Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdbc33a8-6f0b-4f51-be92-c4415ba9184b/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 Stella A Bediako, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b5ede3e-2480-4ae5-b539-9b04bc686f29/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 13 years expedience with psychiatry and I’m passionate in assisting individuals with their mental health. I’m emphatic, compassionate, trustworthy, respectful, dependable and caring individual and I’m willing to help.
I have over 13 years expedience with psychiatry and I’m passionate in assisting individuals with their mental health. I’m emphatic, compassionate, trustworthy, respectful, dependable and caring individual and I’m willing to help.
![Photo of Edwige Tonye, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39b9e9d2-79a7-400e-ae9b-4d1c3d61709b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edwige Tonye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75035 (Online Only)
As a board- certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate mental health care to patients dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/ addiction, mood/personality disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and many more. I possess strong clinical skills and have the ability to build strong connections with patients and families. My goal is to provide an optimum level of care to all my patients by promoting mental well-being. I believe the use of psychotherapy, medication, patient’s active participation in the care, is the key for the treatment of mental health disorders.
As a board- certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate mental health care to patients dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/ addiction, mood/personality disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and many more. I possess strong clinical skills and have the ability to build strong connections with patients and families. My goal is to provide an optimum level of care to all my patients by promoting mental well-being. I believe the use of psychotherapy, medication, patient’s active participation in the care, is the key for the treatment of mental health disorders.
![Photo of Rose Ijioma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b2533f-b997-4b93-ac41-0424cfb39488/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you meet your goals. I want to hear what is causing your discomfort, how long you have been experiencing your challenges and then I will collaborate with you, your family and medical providers if appropriate to develop the best treatment plan for you to meet your goals and provide you with relief.
My goal is to help you meet your goals. I want to hear what is causing your discomfort, how long you have been experiencing your challenges and then I will collaborate with you, your family and medical providers if appropriate to develop the best treatment plan for you to meet your goals and provide you with relief.
![Photo of Dr. Alice Sanchez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4e4ffd7-8715-4728-8203-c3a6539118c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I have been in practice in diverse settings for 19 years. I trained in general psychiatry at Maimonides medical center in New York and completed a geriatric fellowship at New York University. I firmly believe that effective treatment is a collaborative process and I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately, in ways that are tailored to the individual.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I have been in practice in diverse settings for 19 years. I trained in general psychiatry at Maimonides medical center in New York and completed a geriatric fellowship at New York University. I firmly believe that effective treatment is a collaborative process and I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately, in ways that are tailored to the individual.
![Photo of Cindy Garrision, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6f903de-5ce4-4058-a891-9e2b4e193de3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy obtained her M.S. in Nursing at Midwestern State University and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a professor of psychiatric nursing at Baylor University. Cindy specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders in adults and adolescents, and has more than 25 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Cindy has additional training and certification in the field of maternal mental health, and has a passion for helping those struggling with issues during the prenatal (pregnancy) and postpartum (after birth) time frames.
Cindy obtained her M.S. in Nursing at Midwestern State University and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a professor of psychiatric nursing at Baylor University. Cindy specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders in adults and adolescents, and has more than 25 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Cindy has additional training and certification in the field of maternal mental health, and has a passion for helping those struggling with issues during the prenatal (pregnancy) and postpartum (after birth) time frames.
![Photo of Jacinta Madu, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b21a749b-359e-4c7e-820d-1834b5e26589/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Jacinta Madu. I am an experienced PMHNP-BC with a strong background specializing in psychiatric-mental health and behavioral issues across the lifespan. I am a strong believer that mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are having difficulty coping with life or experiencing a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function on a daily basis, let me help! I have practiced in a variety of settings as an independent member of the health care team, collaborating with other health professionals to provide mental health care services.
My name is Jacinta Madu. I am an experienced PMHNP-BC with a strong background specializing in psychiatric-mental health and behavioral issues across the lifespan. I am a strong believer that mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are having difficulty coping with life or experiencing a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function on a daily basis, let me help! I have practiced in a variety of settings as an independent member of the health care team, collaborating with other health professionals to provide mental health care services.
![Photo of Alyxandra Bui, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b0aedc5-b1e1-4484-8bf5-e197f4e748c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
![Photo of April Monarrez Parker - EZ Mind Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30724db4-ad0c-460f-af21-65b5fb6c899a/3/320x400.jpeg)
EZ Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
![Photo of Florence Abioye, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6562c9be-c9e8-4d79-80f0-58e36b34a48a/2/320x400.png)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Flo’s approach to patient care is rooted in evidence-based practices, compassion, and innovative techniques. These guiding philosophies ensure she provides her patients with the most effective and up-to-date treatments. Flo helps with depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disorders, and holistic wellness. One of her notable strengths lies in Flo’s ability to be empathetic and transparent with her patients. Empathy equally forms the foundation of Flo’s patient-centered approach, where she prioritizes the patient’s goals, values, and preferences when developing a treatment plan.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Flo’s approach to patient care is rooted in evidence-based practices, compassion, and innovative techniques. These guiding philosophies ensure she provides her patients with the most effective and up-to-date treatments. Flo helps with depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disorders, and holistic wellness. One of her notable strengths lies in Flo’s ability to be empathetic and transparent with her patients. Empathy equally forms the foundation of Flo’s patient-centered approach, where she prioritizes the patient’s goals, values, and preferences when developing a treatment plan.
![Photo of Melaine Ndi, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcf7ca51-bb07-45ff-a4a2-e836baa1a7ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melaine Ndi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033 (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I use an evidence-based and holistic approach that aims to enhance the adaptive and healing capability of each individual. I encourage self-care and personal responsibility, fostering independence and a sense of empowerment for you. After a thorough psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis, and if counseling alone is not enough, psychiatric medication regimens can be explored and kept as simple as possible. You will be educated on medication risks, benefits and available treatment options, to allow informed decision-making and to provide patient-centered care.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I use an evidence-based and holistic approach that aims to enhance the adaptive and healing capability of each individual. I encourage self-care and personal responsibility, fostering independence and a sense of empowerment for you. After a thorough psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis, and if counseling alone is not enough, psychiatric medication regimens can be explored and kept as simple as possible. You will be educated on medication risks, benefits and available treatment options, to allow informed decision-making and to provide patient-centered care.
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![Photo of Jacinta Madu - GOFAN Healthcare Services - Psychiatry , APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ec8460-9654-46c7-b2cc-c5628e202406/3/320x400.jpeg)
GOFAN Healthcare Services - Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently practicing in Frisco TX. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently practicing in Frisco TX. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
![Photo of Syed Bukhari, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00e4c222-575b-40bc-bfb5-561f5c4576df/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years' experience in medical and psychiatric environments. I have clinical experience in diverse psychiatric settings, these include inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and C&L psychiatry. I worked as a Team leader of ACT team as well as a TMS provider in outpatient setting. I have held key positions such as teaching and leadership roles throughout my career, including residency and afterwards working as a staff psychiatrist. Aside from my private practice; I am the Medical Director and inpatient/intensive outpatient psychiatrist at Wellbridge Healthcare Hospital, Fort Worth, TX.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years' experience in medical and psychiatric environments. I have clinical experience in diverse psychiatric settings, these include inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and C&L psychiatry. I worked as a Team leader of ACT team as well as a TMS provider in outpatient setting. I have held key positions such as teaching and leadership roles throughout my career, including residency and afterwards working as a staff psychiatrist. Aside from my private practice; I am the Medical Director and inpatient/intensive outpatient psychiatrist at Wellbridge Healthcare Hospital, Fort Worth, TX.
![Photo of Furqan Rizvi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a11832b3-e3ef-4b45-98b0-2126bd18fe73/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, currently providing psychiatric services at a private office in Frisco Mental Health Services and as a chief medical officer at Haven Behavioral Hospital of Frisco. Dr. Rizvi provides services to ages 10 years and above. He is well experienced in providing medication management for a wide spectrum of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, schizophrenia, sleep issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and behavioral disturbances related to dementia.
Dr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, currently providing psychiatric services at a private office in Frisco Mental Health Services and as a chief medical officer at Haven Behavioral Hospital of Frisco. Dr. Rizvi provides services to ages 10 years and above. He is well experienced in providing medication management for a wide spectrum of psychiatric illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, schizophrenia, sleep issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and behavioral disturbances related to dementia.
![Photo of Cathrine Odim-Eluebo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aad84a74-742d-444b-85ac-0b2dc2447acf/2/320x400.png)
Cathrine Odim-Eluebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
”Mind is full of energy, so health of the mind matters first”- Hira Ratan Manek. HI.. I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner qualified to practice in psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Some practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, Panic disorder, Mood disorder, and PTSD.
”Mind is full of energy, so health of the mind matters first”- Hira Ratan Manek. HI.. I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner qualified to practice in psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Some practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, Panic disorder, Mood disorder, and PTSD.
![Photo of Omotayo Gbengaojo - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f79707a2-08e6-47f0-bffa-f8752cd391a7/2/320x400.png)
Holistic Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
![Photo of Jolyn Allen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0b8a1a1-617f-4278-9dcf-674083b245bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jolyn Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75033
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
![Photo of Remedios Hebert - Aloha Mental Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ead5b161-b911-4947-aa64-a26abc63fcc9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aloha Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033 (Online Only)
I partner with my clients to find the best treatment options for their situations. Having been a Registered Nurse for over 20 years, I know the impact of mental health on the lives of not only our patients but also their families and loved ones. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in all lifespans for treating conditions related to mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, substance use, ADHD, and other behavioral health-related issues. I feel privileged to have the experience of working with diverse populations in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and community settings.
I partner with my clients to find the best treatment options for their situations. Having been a Registered Nurse for over 20 years, I know the impact of mental health on the lives of not only our patients but also their families and loved ones. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in all lifespans for treating conditions related to mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, substance use, ADHD, and other behavioral health-related issues. I feel privileged to have the experience of working with diverse populations in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and community settings.
![Photo of Milka Kamau, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ae8741-3db8-4fd3-ba6a-06114c060993/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
![Photo of Tayo Olotewo - Tayo Olotewo @ Thrive Psychiatry,PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f8f620f-d4ce-4aff-ac58-180e00da3acb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tayo Olotewo @ Thrive Psychiatry,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Are you ready to take the first step in getting the help you desire? At Thrive Psychiatry, PLLC, we provide virtual psychiatric treatments. We incorporate holistic, individualized treatment to each client's treatment. If you are looking for a safe, compassionate judgment free zone, we are here to assist you.
Are you ready to take the first step in getting the help you desire? At Thrive Psychiatry, PLLC, we provide virtual psychiatric treatments. We incorporate holistic, individualized treatment to each client's treatment. If you are looking for a safe, compassionate judgment free zone, we are here to assist you.
See more therapy options for Frisco
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
91% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | ADHD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Frisco, TX see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Frisco?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.