Psychiatrists in Plano, TX
![Photo of Drew Edward Murray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7488614c-8fcf-47a1-b269-c8f44973de6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
![Photo of Mary Francis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/102d0ca1-b928-495e-b055-188af528b718/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
![Photo of Kourtney Ruff, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/894f5aa7-355e-4aa9-aa3f-1fec6d86331c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a physician assistant and have been providing mental health services for 1 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see individuals and I address autism spectrum disorder, career transitions, eating disorders, insomnia, and relationship counseling.
I am a physician assistant and have been providing mental health services for 1 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see individuals and I address autism spectrum disorder, career transitions, eating disorders, insomnia, and relationship counseling.
![Photo of Satish Narayan, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83a01a5a-ccd1-46e5-98ce-15aafd8326da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Satish D. Narayan is a physician with 18 years of experience providing psychiatric services. He currently holds a position as the Medical Director of the Partial Hospitalization Program at Carrollton Springs and has been in private practice since 2008. He received his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College in 1990. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Temple University Hospital in 1998 and became certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2000. He has a professional membership with the Texas Medical Association.
Dr. Satish D. Narayan is a physician with 18 years of experience providing psychiatric services. He currently holds a position as the Medical Director of the Partial Hospitalization Program at Carrollton Springs and has been in private practice since 2008. He received his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College in 1990. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Temple University Hospital in 1998 and became certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2000. He has a professional membership with the Texas Medical Association.
![Photo of Norman Sowell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9541685d-0ef4-4a00-ab33-8fdd64a00524/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is the one who reaches out when they need help. If you make that first step, I know that you are motivated! I will work tirelessly to help you meet your mental health goals. The relationship between an individual and their psychiatric provider should be a collaborative one. I always strive to seek feedback from clients and to provide alternatives & options for care. Medication management is my primary focus, so I would love to work alongside your therapist or I could help you to find one.
My ideal client is the one who reaches out when they need help. If you make that first step, I know that you are motivated! I will work tirelessly to help you meet your mental health goals. The relationship between an individual and their psychiatric provider should be a collaborative one. I always strive to seek feedback from clients and to provide alternatives & options for care. Medication management is my primary focus, so I would love to work alongside your therapist or I could help you to find one.
![Photo of Michael Lutter, MD/PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b813e64-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with late adolescent and adult patients struggling with eating disorder, depression, and anxiety. My approach is to work with patients and their families to craft individual treatment plans that incorporate all members of the treatment team including psychotherapy, medical nutrition therapy, and proper medical care.
I work with late adolescent and adult patients struggling with eating disorder, depression, and anxiety. My approach is to work with patients and their families to craft individual treatment plans that incorporate all members of the treatment team including psychotherapy, medical nutrition therapy, and proper medical care.
![Photo of Thanh Phan, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0970513-9000-4a01-8da8-4972eb43fc60/2/320x400.png)
I am specialized in a wide range of mental health disorders including: depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, sleep-wake disorders, bipolar-related disorders, schizophrenia spectrum, and psychotic disorders. I also set up my practice to serve Vietnamese clients who are in need of a Vietnamese spoken mental health provider.
I am specialized in a wide range of mental health disorders including: depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, sleep-wake disorders, bipolar-related disorders, schizophrenia spectrum, and psychotic disorders. I also set up my practice to serve Vietnamese clients who are in need of a Vietnamese spoken mental health provider.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e290768a-60f7-4f1c-85ba-f69ba952d64d/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? 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.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? 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.
![Photo of Dr. Pradeep Kumar - Plano Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae360322-71db-44e3-bce5-981bf41c192c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Double Board Certified psychiatrist in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I try achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I have been helping my patients in remission of opioid, nicotine, alcohol dependance. I have extensive experience in Medication Assisted Treatment.
I am a Double Board Certified psychiatrist in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I try achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I have been helping my patients in remission of opioid, nicotine, alcohol dependance. I have extensive experience in Medication Assisted Treatment.
![Photo of Joyce Mwaniki - Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70e36d37-b7f4-4ac4-b86f-7a64c80463df/5/320x400.jpeg)
Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.
Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.
![Photo of Crystal Akunne, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7535b2a-0563-410a-982c-a21b6274824b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am driven by a profound passion for mental wellness and an unwavering commitment to fostering positive change within the mental health community. With extensive experience in diverse mental health settings, including inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient clinics, I have consistently delivered high-quality care. My dedication lies in providing compassionate, holistic care that significantly influences patient's lives in a holistic manner.
I am driven by a profound passion for mental wellness and an unwavering commitment to fostering positive change within the mental health community. With extensive experience in diverse mental health settings, including inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient clinics, I have consistently delivered high-quality care. My dedication lies in providing compassionate, holistic care that significantly influences patient's lives in a holistic manner.
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![Photo of Philip David Korenman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/470ab0b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, and have been practicing in North Dallas and Plano for over 30 years. My specialty is mood disorders (including Bipolar Disorder), but I also treat anxiety disorders, eating disorders, ADD/ ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship and situational stress (including gender issues), and virtually any other situations that need professional consultation. While not an Addictions Psychiatrist, I have treated alcohol and substance use disorders for my entire career. Many substance use issues benefit from medication judiciously prescribed to assist in preventing cravings or relapse behaviors or to treat co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, and have been practicing in North Dallas and Plano for over 30 years. My specialty is mood disorders (including Bipolar Disorder), but I also treat anxiety disorders, eating disorders, ADD/ ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship and situational stress (including gender issues), and virtually any other situations that need professional consultation. While not an Addictions Psychiatrist, I have treated alcohol and substance use disorders for my entire career. Many substance use issues benefit from medication judiciously prescribed to assist in preventing cravings or relapse behaviors or to treat co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Agnes M. Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47181a7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Agnes M. Joseph
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Not accepting new clients
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist based in Dallas, Texas. I specialize in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders as well as exploring life transitions, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist based in Dallas, Texas. I specialize in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders as well as exploring life transitions, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
![Photo of Ifeoma Irokwe, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bd2584a-e40d-4445-9480-518d748c9ebc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ifeoma Irokwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha - Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6467d5e7-8092-4c4b-9793-e3e747f6fc27/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
![Photo of Sefelisha Harmon, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9183c921-cbb2-4d19-8ddd-eda1139399a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Felisha Harmon, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, brings extensive expertise in mental health care. Felisha began her nursing journey in 2013 and has been a boardcertified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2018. With a passion for promoting wellbeing, Felisha combines clinical knowledge and compassionate care to support individuals on their mental health journey. Known for exceptional communication and therapeutic skills, Felisha is committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment for patients seeking psychiatric care.
Felisha Harmon, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, brings extensive expertise in mental health care. Felisha began her nursing journey in 2013 and has been a boardcertified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2018. With a passion for promoting wellbeing, Felisha combines clinical knowledge and compassionate care to support individuals on their mental health journey. Known for exceptional communication and therapeutic skills, Felisha is committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment for patients seeking psychiatric care.
![Photo of Alexander Cole - Prestonwood Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6c4129a-55ca-4dc6-8b83-f73baf6bc777/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prestonwood Health is a physician-founded, owned, and operated psychiatric practice with three board-certified psychiatrists serving patients in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex and throughout Texas. Our team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, including medications, psychotherapy, and other interventions. We pride ourselves on our patient-centered, individualized approach that places you at the center of your treatment.
Prestonwood Health is a physician-founded, owned, and operated psychiatric practice with three board-certified psychiatrists serving patients in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex and throughout Texas. Our team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, including medications, psychotherapy, and other interventions. We pride ourselves on our patient-centered, individualized approach that places you at the center of your treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77521cf6-23ce-486b-a11b-892c7c330014/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephanie Ukoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
![Photo of Ahmed Montaser, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9d94f2a-f739-4fc5-87b9-7a8d6f018f3a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Ahmed Montaser is Dual- Board Certified by the ABPN (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology) in both General Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, with more than 15 years of clinical experience. Dr Montaser has lived in different parts of the world including the US, UK and Middle East. He has worked with patients from different cultural backgrounds and in a wide variety of clinical settings. He is bilingual in English and Arabic.
Dr Ahmed Montaser is Dual- Board Certified by the ABPN (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology) in both General Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, with more than 15 years of clinical experience. Dr Montaser has lived in different parts of the world including the US, UK and Middle East. He has worked with patients from different cultural backgrounds and in a wide variety of clinical settings. He is bilingual in English and Arabic.
![Photo of Ameena Isa, MD, MSCS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e825786-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable and confidential environment to explore evaluation and treatment options. We evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues, which may be adversely affecting family relationships. We also evaluate for educational success and the development of appropriate social skills. We are available to provide professional opinion and begin this process with you. We look forward to working with you!
Our practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable and confidential environment to explore evaluation and treatment options. We evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues, which may be adversely affecting family relationships. We also evaluate for educational success and the development of appropriate social skills. We are available to provide professional opinion and begin this process with you. We look forward to working with you!
See more therapy options for Plano
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Plano, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in Plano, TX who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Plano, TX see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
35% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Plano?
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.