Psychiatrists in 77007
![Photo of Alice R Mao, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c2da024-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Alice Mao has been in practice in Houston for over 18 years. She is a Professor of Psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and is in the private practice of adult and child psychiatry. She graduated from Rice University, University of Texas Medical School in Houston and completed residencies in adult and child psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Dr. Mao is board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Alice Mao has been in practice in Houston for over 18 years. She is a Professor of Psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and is in the private practice of adult and child psychiatry. She graduated from Rice University, University of Texas Medical School in Houston and completed residencies in adult and child psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Dr. Mao is board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
![Photo of Surya Abraham, APRN, NP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bce05b17-0061-485e-802b-c6c9f2972b25/1/320x400.jpeg)
Surya Abraham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007
There doesn't need to be any fear or shame associated with seeking help for mental health concerns. I believe in a holistic approach that combines medication with non-medication behavioral modifications, with focus on physical health and positive lifestyle changes.
There doesn't need to be any fear or shame associated with seeking help for mental health concerns. I believe in a holistic approach that combines medication with non-medication behavioral modifications, with focus on physical health and positive lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Mohsin Zafar - Tranquilliem Health PLLC, MD, MSE, MSc, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e87dd591-e390-48c3-bbe5-734b1b93263c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquilliem Health PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MSE, MSc
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
Tired of the same turn-stile visits? Are you feeling misunderstood? Is your doctor not listening to you? Are you taking half a dozen pills and still feeling the same?
Tired of the same turn-stile visits? Are you feeling misunderstood? Is your doctor not listening to you? Are you taking half a dozen pills and still feeling the same?
![Photo of Brandi M Gebhardt, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d04e3e9-839e-4a67-822a-39e14f336e0a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.
Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.
![Photo of Amy Enis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d02309b-ea46-4269-94d8-56995032522f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Congrats on taking the first step to wellness! Whether you have struggled with mental health issues all your life or if this is new for you, you're in the right place. I have a passion for helping others' find their best selves; it's never too late to start this journey! I see adults age 18 and up for acute and chronic depression, anxiety and panic, stress, grief, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and PTSD, among others.
Welcome! Congrats on taking the first step to wellness! Whether you have struggled with mental health issues all your life or if this is new for you, you're in the right place. I have a passion for helping others' find their best selves; it's never too late to start this journey! I see adults age 18 and up for acute and chronic depression, anxiety and panic, stress, grief, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and PTSD, among others.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/069f0e30-d729-42a7-b0dd-b4f1c8b7f95a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Emmanuel Okoroafor - Recovery Mental Healthcare PLLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db2ae4cf-1c64-4f87-9872-17436c34f9aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Recovery Mental Healthcare PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
Emmanuel Okoroafor is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the state of Texas, Holding a dual speciality in Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. He holds a Family nurse practitioner degree from Simons University in Boston and a Psychiatric nurse practitioner certification at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Emmanuel uses his knowledge and experience to help clients ease into recovery from mental health disorders especially Substance use disorder. Specialize in Opioid use disorder and treat with (Suboxone/Buprenorphine), Book now.
Emmanuel Okoroafor is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the state of Texas, Holding a dual speciality in Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. He holds a Family nurse practitioner degree from Simons University in Boston and a Psychiatric nurse practitioner certification at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Emmanuel uses his knowledge and experience to help clients ease into recovery from mental health disorders especially Substance use disorder. Specialize in Opioid use disorder and treat with (Suboxone/Buprenorphine), Book now.
![Photo of Delisa Brooks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/964fc597-6b5e-4e6b-a9dd-026f66ea7093/1/320x400.png)
Delisa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
![Photo of Linzi Leighton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d45fef0-743d-4133-ac6c-6b9556c9dd22/1/320x400.png)
Linzi Leighton is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2005 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in 2012. Linzi believes in using a collaborate approach that is patient-centered and individualized. She provides support, guidance, and education to address individual needs and enhance emotional well-being.
Linzi Leighton is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2005 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in 2012. Linzi believes in using a collaborate approach that is patient-centered and individualized. She provides support, guidance, and education to address individual needs and enhance emotional well-being.
![Photo of Amanda Barrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb804afe-4af9-4199-85d5-5196ac4c548b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I first obtained my Bachelor's in Psychology from Appalachian State University in 2007. I then completed my Diploma in Nursing from Watts School of Nursing in Durham, NC in 2010. While working full time in the local hospital as a registered nurse, I put myself through school to obtain my Bachelor's in Nursing from Appalachian State University in 2010. Life happened and I moved to Ohio to complete my Master's in Nursing; Family Nurse Practitioner from Ohio University while working as a nurse on a med-surge unit.
I first obtained my Bachelor's in Psychology from Appalachian State University in 2007. I then completed my Diploma in Nursing from Watts School of Nursing in Durham, NC in 2010. While working full time in the local hospital as a registered nurse, I put myself through school to obtain my Bachelor's in Nursing from Appalachian State University in 2010. Life happened and I moved to Ohio to complete my Master's in Nursing; Family Nurse Practitioner from Ohio University while working as a nurse on a med-surge unit.
![Photo of Alissa Carver, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/921665fb-7f43-4dcd-9cd5-6e54172cc805/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alissa Carver is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She earned an MSN at University of Texas at Austin and an MS at Texas Woman’s University. Alissa started providing clinical help with patients as a licensed professional counselor in 2009, providing mental health services such as therapy and family training in the areas of hospice, inpatient mental health, and brain injury rehabilitation. During this time, Alissa deepened her appreciation for the role of medication in maintaining mental wellness and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in 2023.
Alissa Carver is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She earned an MSN at University of Texas at Austin and an MS at Texas Woman’s University. Alissa started providing clinical help with patients as a licensed professional counselor in 2009, providing mental health services such as therapy and family training in the areas of hospice, inpatient mental health, and brain injury rehabilitation. During this time, Alissa deepened her appreciation for the role of medication in maintaining mental wellness and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in 2023.
15 Second Videos
Olivier Djoumessi
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![Photo of Maher Chehab, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d9abd05-3807-4395-95c8-f2c5392994b4/2/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Maher Chehab and offer immediate face to face and tele visits. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with education and training in treating clients with mental health conditions across the lifespan.
Hello, my name is Maher Chehab and offer immediate face to face and tele visits. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with education and training in treating clients with mental health conditions across the lifespan.
![Photo of Halee Fullerton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0f46859-a6c7-4e3a-b8e0-fd94a2d68645/1/320x400.jpeg)
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
![Photo of Adeola Iyamah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb3c4243-5069-4d7a-bd38-6ee43db65a38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adeola Iyamah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
Dr. Adeola Iyamah DNP, PMHNP-BC. Specialized in treating mental health disorders such as Depression disorder, Anxiety disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD, etc... Initial evaluation and medication management. I am a good listener, and my patient satisfaction comes first. We are on this journey together don't feel lonely, reach out and seek help. I am dependable. good listener and open-minded, solution-focused, Behavior modification, turn negative thought into positive thinking. I create a non-judgmental environment, Involve patients in their treatment plans. Patients feel loved and their voices heard.
Dr. Adeola Iyamah DNP, PMHNP-BC. Specialized in treating mental health disorders such as Depression disorder, Anxiety disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD, etc... Initial evaluation and medication management. I am a good listener, and my patient satisfaction comes first. We are on this journey together don't feel lonely, reach out and seek help. I am dependable. good listener and open-minded, solution-focused, Behavior modification, turn negative thought into positive thinking. I create a non-judgmental environment, Involve patients in their treatment plans. Patients feel loved and their voices heard.
![Photo of Daniela White, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31f0e92e-f887-4abd-ad14-c88bb0369990/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Daniela White is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Board-Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She has been practicing since she received her training in general psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine and followed it with her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Daniela believes in addressing psychiatric conditions with pharmacotherapy and complementary alternative therapies ( light therapy, exercise, supplement augmentation, and neuromodulation through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
Dr. Daniela White is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Board-Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She has been practicing since she received her training in general psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine and followed it with her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Daniela believes in addressing psychiatric conditions with pharmacotherapy and complementary alternative therapies ( light therapy, exercise, supplement augmentation, and neuromodulation through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
![Photo of Chizelle Onochie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec240bd8-0220-4d1c-b62c-0a30231439a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chizelle Onochie is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Boston Medical Center. Dr. Onochie provides medication management for adult patients with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and PTSD/trauma. Outside of work, Dr. Onochie enjoys traveling, writing poetry, and volunteering.
Dr. Chizelle Onochie is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Boston Medical Center. Dr. Onochie provides medication management for adult patients with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and PTSD/trauma. Outside of work, Dr. Onochie enjoys traveling, writing poetry, and volunteering.
![Photo of Jessy Cecil, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ec69c14-5568-42bd-8c36-9f12f90b6fc6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessy Cecil is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of extensive nursing experience. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Phoenix, and Post-Master’s certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Herzing University. Her approach is holistic and patient-centered care in collaboration with other healthcare providers. She places patients’ safety as the priority in addition to quality and cost-effectiveness. She believes that not one size fits all.
Jessy Cecil is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of extensive nursing experience. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Phoenix, and Post-Master’s certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Herzing University. Her approach is holistic and patient-centered care in collaboration with other healthcare providers. She places patients’ safety as the priority in addition to quality and cost-effectiveness. She believes that not one size fits all.
![Photo of Odochi Onungwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c99857c-5769-4d89-a363-43fce29a844c/1/320x400.png)
Odochi Onungwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
Hello everyone, my name is Dr. Odochi Onungwa and I am a Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Helping patients achieve a state of mental stability is my great passion. I see patients across the life and treat major psychiatric illnesses. My approach to therapy utilizes Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, Humanistic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client Centered Therapy, Holistic, Mindfulness-Based, and Supportive.
Hello everyone, my name is Dr. Odochi Onungwa and I am a Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Helping patients achieve a state of mental stability is my great passion. I see patients across the life and treat major psychiatric illnesses. My approach to therapy utilizes Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, Humanistic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client Centered Therapy, Holistic, Mindfulness-Based, and Supportive.
![Photo of Kymberli Williams-Zeno - Vitality by Kym, MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba439883-b5dc-4ed0-867f-ea75f896d6b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vitality by Kym
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007
Are you tired of being treated with medications ONLY as your primary form of mental health management? Do you wish that each of your appointments included other forms of treatment such as supportive therapy or coaching for added support? Have you ever been assessed for medical issues such as mineral/vitamin deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, which could play a major role in effective healing and recovery? Being diagnosed with or having signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorders warrants dedicated individualized attention, that includes support and diverse management for best patient outcomes.
Are you tired of being treated with medications ONLY as your primary form of mental health management? Do you wish that each of your appointments included other forms of treatment such as supportive therapy or coaching for added support? Have you ever been assessed for medical issues such as mineral/vitamin deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, which could play a major role in effective healing and recovery? Being diagnosed with or having signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorders warrants dedicated individualized attention, that includes support and diverse management for best patient outcomes.
![Photo of Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89c3d8bb-35b9-43e8-880f-18e834045215/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
See more therapy options for 77007
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 77007
30+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 77007 who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
94% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Sleep or Insomnia |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 77007 see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 77007?
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.