Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
Maribeth Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected and schedule with Maribeth, please use the "my website" button! Maribeth Jenkins is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has been in the nursing field for over 20 years. Maribeth has completed degrees in Licensed Vocational Nursing, Registered Nursing, and has both a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and a Masters Degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected and schedule with Maribeth, please use the "my website" button! Maribeth Jenkins is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has been in the nursing field for over 20 years. Maribeth has completed degrees in Licensed Vocational Nursing, Registered Nursing, and has both a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and a Masters Degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
LinMed Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
LaTasha Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you someone who has been struggling to maintain your mental health? Is sadness, worry, or poor sleep preventing you from living life to the fullest? Are you troubled with the behaviors of your child? Then Amiable Psychiatric Solutions (APS) is here for you! We trust that optimum psychiatric care starts by listening to and hearing a patient’s history, then understanding their goals for treatment. We also believe that mental health treatment and enhancing a patient’s well-being happens by assessing patients independently and personalizing care to meet their individual goals and needs.
Are you someone who has been struggling to maintain your mental health? Is sadness, worry, or poor sleep preventing you from living life to the fullest? Are you troubled with the behaviors of your child? Then Amiable Psychiatric Solutions (APS) is here for you! We trust that optimum psychiatric care starts by listening to and hearing a patient’s history, then understanding their goals for treatment. We also believe that mental health treatment and enhancing a patient’s well-being happens by assessing patients independently and personalizing care to meet their individual goals and needs.
A Therapized Life (ATL)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with the typical psychiatric healthcare system? Do you often feel like your provider is simply prescribing medications without listening to your concerns? If that has been your experience, then Melinda is the provider for you!
Are you frustrated with the typical psychiatric healthcare system? Do you often feel like your provider is simply prescribing medications without listening to your concerns? If that has been your experience, then Melinda is the provider for you!
Jennifer Kent Autry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75235 (Online Only)
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
Deborah Frempong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm a dual-certified Nurse practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas. I received my post-master's degree from Walden University. I have been practicing as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner for over six years, managing both chronic conditions and some psychiatric conditions.
Hello, I'm a dual-certified Nurse practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Texas. I received my post-master's degree from Walden University. I have been practicing as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner for over six years, managing both chronic conditions and some psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Randall McIntyre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Dr. Randal McIntyre has been practicing Adult Psychiatry for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA - Biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School - Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residence n General and Child Psychiatry at UTHCSC-Houston. He is Boarded Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Dr. Randal McIntyre has been practicing Adult Psychiatry for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA - Biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School - Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residence n General and Child Psychiatry at UTHCSC-Houston. He is Boarded Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
At Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc our vision is to treat patients with compassion and respect while providing an individualized treatment plans that meets patient’s outcome. We understand the challenges of daily life event and promote the concept of balanced mindset for patients to see actual results of treatment recommendations. Our team consist of a Psychiatrist, Texas Board and Arizona Board of Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with ANCC certification. We provide appointments and psychiatry services in person or via secured and HIPPA compliant video conference platform.
At Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc our vision is to treat patients with compassion and respect while providing an individualized treatment plans that meets patient’s outcome. We understand the challenges of daily life event and promote the concept of balanced mindset for patients to see actual results of treatment recommendations. Our team consist of a Psychiatrist, Texas Board and Arizona Board of Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with ANCC certification. We provide appointments and psychiatry services in person or via secured and HIPPA compliant video conference platform.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Ijeoma Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
My name is Ijeoma Osuji, I live in Texas. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that has been in practice for four years. As a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2019, I have devoted my career to improving the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
My name is Ijeoma Osuji, I live in Texas. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that has been in practice for four years. As a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2019, I have devoted my career to improving the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
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As a psychiatry physician based in Texas, my mission at JonesWay Psychiatry is to provide compassionate care that promotes mental wellness and provides insight and education to all who need it. I want to create a safe space for healing and growth. I am dedicated to guiding you on your journey to emotional well-being. Together, we can empower you to navigate life's challenges and key into your given strengths. Your mental wellness and wholeness are my priority, and I want to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this transformative process together.
As a psychiatry physician based in Texas, my mission at JonesWay Psychiatry is to provide compassionate care that promotes mental wellness and provides insight and education to all who need it. I want to create a safe space for healing and growth. I am dedicated to guiding you on your journey to emotional well-being. Together, we can empower you to navigate life's challenges and key into your given strengths. Your mental wellness and wholeness are my priority, and I want to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this transformative process together.
Aimee Theresa Dunnam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes just getting through the day can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. Life circumstances can feel as though it's taken hold and you're unable to get free, to take the necessary steps to move forward, but it doesn't have to be.
Sometimes just getting through the day can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. Life circumstances can feel as though it's taken hold and you're unable to get free, to take the necessary steps to move forward, but it doesn't have to be.
Welcome to Apollo Psychiatry! Wait time < 2 weeks. The doctor-patient relationship takes time, and it is the most important aspect of my practice. At Apollo Psychiatry, patients are treated as whole beings, inviting and honoring the full spectrum of emotions that make them uniquely human. You will be offered a customized and collaborative approach to treatment and a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. I see patients aged 18-70 in both Texas and Colorado, who can pay privately or use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement. Services are delivered over a HIPAA secure Zoom platform.
Welcome to Apollo Psychiatry! Wait time < 2 weeks. The doctor-patient relationship takes time, and it is the most important aspect of my practice. At Apollo Psychiatry, patients are treated as whole beings, inviting and honoring the full spectrum of emotions that make them uniquely human. You will be offered a customized and collaborative approach to treatment and a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. I see patients aged 18-70 in both Texas and Colorado, who can pay privately or use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement. Services are delivered over a HIPAA secure Zoom platform.
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75228
Now accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send us email directly through our website: www.mbspsych.org.
Now accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send us email directly through our website: www.mbspsych.org.
Kristen Dale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
Healing light psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Are you sometimes afraid in a meeting and it feels like you are going to die or that everyone is looking at you or are you or a loved one struggling with a mental health condition? At Healing light psychiatry, we provide expert psychiatric care to help you navigate life's challenges .Your Path to Wellness Starts Here. Don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Take the first step towards better mental health by booking your psychiatric consultation today. Contact us at P: 877-358-5807 or visit www.healinglightpsch.com to schedule your appointment. Let us be your partner in achieving a healthier, happier life.
Are you sometimes afraid in a meeting and it feels like you are going to die or that everyone is looking at you or are you or a loved one struggling with a mental health condition? At Healing light psychiatry, we provide expert psychiatric care to help you navigate life's challenges .Your Path to Wellness Starts Here. Don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Take the first step towards better mental health by booking your psychiatric consultation today. Contact us at P: 877-358-5807 or visit www.healinglightpsch.com to schedule your appointment. Let us be your partner in achieving a healthier, happier life.
Idowu Awosere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243 (Online Only)
Are you ready to break free from the chains of anxiety and depression that have been holding you back? Are you tired of receiving those troubling calls from school about your child's behavior? I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I'm here to assure you that there is hope, and you don't have to face these struggles alone. My name is Idowu Awosere. I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and my passion lies in helping individuals and families like yours navigate the ups and downs of life, providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. In our time together.
Are you ready to break free from the chains of anxiety and depression that have been holding you back? Are you tired of receiving those troubling calls from school about your child's behavior? I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I'm here to assure you that there is hope, and you don't have to face these struggles alone. My name is Idowu Awosere. I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and my passion lies in helping individuals and families like yours navigate the ups and downs of life, providing compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. In our time together.
Yvonne Tamufor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75247 (Online Only)
As a PMHNP, I am deeply committed to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. My approach is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care to foster healing and growth. I prioritize creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their challenges and strengths. What sets me apart is my dedication to cultural competence and personalized treatment plans. I recognize the diverse backgrounds and experiences of my clients, and I tailor my care to meet their specific needs, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and empowered.
As a PMHNP, I am deeply committed to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. My approach is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care to foster healing and growth. I prioritize creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their challenges and strengths. What sets me apart is my dedication to cultural competence and personalized treatment plans. I recognize the diverse backgrounds and experiences of my clients, and I tailor my care to meet their specific needs, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and empowered.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
400+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas?
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.