Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
![Photo of Karla Rivera - Blue Skyes Health Psychiatry Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/539772cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We thrive on supporting our pediatric community and their families with an integrative care for children and their behavioral health. Specializing in treating conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder and other behavior problems. We understand that when a child in the family is struggling the whole family struggles. We provide medication management for our patients and an open communication with the parents because we believe good communication with our patients makes for better treatment outcomes.
We thrive on supporting our pediatric community and their families with an integrative care for children and their behavioral health. Specializing in treating conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder and other behavior problems. We understand that when a child in the family is struggling the whole family struggles. We provide medication management for our patients and an open communication with the parents because we believe good communication with our patients makes for better treatment outcomes.
![Photo of Lyudmila Hartt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77cd8efa-7a40-492a-a5db-b8d1395f6bf4/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for an experienced, approachable and caring psychiatrist, please reach out. I will listen closely to your concerns and welcome your questions and suggestions. I will clearly explain the pros and cons of the medications and other treatments for your condition. Together, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and preferences.
If you are looking for an experienced, approachable and caring psychiatrist, please reach out. I will listen closely to your concerns and welcome your questions and suggestions. I will clearly explain the pros and cons of the medications and other treatments for your condition. Together, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and preferences.
![Photo of Sarah Jirinzu - Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health, MSN, PMHNP, CC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d925c8f0-58f8-4089-bc04-a395d06b09cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, CC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota and Washington State. I work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota and Washington State. I work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
![Photo of Dana Ebeling, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cba6116-19ae-4c0b-a557-7761540cb089/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Ebeling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258 (Online Only)
Life is a journey that requires resiliency. I have always had a passion for helping others. In that pursuit, I graduated with a BS in nutrition from WVU (1986). I went on to become a registered nurse (1993 SU). Now I am board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (2013) as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (2021). As a nurse/NP for over 25 years, I have provided holistic care to patients in a variety of settings from ICU, acute rehabilitation settings, long-term care, home health and telemedicine services.
Life is a journey that requires resiliency. I have always had a passion for helping others. In that pursuit, I graduated with a BS in nutrition from WVU (1986). I went on to become a registered nurse (1993 SU). Now I am board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (2013) as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (2021). As a nurse/NP for over 25 years, I have provided holistic care to patients in a variety of settings from ICU, acute rehabilitation settings, long-term care, home health and telemedicine services.
![Photo of Julia C Jackson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed25e08-a5bf-49e5-8f4a-cbc67aaf7e1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with 23 years of experience treating kids and teens struggling with a variety of childhood disorders of thinking, feeling, & behavior. As a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel with 25 years of service I've had the opportunity to evaluate and treat children & teens from many parts of the country & world. One thing that remains true is that patients want to be heard and understood, regardless of age. I find this to be one of the most rewarding & privileged aspects of psychiatry. It is healing in many ways in and of itself, though requires time. This is why I chose private practice.
I am a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with 23 years of experience treating kids and teens struggling with a variety of childhood disorders of thinking, feeling, & behavior. As a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel with 25 years of service I've had the opportunity to evaluate and treat children & teens from many parts of the country & world. One thing that remains true is that patients want to be heard and understood, regardless of age. I find this to be one of the most rewarding & privileged aspects of psychiatry. It is healing in many ways in and of itself, though requires time. This is why I chose private practice.
![Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/018eea52-6132-44c9-8414-b8ba1699d965/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204
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 Delia Sanchez Patino, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afb66cea-839f-474a-99dc-47071c98b751/2/320x400.jpeg)
Delia Sanchez Patino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
![Photo of Armand Ntchana, NP, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf4b136-2939-4442-b876-82999e3b1af6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. With 24/7 Direct Access For Established Patients.
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. With 24/7 Direct Access For Established Patients.
![Photo of Angelica Valle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0157bab-8b19-470b-8759-f8a1a4560852/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angelica Valle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing outpatient modeled virtual care for adult clients in Texas. I earned my master of science in nursing (MS) degree from UT Health San Antonio, and am the founder and owner of Floriss Wellness PLLC - Virtual Mental Healthcare of Texas Telehealth Clinic. Our clinic provides comprehensive treatment for all psychiatric conditions, ensuring personalized care for each client. Our expertise covers a wide range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), among others.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing outpatient modeled virtual care for adult clients in Texas. I earned my master of science in nursing (MS) degree from UT Health San Antonio, and am the founder and owner of Floriss Wellness PLLC - Virtual Mental Healthcare of Texas Telehealth Clinic. Our clinic provides comprehensive treatment for all psychiatric conditions, ensuring personalized care for each client. Our expertise covers a wide range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), among others.
![Photo of Lorraine Garcia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2acee12b-4769-42dc-ac99-4c141b353a26/1/320x400.jpeg)
The most important attribute that I look for in my clients is trust. Trusting my approach at treating patients who suffer from depression due to chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and other mood disorders. My unique approach at treating patients is through medication management, Spravato, and Ketamine treatments using evidence-base research. Provider-patient trust allows my patients to open up and be honest without judgement, making it easier for me as your provider to administer therapeutic quality care and relationships. Every patient has unique needs and I want to help my patient live their best quality of life.
The most important attribute that I look for in my clients is trust. Trusting my approach at treating patients who suffer from depression due to chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and other mood disorders. My unique approach at treating patients is through medication management, Spravato, and Ketamine treatments using evidence-base research. Provider-patient trust allows my patients to open up and be honest without judgement, making it easier for me as your provider to administer therapeutic quality care and relationships. Every patient has unique needs and I want to help my patient live their best quality of life.
![Photo of Rose Garcia, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcf7c6ea-e1d3-4a65-b59f-991f6ab2c124/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hola! Si entiendo Espanol. Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. My name is Roseann Garcia, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to help stop mental health stigma, collaborate with you and your family, and support you every step of the way.
Hola! Si entiendo Espanol. Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. My name is Roseann Garcia, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to help stop mental health stigma, collaborate with you and your family, and support you every step of the way.
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Perfection Vista Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Grace, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I want to help my patients achieve their goals, and I believe mental wellness is something we can achieve together. I'm here to collaborate to create an attainable care plan that meets your unique needs. I'd love to chat with you and would be honored to help you on your journey. I have openings on Fridays, weekends, and some evenings, and I can usually see you within a week. Let us work together towards better mental health and more fulfilling life.
Hello, I am Grace, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I want to help my patients achieve their goals, and I believe mental wellness is something we can achieve together. I'm here to collaborate to create an attainable care plan that meets your unique needs. I'd love to chat with you and would be honored to help you on your journey. I have openings on Fridays, weekends, and some evenings, and I can usually see you within a week. Let us work together towards better mental health and more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Ugochi Azubuike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e6a61e-02f8-48fd-ae49-a233f57ab30a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugochi Azubuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78215 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
![Photo of Melissa Deuter - Melissa Deuter, MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbccd1f2-259f-48a1-bd4e-daa6d3b83173/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Deuter, MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca6c72ab-199a-4c80-9123-e5fcd81a7efc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204 (Online Only)
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
![Photo of John T Pichot, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72147fec-01d2-4587-af87-ed28ebcb8366/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
![Photo of Dr. Lilian Davidson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d658f0df-2f8f-4a64-bdc2-2b81c4e6de61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lilian Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78241 (Online Only)
Dr. Lilian Davidson is dedicated to excellence in psychiatric practice, and she offers a wide array of diagnostic, psychotherapy, medication, and consultation services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. She has effectively integrated the most recent advances in psychiatry with time-tested treatment approaches. We offer you the expertise you expect from a leading clinical practice in a supportive, nurturing, and therapeutic environment. Her practice experience includes Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Personality Disorders.
Dr. Lilian Davidson is dedicated to excellence in psychiatric practice, and she offers a wide array of diagnostic, psychotherapy, medication, and consultation services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. She has effectively integrated the most recent advances in psychiatry with time-tested treatment approaches. We offer you the expertise you expect from a leading clinical practice in a supportive, nurturing, and therapeutic environment. Her practice experience includes Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Personality Disorders.
![Photo of Karen Inzurriaga, DNP, ARN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85a5bf20-4374-49c9-ae83-d3ad0663cd2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Inzurriaga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217 (Online Only)
Karen (often referred to by her trusting patients as Dr. I) is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has years of nursing experience in a variety of settings in Behavioral health.
Karen (often referred to by her trusting patients as Dr. I) is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has years of nursing experience in a variety of settings in Behavioral health.
![Photo of Ijeoma Ononenyi, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cea3511b-78b8-42a2-9aae-730b66b11028/2/320x400.png)
Ijeoma Ononenyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78223 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
![Photo of Farheen Makani - Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2b5bd06-1c49-4714-b81d-fddd00ed3bef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aura Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. SAME Day/ Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. SAME Day/ Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
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Number of Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
200+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Medication Management |
73% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Aetna |
85% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Antonio?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.