Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX
![Photo of Corey Spence, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb88bf06-d0d1-4268-90f3-c24a17167ee1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corey Spence is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from OSU Medical School and OSU Psychiatry Residency. Corey believes in treating the patient as a whole. In his spare time, Corey enjoys going to concerts, watching movies, and spending time with his cats.
Corey Spence is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from OSU Medical School and OSU Psychiatry Residency. Corey believes in treating the patient as a whole. In his spare time, Corey enjoys going to concerts, watching movies, and spending time with his cats.
![Photo of Uche Uka, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3025848-73ce-4d18-8d4a-7c8aec63cc78/3/320x400.png)
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
![Photo of Alisha Fluker, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b03086de-d0c8-41a1-90cb-a3d9960521b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alisha Fluker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75006 (Online Only)
Are your relationships suffering because of your current mental state? Are you looking for a provider who will listen and partner with you on your journey to mental wellness? Look no further! I provide medication management services via telehealth which means you can be seen from the comfort of your home or office. I utilize a person-centered, integrative, and evidence-based methodology to steer therapeutic interventions. I collaborate with my patients to formulate a customized treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs.
Are your relationships suffering because of your current mental state? Are you looking for a provider who will listen and partner with you on your journey to mental wellness? Look no further! I provide medication management services via telehealth which means you can be seen from the comfort of your home or office. I utilize a person-centered, integrative, and evidence-based methodology to steer therapeutic interventions. I collaborate with my patients to formulate a customized treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs.
![Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e911f7d7-3635-4139-bfba-69015b994399/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
![Photo of Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61142631-4f6d-4bcb-a877-fb3a3da205b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104 (Online Only)
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cc3120d-cddb-4e80-ad28-8bdf72606183/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Picture navigating life’s hurdles, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client is someone looking for understanding and practical solutions to their mental health concerns. They aspire to regain control, rediscover hope, and lead a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re in search of a therapeutic environment at Legion Health where respect and empowerment are paramount, you’ve found the right place.
Picture navigating life’s hurdles, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client is someone looking for understanding and practical solutions to their mental health concerns. They aspire to regain control, rediscover hope, and lead a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re in search of a therapeutic environment at Legion Health where respect and empowerment are paramount, you’ve found the right place.
![Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ea178ce-8aab-4b19-9b70-eb31f6028908/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
![Photo of Mariam Odu Onikosi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23364494-5049-4eba-bec9-9a7d5a9caea2/1/320x400.png)
Modupeoluwa Mariam Odu-Onikosi is a dedicated, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Licensed Registered Nurse. She offers an accomplished combination of education and experience with hospital, inpatient/outpatient psychiatry, drug/alcohol treatment center, rehab, home health, and clinical training. She has a strong history of success in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses and medical and emotional illnesses including environmental, sociological, psychological, and physical factors of mental and emotional disorders. Mariam graduated from Walden University.
Modupeoluwa Mariam Odu-Onikosi is a dedicated, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Licensed Registered Nurse. She offers an accomplished combination of education and experience with hospital, inpatient/outpatient psychiatry, drug/alcohol treatment center, rehab, home health, and clinical training. She has a strong history of success in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses and medical and emotional illnesses including environmental, sociological, psychological, and physical factors of mental and emotional disorders. Mariam graduated from Walden University.
![Photo of Marie Taniform, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a26b6c-7044-4c37-8e88-06c51448902d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marie Taniform
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed and lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, or sometimes cry for no reason? Do you have problems focusing on school, work, or life and wonder why you are so forgetful, unable to concentrate and easily distracted? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss that have left you anxious and on the edge, or do you find it difficult to fall asleep at night and feel exhausted the next day? I can help you find that right balance to continue living your life optimally.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you have stress or anxiety? Do you feel sad or depressed and lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, or sometimes cry for no reason? Do you have problems focusing on school, work, or life and wonder why you are so forgetful, unable to concentrate and easily distracted? Were you exposed to traumatic events or loss that have left you anxious and on the edge, or do you find it difficult to fall asleep at night and feel exhausted the next day? I can help you find that right balance to continue living your life optimally.
![Photo of Nelson Kwowi - Regency Psychiatric Services LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16c474e7-c3a4-4b9a-a673-2a2c73adf293/5/320x400.jpeg)
Regency Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Nelson Kwowi, PMHNP- Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients with mental health conditions. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Arlington and worked at JPS Hospital’s Department of Emergency Psychiatry for 5+ years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Nelson has worked with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, Schizophrenia, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing compassionate and supportive care.
Nelson Kwowi, PMHNP- Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients with mental health conditions. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Arlington and worked at JPS Hospital’s Department of Emergency Psychiatry for 5+ years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Nelson has worked with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, Schizophrenia, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing compassionate and supportive care.
![Photo of Etienne Clement Poufong - Integrative Psychiatry Services PLLC, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd50c86-6b10-4208-b0c2-3002ab5f26f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Psychiatry Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104 (Online Only)
Over 43 million people in America and 1 out of 5 adults struggle with mental health problems. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. You don't have to suffer in silence. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Book your Appointment.
Over 43 million people in America and 1 out of 5 adults struggle with mental health problems. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. You don't have to suffer in silence. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Book your Appointment.
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![Photo of Violet N Ashu - Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/416b0fea-451c-45c3-a9f6-3a2723ef1444/1/320x400.jpeg)
Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75220
Violet Ashu, an ANCC board-certified PMHNP-BC, specializes in providing client-centered mental health services using evidence-based, holistic, individualized care to enable clients to achieve a healthy, productive, and positive sense of self. Has experience in psychiatric/medical settings for 16 years. Good mental health is our greatest wealth, but poor mental health makes us more vulnerable to certain physical health issues. Work experience was with Intouch Psychiatry, Meditelecare, and Done Health. Currently with Grow Therapy, ALMA, Headway, Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness, Rula Health, and Texas Health Resources.
Violet Ashu, an ANCC board-certified PMHNP-BC, specializes in providing client-centered mental health services using evidence-based, holistic, individualized care to enable clients to achieve a healthy, productive, and positive sense of self. Has experience in psychiatric/medical settings for 16 years. Good mental health is our greatest wealth, but poor mental health makes us more vulnerable to certain physical health issues. Work experience was with Intouch Psychiatry, Meditelecare, and Done Health. Currently with Grow Therapy, ALMA, Headway, Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness, Rula Health, and Texas Health Resources.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c61775a8-ed94-4ee7-a25d-5fe132ddcb7c/1/320x400.png)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Munira Jiwani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/893a54a5-c955-4df6-a0da-01625d2f4114/1/320x400.png)
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
![Photo of Nancy Soll Shosid, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a7323ba-7ff8-444e-91db-2ee55de4c533/2/320x400.jpeg)
After practicing psychiatry for 30 years my practice has evolved with a focus on Functional Psychiatry and Women's Brain Health. If you have a psychiatric condition and are looking to alternatives to psychiatric medications or ways to decrease or optimize your response to your medications Functional Psychiatry may the approach you have been missing. Additionally, if you are a woman of any age it is never too early or late to focus on ways to maximize your brain health. This is especially important to women in the perimenopausal and postmenopausal age range as the rate of Dementia is on the rise.
After practicing psychiatry for 30 years my practice has evolved with a focus on Functional Psychiatry and Women's Brain Health. If you have a psychiatric condition and are looking to alternatives to psychiatric medications or ways to decrease or optimize your response to your medications Functional Psychiatry may the approach you have been missing. Additionally, if you are a woman of any age it is never too early or late to focus on ways to maximize your brain health. This is especially important to women in the perimenopausal and postmenopausal age range as the rate of Dementia is on the rise.
![Photo of Krystel L Long, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e96668f0-d3e2-4dcf-ad58-bc6f246b8ce4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Krystel L Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Desoto, TX 75115 (Online Only)
My goal is to help improve the quality of life for those struggling with their mental health concerns. I believe that psychiatric care should focus on providing clients with individualized treatment plans to meet their specific need which may include medication management and supportive psychotherapy.
My goal is to help improve the quality of life for those struggling with their mental health concerns. I believe that psychiatric care should focus on providing clients with individualized treatment plans to meet their specific need which may include medication management and supportive psychotherapy.
![Photo of Olayiwola Raphael Ilori, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b1d95d5-26b7-49c3-bd7e-79a728cb4da2/1/320x400.png)
Olayiwola Raphael Ilori
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116 (Online Only)
I am Olayiwola Raphael Ilori, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the states of Texas and Pennsylvania. I bring a wealth of experience dedicated to fostering my patients' optimal quality of life. My mission is to provide personalized, evidence-based psychiatric care that addresses individual needs comprehensively. I am fervently committed to delivering top-tier mental health services across all stages of life.
I am Olayiwola Raphael Ilori, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the states of Texas and Pennsylvania. I bring a wealth of experience dedicated to fostering my patients' optimal quality of life. My mission is to provide personalized, evidence-based psychiatric care that addresses individual needs comprehensively. I am fervently committed to delivering top-tier mental health services across all stages of life.
![Photo of Dr. Jarrod Tunnell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6b66f1d-1407-410b-8197-f72ccab7277c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
![Photo of Dr. Ket Harris, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc84c64a-c1c8-4ece-9ed5-870396abecc0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ket Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75051
Are you looking for a healthcare provider who can offer you quality patient care with compassion, care, and customization? Look no further than Keturah Health! Our team of experienced nurse practitioners, including Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Ket Harris, DNP, bring a wealth of knowledge, clinical experience, and skills to their role at Keturah Health. At Keturah Health, we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of our clients by integrating health and wellness into each patient's everyday life. Our approach yields excellent results, and we are committed to providing top-quality patient care.
Are you looking for a healthcare provider who can offer you quality patient care with compassion, care, and customization? Look no further than Keturah Health! Our team of experienced nurse practitioners, including Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Ket Harris, DNP, bring a wealth of knowledge, clinical experience, and skills to their role at Keturah Health. At Keturah Health, we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of our clients by integrating health and wellness into each patient's everyday life. Our approach yields excellent results, and we are committed to providing top-quality patient care.
![Photo of Susan Austin, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1546828-650d-4b2e-af9a-77f8a91efda2/1/320x400.jpeg)
You are not your illness. But sometimes mental struggles can get in the way of living a full life. You might find yourself worried, stressed, and no longer enjoying things that are important to you. This may reflect a chemical imbalance in your brain which can contribute to anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and more. If you’re a new mom, this might affect your ability to bond with your infant. I provide support and medication as appropriate, to address these and other problems. I often work with adolescents and adults, so they can better manage symptoms and have the time and energy for a more satisfying and enjoyable life.
You are not your illness. But sometimes mental struggles can get in the way of living a full life. You might find yourself worried, stressed, and no longer enjoying things that are important to you. This may reflect a chemical imbalance in your brain which can contribute to anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and more. If you’re a new mom, this might affect your ability to bond with your infant. I provide support and medication as appropriate, to address these and other problems. I often work with adolescents and adults, so they can better manage symptoms and have the time and energy for a more satisfying and enjoyable life.
See more therapy options for Dallas County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX
500+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas County?
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.