Psychiatrists in Texas
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
Anne-Marie Odo Tms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Addison, TX 75001
Dr. Anne-Marie Odo DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, ASN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Small steps big changes Semper healthcare Treatment Center provides professionally supervised Opiate Addiction maintenance with the use of Methadone as well as Suboxone. Dr. Odo values interdisciplinary clinical practice and inter-professional collaboration for a whole person, patient-centered approach to health and healthcare. “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it”. (Proverb 3:27)"
Dr. Anne-Marie Odo DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, ASN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Small steps big changes Semper healthcare Treatment Center provides professionally supervised Opiate Addiction maintenance with the use of Methadone as well as Suboxone. Dr. Odo values interdisciplinary clinical practice and inter-professional collaboration for a whole person, patient-centered approach to health and healthcare. “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it”. (Proverb 3:27)"
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78215 (Online Only)
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Anu Bode-Oloye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Mental Health provider based in Texas. I am licensed in Florida, New York, Maryland, and California, and I received my Master's degree from Walden University and have been practicing for four years. I have been a registered nurse for 13 years working with different patients and clients. I help clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mental health illnesses.
Hello, I am a Mental Health provider based in Texas. I am licensed in Florida, New York, Maryland, and California, and I received my Master's degree from Walden University and have been practicing for four years. I have been a registered nurse for 13 years working with different patients and clients. I help clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mental health illnesses.
Rasheedat Koleosho at Mental Soothe PLLC Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77069 (Online Only)
Healing Minds, Changing Lives - who else wouldn't want to change for the better? My name is Rasheedat Koleosho, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides client-centered care with individualized treatment plans. I have over 10 years of experience in the medical field and a master’s degree in nursing from the Grand Canyon University and Post-graduate Certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Rocky Mountain University. I have also received additional training and certifications in various evidence-based therapies and interventions.
Healing Minds, Changing Lives - who else wouldn't want to change for the better? My name is Rasheedat Koleosho, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides client-centered care with individualized treatment plans. I have over 10 years of experience in the medical field and a master’s degree in nursing from the Grand Canyon University and Post-graduate Certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Rocky Mountain University. I have also received additional training and certifications in various evidence-based therapies and interventions.
Sara Stokes-Hubert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76116
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Fort Worth, TX who works with clients 12 and up who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit disorders, etc. I also specialize in helping those who are dealing with grief and loss. I worked my entire nursing career in pediatrics. Although I now treat patients of all ages, I am excited to combine my experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with my passion for providing quality mental health services.
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Fort Worth, TX who works with clients 12 and up who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit disorders, etc. I also specialize in helping those who are dealing with grief and loss. I worked my entire nursing career in pediatrics. Although I now treat patients of all ages, I am excited to combine my experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with my passion for providing quality mental health services.
Tri-Crowns Holistic Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
El Paso, TX 79912 (Online Only)
Are you ready for a change? Are you struggling with ADHD, Depression, Eating disorders, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Bipolar disorder, OCD, and LGBTQIA support? I can help you find the way to the healthiest you. My approach to care is to provide compassionate, safe, evidence-based care centered on emotional, mental, and physical stability and well-being through holistic intervention, psychotherapy, or medication management. Let’s embark on this wellness journey together where we can explore self-awareness, emotions, gain new insights, manage stress, build coping skills, and improve self-love. I look forward to working with you.
Are you ready for a change? Are you struggling with ADHD, Depression, Eating disorders, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Bipolar disorder, OCD, and LGBTQIA support? I can help you find the way to the healthiest you. My approach to care is to provide compassionate, safe, evidence-based care centered on emotional, mental, and physical stability and well-being through holistic intervention, psychotherapy, or medication management. Let’s embark on this wellness journey together where we can explore self-awareness, emotions, gain new insights, manage stress, build coping skills, and improve self-love. I look forward to working with you.
Shalanda Cross- Psychiatry Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
A board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patient advocacy, behavioral interventions, and mood disorders. It is important as a provider that patients have a safe environment to discuss mental health issues without feeling stigmatized. Patients will work collaboratively to address unhealthy thoughts and actions, work towards improving mood disorders, create healthy goals, and regain self-confidence.
A board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patient advocacy, behavioral interventions, and mood disorders. It is important as a provider that patients have a safe environment to discuss mental health issues without feeling stigmatized. Patients will work collaboratively to address unhealthy thoughts and actions, work towards improving mood disorders, create healthy goals, and regain self-confidence.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701 (Online Only)
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner 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 facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner 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.
Chase Bishop - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Chase Bishop, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing with honors at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He graduated top of his class with his Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Texas State University.
Chase Bishop, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing with honors at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He graduated top of his class with his Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Texas State University.
Dr. Rachel Sherhart is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 4 years. Dr. Sherhart specializes in medication management with 30-minute follow-up visits. This may be accompanied by elements of supportive therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. If more in-depth work is needed, she may refer patients to a collaborating psychotherapist.
Dr. Rachel Sherhart is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 4 years. Dr. Sherhart specializes in medication management with 30-minute follow-up visits. This may be accompanied by elements of supportive therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. If more in-depth work is needed, she may refer patients to a collaborating psychotherapist.
Brittany Manor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78218 (Online Only)
Brittany Manor is the founder and owner of Manor Behavioral Health providing virtual services in Texas, Colorado & North Dakota. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience in assessing & treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings helping client feel safe and empowered to achieve mental freedom.
Brittany Manor is the founder and owner of Manor Behavioral Health providing virtual services in Texas, Colorado & North Dakota. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience in assessing & treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings helping client feel safe and empowered to achieve mental freedom.
Damian Hooker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denton, TX 76201 (Online Only)
Damian Hooker is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is currently licensed in Washington State, New Mexico, and Texas. He has a passion for mental health and helping patients become their best self. He uses evidence based practice to treat patients to the best of his ability. Damian uses compassion, empathy, and respect to ease patients through difficult times. Damian works with patients that have mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and etc. He also has experience with sleep medicine. He believes in the importance of involving patients in their care.
Damian Hooker is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is currently licensed in Washington State, New Mexico, and Texas. He has a passion for mental health and helping patients become their best self. He uses evidence based practice to treat patients to the best of his ability. Damian uses compassion, empathy, and respect to ease patients through difficult times. Damian works with patients that have mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and etc. He also has experience with sleep medicine. He believes in the importance of involving patients in their care.
Robin Turner Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longview, TX 75602
In the current healthcare environment, finding a provider to prescribe medications for mental health concerns can be a difficult and frustrating process. Many people search for months for a prescriber only to be told they must wait even longer on a waiting list. Some shy away from entering treatment due to fear of being judged or looked down upon because of their mental health or addiction struggles. The providers at Resolute are here to bridge the gap for people in need of psychiatric medication management and substance use treatment.
In the current healthcare environment, finding a provider to prescribe medications for mental health concerns can be a difficult and frustrating process. Many people search for months for a prescriber only to be told they must wait even longer on a waiting list. Some shy away from entering treatment due to fear of being judged or looked down upon because of their mental health or addiction struggles. The providers at Resolute are here to bridge the gap for people in need of psychiatric medication management and substance use treatment.
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
Dr. Uche Uka is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with ten years of work experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Mary Hardin, Baylor, a Master of Science in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of South Alabama. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to find the most suitable treatment model based on their diagnoses and mental health needs. These include pharmacological interventions where we discuss treatment goals and guide patient to take approved medications to help them meet their therapeutic goal
Dr. Uche Uka is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with ten years of work experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Mary Hardin, Baylor, a Master of Science in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of South Alabama. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to find the most suitable treatment model based on their diagnoses and mental health needs. These include pharmacological interventions where we discuss treatment goals and guide patient to take approved medications to help them meet their therapeutic goal
Journey Anew, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76137 (Online Only)
Every client is treated holistically, recognizing that the body, mind, and spirit are integral parts of a person's health. Discovering the root cause of a problem is the first step to being empowered to achieve improved health outcomes. At Journey Anew individualized patient-centered care is delivered by utilizing evidenced-based guidelines combined with clinical experience and intuition for optimization of client outcomes.
Every client is treated holistically, recognizing that the body, mind, and spirit are integral parts of a person's health. Discovering the root cause of a problem is the first step to being empowered to achieve improved health outcomes. At Journey Anew individualized patient-centered care is delivered by utilizing evidenced-based guidelines combined with clinical experience and intuition for optimization of client outcomes.
See more therapy options for Texas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$178
Psychiatrists in Texas who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Texas see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Texas?
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.