, & ADULTS ages 6-55 yrs old. Her service area includes all of Texas including DFW & surrounding cities. Dr. Allen is proud to provide a high-quality level of customer service, healthcare experience, & commitment to health & wellness. Her goal is to help her patients feel better as quickly as possible!
Omolara Oloye-Adelusi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lancaster, TX 75134
I want to help those suffering with ADHD, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, and other mental health issues. I want to truly listen to the needs of my patients and formulate an individualized plan to get you feeling better. I am here to support you in this journey through a combination of pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy approaches. I prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas. Accepting most insurance and self-pay. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist.
I want to help those suffering with ADHD, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, and other mental health issues. I want to truly listen to the needs of my patients and formulate an individualized plan to get you feeling better. I am here to support you in this journey through a combination of pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy approaches. I prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas. Accepting most insurance and self-pay. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist.
Crystal Mind Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Lancaster, TX 75134
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75224 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
Michael Akwo Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Desoto, TX 75115 (Online Only)
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Esther Aruna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desoto, TX 75115 (Online Only)
Now accepting new CLIENTS in TX, AZ,WY,VA,WA. Are you Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, feeling down, difficulty with sleep and anxious due to life stressors? we offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation & treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Let us be a part of your mental health journey. Our goal is to help you live a functional life.
Now accepting new CLIENTS in TX, AZ,WY,VA,WA. Are you Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, feeling down, difficulty with sleep and anxious due to life stressors? we offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation & treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Let us be a part of your mental health journey. Our goal is to help you live a functional life.
Supreme Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desoto, TX 75115
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington. Your mental health needs is our priority at Supreme Psychiatry. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stressful life events and finding it difficult to function in your day-to-day life? Current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. I specialize in treating both children, preteens, adolescents, and Adult
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington. Your mental health needs is our priority at Supreme Psychiatry. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stressful life events and finding it difficult to function in your day-to-day life? Current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. I specialize in treating both children, preteens, adolescents, and Adult
Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desoto, TX 75115
Violet Ashu, an ANCC board-certified PMHNP-BC, specializes in providing client-centered mental health services using evidence-based, holistic, individualized care to enable clients to achieve a healthy, productive, and positive sense of self. Has experience in psychiatric/medical settings for 16 years. Good mental health is our greatest wealth, but poor mental health makes us more vulnerable to certain physical health issues. Work experience was with Intouch Psychiatry, Meditelecare, and Done Health. Currently with Grow Therapy, ALMA, Headway, Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness, Rula Health, and Texas Health Resources.
Violet Ashu, an ANCC board-certified PMHNP-BC, specializes in providing client-centered mental health services using evidence-based, holistic, individualized care to enable clients to achieve a healthy, productive, and positive sense of self. Has experience in psychiatric/medical settings for 16 years. Good mental health is our greatest wealth, but poor mental health makes us more vulnerable to certain physical health issues. Work experience was with Intouch Psychiatry, Meditelecare, and Done Health. Currently with Grow Therapy, ALMA, Headway, Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness, Rula Health, and Texas Health Resources.
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Beatrice May is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training in mental health and chemical dependency with over ten years of clinical experience. She is licensed in Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona. She is available in person in Colorado or virtually -Telehealth- in CO, TX, NM & AZ . Education: Bachelors of Science in Nursing - UT Arlington; Masters of Nursing Degree - Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner - Walden University. Ms. May applies evidence-based practices that are based on current research to promote optimum outcomes and quality of life for her patients.
Beatrice May is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training in mental health and chemical dependency with over ten years of clinical experience. She is licensed in Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona. She is available in person in Colorado or virtually -Telehealth- in CO, TX, NM & AZ . Education: Bachelors of Science in Nursing - UT Arlington; Masters of Nursing Degree - Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner - Walden University. Ms. May applies evidence-based practices that are based on current research to promote optimum outcomes and quality of life for her patients.
Hello, I am honored to introduce myself as a disciple of Christ and a dedicated Physician Assistant. My commitment lies in providing comprehensive mental health care that is holistic and patient-centered. I place great emphasis on collaborating with each individual, ensuring their active participation in decision-making throughout their healing process. With a unique blend of medical expertise and psychological insight, I offer compassionate care grounded in evidence-based practices. Every person who walks through my door is greeted with respect and empathy, regardless of their background or struggles. My faith serves as the
Hello, I am honored to introduce myself as a disciple of Christ and a dedicated Physician Assistant. My commitment lies in providing comprehensive mental health care that is holistic and patient-centered. I place great emphasis on collaborating with each individual, ensuring their active participation in decision-making throughout their healing process. With a unique blend of medical expertise and psychological insight, I offer compassionate care grounded in evidence-based practices. Every person who walks through my door is greeted with respect and empathy, regardless of their background or struggles. My faith serves as the
Dr. Ebere Ejike-Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75116 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. I want to appreciate your courage in taking that initial bold step in seeking help for your mental health needs. Are you or your loved one dealing with crippling effects of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and Insomnia? Have you been waiting for months to get the treatment you deserve for your mental health? Getting an early diagnosis and treatment tailored to you is our ultimate priority. The wait is over because Accessible Psychiatry PLLC is the right place for you.
Hello and welcome. I want to appreciate your courage in taking that initial bold step in seeking help for your mental health needs. Are you or your loved one dealing with crippling effects of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and Insomnia? Have you been waiting for months to get the treatment you deserve for your mental health? Getting an early diagnosis and treatment tailored to you is our ultimate priority. The wait is over because Accessible Psychiatry PLLC is the right place for you.
Jhaurel Johnson White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75224 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
Mental health knows no socio-economic boundaries. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who takes pride in providing holistic individualized care across the life span. Our model at Leanonme Psychiatry is to be the shoulders you can lean and depend on.
Mental health knows no socio-economic boundaries. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who takes pride in providing holistic individualized care across the life span. Our model at Leanonme Psychiatry is to be the shoulders you can lean and depend on.
Safe Space psychiatry group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Freddy, Akoko
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116 (Online Only)
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
See more therapy options for 75232
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 75232
< 10
Psychiatrists in 75232 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Psychosis |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Other |
Average years in practice
42 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 75232 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 75232?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.