Psychiatrists in 76109
![Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0160e62-eddd-495e-8e68-e1f46c8481a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
![Photo of Ugochi Azubuike, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/667504f1-45a7-4766-9cc7-eb773f467686/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugochi Azubuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Imagine dealing with life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Imagine dealing with life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Dr. Pulcharia Thompson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea7c687b-615d-471b-a346-49a634db025e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Pulcharia Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
![Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543630be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients! visits are remote. Medications will be prescribed electronically. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication + therapy will help improve your symptoms.
Now accepting new patients! visits are remote. Medications will be prescribed electronically. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication + therapy will help improve your symptoms.
![Photo of Jibril Yakubu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0cc55e6-cc01-4ab1-aa9c-d5beba09c163/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
At Legion Health, we understand that mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health, looking for both guidance and support on their journey. They seek practical, effective solutions and a personalized approach that recognizes their unique needs. In a safe and collaborative environment, we’ll work together to build resilience and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
At Legion Health, we understand that mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health, looking for both guidance and support on their journey. They seek practical, effective solutions and a personalized approach that recognizes their unique needs. In a safe and collaborative environment, we’ll work together to build resilience and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
![Photo of Smink Achila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a395baa4-47b8-4811-863f-1cfce4c299e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Nkechi Nduka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e95758fe-78da-4ad2-ab36-b103dbdfeb23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nkechi Nduka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They desire a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They desire a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Lindsey O'Neill, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db5966a-5048-48c7-ae2a-fc856de43a22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey O'Neill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b061eef1-30dc-40cb-8e0e-88d4cd78b50c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (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.
![Photo of Julie Yankowsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6069f548-3e59-4ffe-b90b-9c11a10a775a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (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.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2be3dd17-8d70-4e72-9aad-dcd7e1a7675f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
![Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51620eaf-56d8-46d0-a228-4b2e03b0d719/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
![Photo of Michael Millstone - Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c417b063-ffa4-436a-91b0-efedc3dfbd6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
Eva Kirara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, understanding approach to their mental health. They want to feel heard, supported, and equipped with tools to improve their well-being. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you regain control, find balance, and work toward a more fulfilling, healthier life. You deserve a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to face life’s challenges with confidence.
Life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, understanding approach to their mental health. They want to feel heard, supported, and equipped with tools to improve their well-being. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you regain control, find balance, and work toward a more fulfilling, healthier life. You deserve a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to face life’s challenges with confidence.
![Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/166f3461-6075-4dd0-b688-36b023360bcd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (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.
![Photo of Jaishree Raghavan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2a4980f-799e-43f6-93a5-57c388ed7fe0/1/320x400.png)
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
![Photo of Emily Cook, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2811189-8bef-41f2-bd5b-662c67edf582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
![Photo of Karen Contreras, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59de2bdb-f0c7-47b3-9fd7-76274e950878/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen J. Contreras is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Karen allows her clients space to talk and listens to how they feel. She offers reassurance that they can be helped. Karen is patient and empathetic with all her clients. Outside of work, Karen enjoys outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing with her family and enjoys spending time with her kids and grandkids. She likes to travel and enjoys being by the ocean.
Karen J. Contreras is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Karen allows her clients space to talk and listens to how they feel. She offers reassurance that they can be helped. Karen is patient and empathetic with all her clients. Outside of work, Karen enjoys outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing with her family and enjoys spending time with her kids and grandkids. She likes to travel and enjoys being by the ocean.
![Photo of Stewart Keller, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a34ca22-6664-457d-8e76-e6135d1338ac/2/320x400.png)
Born in Florida, but have lived in Texas for 36 years. Have been in private practice, education and inpatient medical director previously. I enjoy working with adults and providing medication management and supportive and/or solution-focused psychotherapy.
Born in Florida, but have lived in Texas for 36 years. Have been in private practice, education and inpatient medical director previously. I enjoy working with adults and providing medication management and supportive and/or solution-focused psychotherapy.
![Photo of Olubunmi Oladosu - Zenith Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e717f67-bc22-4000-956b-9fd460dd8773/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zenith Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter.
See more therapy options for 76109
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 76109
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 76109 who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
92% | Medication Management |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 76109 see their clients
61% | Online Only | |
39% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 76109?
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.