Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
![Photo of Michelle Monson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f432b20-68f2-40d4-b1b5-8cc4b25c6bc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Monson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205 (Online Only)
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, ADHD, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance.
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, ADHD, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance.
![Photo of Dr. Kristin P Solimani, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/740f36fb-6523-4428-b433-f715e670c742/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kristin P Solimani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Dealing with mental illness and addiction can be extremely difficult and even more challenging finding consistent mental health care. When it comes to treating mental illness and addiction, there is no one size fits all treatment method. With that in mind, City Psychiatry seeks to personalize treatment to the patient’s mental and physical health needs. At City Psychiatry we understand a comprehensive diagnosis and flexible treatment plan are important to successful recovery
Dealing with mental illness and addiction can be extremely difficult and even more challenging finding consistent mental health care. When it comes to treating mental illness and addiction, there is no one size fits all treatment method. With that in mind, City Psychiatry seeks to personalize treatment to the patient’s mental and physical health needs. At City Psychiatry we understand a comprehensive diagnosis and flexible treatment plan are important to successful recovery
![Photo of Dr. Oluwole Popoola, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eaa437f-8f03-4ee8-855f-479bbeeb3d2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I am currently accepting NEW patients with wait times of 1-5 DAYS . If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use or any other mental health issue, and you are looking for an empathic professional who can understand and meet you where you are, then reach out to me. I will conduct a detailed and unrushed evaluation that focuses on understanding your symptoms. Then, you and I will create a treatment plan that is unique and focused on you in order to successfully get you from where you are to where you want to be.
I am board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I am currently accepting NEW patients with wait times of 1-5 DAYS . If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use or any other mental health issue, and you are looking for an empathic professional who can understand and meet you where you are, then reach out to me. I will conduct a detailed and unrushed evaluation that focuses on understanding your symptoms. Then, you and I will create a treatment plan that is unique and focused on you in order to successfully get you from where you are to where you want to be.
![Photo of Wolfgang Rosenfeldt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a05f31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kayode Oluwayomi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e1db122-f5d6-4edc-8b25-065faf9eb35c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayode Oluwayomi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Kayode Oluwayomi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). He has over 11 years of nursing experience. Kayode works with diverse clients with different cultural backgrounds and with different mental health problems such as alcohol abuse, drug abuse, major depressive disorder with or without psychosis, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorder, and more.
Kayode Oluwayomi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). He has over 11 years of nursing experience. Kayode works with diverse clients with different cultural backgrounds and with different mental health problems such as alcohol abuse, drug abuse, major depressive disorder with or without psychosis, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorder, and more.
![Photo of Brian C Forsythe - Dallas Psychiatry & TMS Center, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4297fe9c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Brian Forsythe and I believe in a whole-person approach to patient care. It is my belief that therapy, medication, diet, exercise, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person's mental and over-all health. I also offer cutting edge treatments like TMS Therapy and Psychotropic DNA testing. My office, the Dallas Psychiatry and TMS Center, is centrally located in the Mockingbird Station Shops/Park Cities/SMU/Highland Park area and is convenient to downtown Dallas.
My name is Dr. Brian Forsythe and I believe in a whole-person approach to patient care. It is my belief that therapy, medication, diet, exercise, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person's mental and over-all health. I also offer cutting edge treatments like TMS Therapy and Psychotropic DNA testing. My office, the Dallas Psychiatry and TMS Center, is centrally located in the Mockingbird Station Shops/Park Cities/SMU/Highland Park area and is convenient to downtown Dallas.
![Photo of Richard Brown - In Focus Mental Health PLLC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dae5d7a-31ac-448b-856d-acdb4dd3f21e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
With my experience as clinician and teacher at the internationally-recognized Menninger Clinic and additional training in psychotherapy, I have special expertise in working with adults who are struggling to change paralyzing, painful or self-defeating patterns of experience, including depression, anxiety, relationship or work problems, low self-esteem and failure to achieve potential. If you prefer psychotherapy with minimal use of medications or if you have complex problems and have tried other treatments without getting well, I may be a good fit for you.
With my experience as clinician and teacher at the internationally-recognized Menninger Clinic and additional training in psychotherapy, I have special expertise in working with adults who are struggling to change paralyzing, painful or self-defeating patterns of experience, including depression, anxiety, relationship or work problems, low self-esteem and failure to achieve potential. If you prefer psychotherapy with minimal use of medications or if you have complex problems and have tried other treatments without getting well, I may be a good fit for you.
![Photo of Lynda Parker - Dr Lynda Parker- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a606a263-c3aa-4d02-b5eb-c9200c627b45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
![Photo of Acara Nesbeth - Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS), MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9f99e16-fc9a-4013-9d9f-a2a56760a870/2/320x400.jpeg)
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. Acara 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. Visit out 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. Acara 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. Visit out website: www.mbspsych.org
![Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8113fc3c-0d08-4d12-ab3e-9e27a2faa3a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
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![Photo of Tonika LaFlora, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b1121d8-5d6b-4172-bc85-41f2bf1be7e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tonika LaFlora is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. Tonika brings a wealth of experience and empathy to hir practice. Certified in treating ADHD, Tonika specializes in Adult ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression, blending medication management with psychotherapy to guide hir clients towards holistic wellbeing. Outside of work, Tonika enjoys spending time with family, traveling, shopping, and just relaxing at home watching TV.
Tonika LaFlora is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. Tonika brings a wealth of experience and empathy to hir practice. Certified in treating ADHD, Tonika specializes in Adult ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression, blending medication management with psychotherapy to guide hir clients towards holistic wellbeing. Outside of work, Tonika enjoys spending time with family, traveling, shopping, and just relaxing at home watching TV.
![Photo of Idowu Awosere, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3db4d4-ebc6-4fa2-a2ac-fe2590ee98d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Aimee Theresa Dunnam, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6cb86a9-6306-4826-a0a9-421716f1432f/3/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Kristen Dale, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3a93075-f584-449f-b509-17ba6696689c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Dale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kristen Dale. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and am passionate about helping you achieve mental wellness with a holistic approach. I attended University of Texas Medical Branch for my Bachelor’s in Science of Nursing, and University of Texas Health and Science Center-Houston for my M.S. Nursing, graduating with honors.
Hi, I'm Kristen Dale. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and am passionate about helping you achieve mental wellness with a holistic approach. I attended University of Texas Medical Branch for my Bachelor’s in Science of Nursing, and University of Texas Health and Science Center-Houston for my M.S. Nursing, graduating with honors.
![Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4b17add-3ab1-46a4-ad64-e12f49296e67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
![Photo of Preston Wiles, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ee5d43d-4ae9-4b92-835b-518b85759997/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He now runs the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He was recently named Assistant Dean for Student and Resident Mental Health and Wellness at UT Southwestern. He is a qualified mindfulness teacher through Jon Kabat Zinn's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program at UMass Medical Cntr
Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He now runs the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He was recently named Assistant Dean for Student and Resident Mental Health and Wellness at UT Southwestern. He is a qualified mindfulness teacher through Jon Kabat Zinn's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program at UMass Medical Cntr
![Photo of Antonio Roman, MD, PA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dcd0248-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Antonio Roman an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist has served the Dallas, Texas community since 1998. Dr. Roman's scope of practice includes Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Alzheimer's Disease and Psychiatric Complications of Dementia. Dr. Roman's treatment modality includes psychotropic medication and supportive psychotherapy. Dr. Roman's therapeutic style combines compassion, encouragement and humor.
Dr. Antonio Roman an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist has served the Dallas, Texas community since 1998. Dr. Roman's scope of practice includes Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Alzheimer's Disease and Psychiatric Complications of Dementia. Dr. Roman's treatment modality includes psychotropic medication and supportive psychotherapy. Dr. Roman's therapeutic style combines compassion, encouragement and humor.
![Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29a5d518-e7d6-48ed-8a59-071ee7863304/1/320x400.jpeg)
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
![Photo of Appolonia Chineme, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cefeda73-e0d8-44b0-87d3-1694ce8cb377/1/320x400.jpeg)
Appolonia Chineme
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Appolonia Chineme is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for holistic patient care. Appolonia has worked as a Registered nurse in many hospital and outpatient settings including, home health, psychiatric hospital setting, Medical surgical nursing, ICU nursing and inpatient nurse case manager in the Tarrant County level one trauma hospital system. Appolonia spent over 10 years as a bedside Registered Nurse prior to graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Texas El Paso in 2015 with focus in Family Practice.
Appolonia Chineme is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for holistic patient care. Appolonia has worked as a Registered nurse in many hospital and outpatient settings including, home health, psychiatric hospital setting, Medical surgical nursing, ICU nursing and inpatient nurse case manager in the Tarrant County level one trauma hospital system. Appolonia spent over 10 years as a bedside Registered Nurse prior to graduating with a master’s degree from the University of Texas El Paso in 2015 with focus in Family Practice.
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
400+
Average cost per session
$185
Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | 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
73% | Female | |
27% | 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.