Psychiatrists in 77581
![Photo of Kimberly Wingard, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dc1735c-5535-42b8-957b-6a8d55e87089/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Wingard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Are you feeling overwhelmed by symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or ADD/ADHD? Maybe you're struggling with substance use issues and searching for a way to regain control of your life. I know how challenging this journey can be, and I'm here to offer you the compassionate support you deserve. At Vitality Wellness Clinic, I provide a custom approach to each client, along with continuous support, effective treatment plans, and a safe space for you to share your journey. My goal is to help you feel better, achieve emotional stability, and reclaim your joy and purpose in life!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or ADD/ADHD? Maybe you're struggling with substance use issues and searching for a way to regain control of your life. I know how challenging this journey can be, and I'm here to offer you the compassionate support you deserve. At Vitality Wellness Clinic, I provide a custom approach to each client, along with continuous support, effective treatment plans, and a safe space for you to share your journey. My goal is to help you feel better, achieve emotional stability, and reclaim your joy and purpose in life!
![Photo of Onyinyechi Nwakanma, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1932483f-9033-4a5f-a838-1f8abb4b1e27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Onyinyechi Nwakanma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.
![Photo of Kimberly Bernard Wingard - Solid Foundation Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ef6b93-e91f-4553-91da-2764c46e22ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Meet Ms. Kimberly PMHNP-BC, your dedicated provider on the path to mental wellness. With a passion for healing and a wealth of experience, I bring warmth, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and uncover the strength within you. Trust in our journey toward healing and growth.
Meet Ms. Kimberly PMHNP-BC, your dedicated provider on the path to mental wellness. With a passion for healing and a wealth of experience, I bring warmth, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and uncover the strength within you. Trust in our journey toward healing and growth.
![Photo of Kelly Martinez, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf7dbcc4-1a96-41d0-b5ae-15fc68e2b4b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING ONLINE NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENTS!!! Every person has a story and it is my goal to help you achieve a better you. I believe my compassion and empathy shines through in my practice. I believe in equal participation from both myself and my clients. Every patient should have a voice in their treatment plan. I will work with you to come up with a treatment that not only helps you but makes you feel comfortable with it as well. My scope of practice includes the promotion of mental health along with the diagnosis and management of behavioral matters.
ACCEPTING ONLINE NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENTS!!! Every person has a story and it is my goal to help you achieve a better you. I believe my compassion and empathy shines through in my practice. I believe in equal participation from both myself and my clients. Every patient should have a voice in their treatment plan. I will work with you to come up with a treatment that not only helps you but makes you feel comfortable with it as well. My scope of practice includes the promotion of mental health along with the diagnosis and management of behavioral matters.
![Photo of Martha Lino, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f5c01e2-b0fb-46da-945f-6b059b2bab55/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I specialize in treating mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and substance abuse. I possess a special interest in assisting immigrant populations and a strong expertise in providing psychiatric mental health care in emergency settings.
I’m an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I specialize in treating mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and substance abuse. I possess a special interest in assisting immigrant populations and a strong expertise in providing psychiatric mental health care in emergency settings.
![Photo of Idalia Viard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/725d9624-1fce-453c-9431-2cfdbc2c8e85/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be incredibly challenging. Sometimes we need a little extra help finding our way back to ourselves. It is my life's passion to offer warm and compassionate guidance to clients seeking support for mental health and psychiatric needs. My approach is rooted in person-centered care by deeply understanding each person's unique experiences. I am committed to treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being, not just their symptoms. If you’re struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, or OCD reach out today to see if you could benefit from a clinician that offers both medication and therapy.
Life can be incredibly challenging. Sometimes we need a little extra help finding our way back to ourselves. It is my life's passion to offer warm and compassionate guidance to clients seeking support for mental health and psychiatric needs. My approach is rooted in person-centered care by deeply understanding each person's unique experiences. I am committed to treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being, not just their symptoms. If you’re struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, or OCD reach out today to see if you could benefit from a clinician that offers both medication and therapy.
![Photo of Taiwo Elemuren - Livewell Mental Health , PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eba87adc-4343-4c05-9716-4b5cdcab5d4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Livewell Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581 (Online Only)
Taiwo Elemuren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner since 2015 and has extensive knowledge, and experience, in psychiatry. She provides patient-centered psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Her goal is to continually provide unbiased and all-inclusive care to individuals regardless of race, gender, and sexual orientation.
Taiwo Elemuren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner since 2015 and has extensive knowledge, and experience, in psychiatry. She provides patient-centered psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Her goal is to continually provide unbiased and all-inclusive care to individuals regardless of race, gender, and sexual orientation.
![Photo of Ayesha Rashid, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/518e7aca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ayesha Rashid, MD is a licensed Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She received her training in Adult Psychiatry at State University of New York, Upstate University Hospital at Syracuse, NY where she went on to complete her fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She worked in the capacity of Attending Physician, Psychiatry at Syracuse Veterans Hospital before moving to Houston.
Dr. Ayesha Rashid, MD is a licensed Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She received her training in Adult Psychiatry at State University of New York, Upstate University Hospital at Syracuse, NY where she went on to complete her fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She worked in the capacity of Attending Physician, Psychiatry at Syracuse Veterans Hospital before moving to Houston.
![Photo of Shakil Siddiqui, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5837e1b-6cec-4c3a-8e6c-f7169688e3b6/1/320x400.png)
Shakil Siddiqui, M.D. is a highly rated psychiatrist and a proud member of Lifestance Health PLLC team in Houston, Texas. Dr. Siddiqui has more than 25 years of experience as psychiatrist. He has experience treating multiple different psychiatric illnesses including Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, PSTD, etc. For several years, Dr. Siddiqui worked at Rusk Hospital in Rusk, Texas where he treated a large number of acutely ill and newly admitted psychiatric patients in the psychiatric unit.
Shakil Siddiqui, M.D. is a highly rated psychiatrist and a proud member of Lifestance Health PLLC team in Houston, Texas. Dr. Siddiqui has more than 25 years of experience as psychiatrist. He has experience treating multiple different psychiatric illnesses including Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, PSTD, etc. For several years, Dr. Siddiqui worked at Rusk Hospital in Rusk, Texas where he treated a large number of acutely ill and newly admitted psychiatric patients in the psychiatric unit.
![Photo of Jacquelin Joffray, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f37804c-4f0a-4272-8fd8-3c7a1c70e07a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacquelin Joffray is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys providing mental health care, for a variety of mental health conditions. She began her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, graduating with her master's degree from the University of South Alabama. But in realizing she wanted to do more, she later attended Frontier Nursing University, and obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate certificate, across the lifespan. Jacquelin takes pride in helping to address the mental health stigma and shame in seeking care.
Jacquelin Joffray is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys providing mental health care, for a variety of mental health conditions. She began her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, graduating with her master's degree from the University of South Alabama. But in realizing she wanted to do more, she later attended Frontier Nursing University, and obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate certificate, across the lifespan. Jacquelin takes pride in helping to address the mental health stigma and shame in seeking care.
![Photo of Manuel Guillen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/778c9eea-7b19-4a74-b3c0-948e3ca62b53/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have always been interested in medicine along with the humanities, with psychiatry serving as a blend of both. Psychiatry has allowed me to consistently be involved with the human condition and work in an area of huge need in medicine. I became a psychiatrist in order to serve society and help those struggling with mental and behavioral disorders.
I have always been interested in medicine along with the humanities, with psychiatry serving as a blend of both. Psychiatry has allowed me to consistently be involved with the human condition and work in an area of huge need in medicine. I became a psychiatrist in order to serve society and help those struggling with mental and behavioral disorders.
![Photo of Darren Fred, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0da85862-d60c-4356-aa82-bbfd20e0a9df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darren Fred is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University, graduating summa cum laude, and a medical degree from University of Texas Medical School at Houston (McGovern). He completed his Residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock serving as Chief Resident in years 3 and 4. Darren values psychoeducation above all else. Darren believes in the importance of educating his patients about their conditions and potential treatments to demystify mental health issues and help them make informed decisions about their care.
Darren Fred is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University, graduating summa cum laude, and a medical degree from University of Texas Medical School at Houston (McGovern). He completed his Residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock serving as Chief Resident in years 3 and 4. Darren values psychoeducation above all else. Darren believes in the importance of educating his patients about their conditions and potential treatments to demystify mental health issues and help them make informed decisions about their care.
![Photo of Fadekemi Olude, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e58921f-9b10-49da-baed-9502c4e80a3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581 (Online Only)
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
![Photo of Caroline Lam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18996fa6-dbf1-4413-84dc-31ca1b725f2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
![Photo of Mehreen Ghanchi, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69481a9b-41f0-4e3f-b1c0-ff19e12ff80c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mehreen Ghanchi is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Mehreen's heart and passion is not only in caring for others but assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. Mehreen's experience includes several years of working in a psychiatric hospital serving children, adolescent and adult population.
Mehreen Ghanchi is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Mehreen's heart and passion is not only in caring for others but assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. Mehreen's experience includes several years of working in a psychiatric hospital serving children, adolescent and adult population.
![Photo of Chantelle Shaw, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d89b0f7-9745-4170-947d-5e80079c46c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chantelle Shaw is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She offers a comprehensive range of support and expertise to her clients. With a deep cultural understanding, Dr. Shaw brings sensitivity and insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by children and adolescents, considering cultural, social, and familial factors impacting mental health. She provides tailored treatment approaches that are culturally competent and relevant, respecting her clients’ cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values. Dr.
Dr. Chantelle Shaw is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She offers a comprehensive range of support and expertise to her clients. With a deep cultural understanding, Dr. Shaw brings sensitivity and insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by children and adolescents, considering cultural, social, and familial factors impacting mental health. She provides tailored treatment approaches that are culturally competent and relevant, respecting her clients’ cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values. Dr.
![Photo of Dr. Bobbi Porche - Mindful Health Solutions - Bobbi Porche, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f71e793-4248-415b-bf66-2555fd3ededd/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal patient is a person that is willing to work together to tackle their mental health issues. My ideal patient is honest and forthcoming with what they think is working or not working with their treatment plan. I enjoy working with patients who are looking to incorporate medication treatment with other therapeutic options such as psychotherapy, lifestyle change, exercise, and mindfulness-based approaches. I joined Mindful Health Solutions due to the “patient-first” company mentality.
My ideal patient is a person that is willing to work together to tackle their mental health issues. My ideal patient is honest and forthcoming with what they think is working or not working with their treatment plan. I enjoy working with patients who are looking to incorporate medication treatment with other therapeutic options such as psychotherapy, lifestyle change, exercise, and mindfulness-based approaches. I joined Mindful Health Solutions due to the “patient-first” company mentality.
![Photo of Feilcitas Okwara, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a255398b-e2a3-4116-85c4-92a74c5efd1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
![Photo of Tonika LaFlora - Minds of Gold, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/550dcf31-7499-49bb-b32d-2d1f28ea928b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Minds of Gold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581 (Online Only)
I was driven by a profound dedication to mental health, I've spent years nurturing hope, facilitating healing, and fostering recovery. With a diverse background encompassing 15 years as a Registered Nurse specializing in mental health, complemented by four years as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of experience and empathy to my practice.
I was driven by a profound dedication to mental health, I've spent years nurturing hope, facilitating healing, and fostering recovery. With a diverse background encompassing 15 years as a Registered Nurse specializing in mental health, complemented by four years as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of experience and empathy to my practice.
![Photo of Ben Bernard Osevwe - Solid Foundation Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22a78b8f-30fe-4556-8cce-73e25e3e5d1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Hello! I'm Ed Osevwe, your dedicated partner in achieving optimal mental health. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I've committed my professional life to assisting individuals like yourself in discovering inner peace and fulfillment. Whether you're contending with the challenges of anxiety, experiencing periods of sadness, or facing difficulties with concentration, I am here to support you every step of the way on your path to well-being. I am committed to fostering a secure and empathetic environment where you can authentically express yourself without fear of judgment.
Hello! I'm Ed Osevwe, your dedicated partner in achieving optimal mental health. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I've committed my professional life to assisting individuals like yourself in discovering inner peace and fulfillment. Whether you're contending with the challenges of anxiety, experiencing periods of sadness, or facing difficulties with concentration, I am here to support you every step of the way on your path to well-being. I am committed to fostering a secure and empathetic environment where you can authentically express yourself without fear of judgment.
See more therapy options for 77581
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 77581
20+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in 77581 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Medication Management |
60% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 77581 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 77581?
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.