Psychiatrists in Rowlett, TX
![Photo of Humphrey Onyeonoro Chama - H and M Healthcare of Texas Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b30ede8-d4ee-4ed3-b153-6e489125a583/2/320x400.jpeg)
H and M Healthcare of Texas Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rowlett, TX 75089 (Online Only)
Dedicated and patient-focused professional with extensive experience in providing psychiatric consultation, diagnostic, and treatment services to the identified patient population, including medication management and crisis intervention services. Maintains composure and makes decisions in fast-paced, unpredictable, and stressful environments. Demonstrated abilities in discussing with patients about their problems, building relationships with patients, implementing therapies, administering medication, monitoring patient progress, handling distressed patients in a non-threatening manner, implementing care plans, updating records
Dedicated and patient-focused professional with extensive experience in providing psychiatric consultation, diagnostic, and treatment services to the identified patient population, including medication management and crisis intervention services. Maintains composure and makes decisions in fast-paced, unpredictable, and stressful environments. Demonstrated abilities in discussing with patients about their problems, building relationships with patients, implementing therapies, administering medication, monitoring patient progress, handling distressed patients in a non-threatening manner, implementing care plans, updating records
![Photo of Tiruwork M Hiruy - Integrated Psychiatry Services, PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73ceba6f-67e9-4519-99fb-e2ffb6bcaea1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rowlett, TX 75088
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.
![Photo of Andrea Yoshiko Carter - Hamada Healing Center, PLLC, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b578026-958c-48a2-a57a-d488d4661abb/3/320x400.png)
Hamada Healing Center, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rowlett, TX 75030
Hamada Healing Center adopts a holistic approach to mental health looking beyond the client’s symptoms and addressing underlying causes. Treatment plans are evidence-based and may include coping skills, mindfulness, psychotherapy and/or medication management. We aim to foster transformation by enhancing mental health resilience and empowering personal growth for all.
Hamada Healing Center adopts a holistic approach to mental health looking beyond the client’s symptoms and addressing underlying causes. Treatment plans are evidence-based and may include coping skills, mindfulness, psychotherapy and/or medication management. We aim to foster transformation by enhancing mental health resilience and empowering personal growth for all.
![Photo of Ashkan Soltan - MindWell Urgent Care, MD, FAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edc229f3-18b3-4d08-934b-c7bd42f37482/2/320x400.jpeg)
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
![Photo of Jennifer Kent Autry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3641fb7-fe7a-4381-aff0-e8a5351a20b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Kent Autry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rowlett, TX 75088 (Online Only)
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and elders with attention deficit disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chemical dependency issues. I have experience in both private practice and governmental entities, including working with the homeless in Tarrant County & at a Maximum Security Forensic State Hospital. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the Neuroscience Education Institute. I have extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Elizabeth Ucheoma-Cofield, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f614318-2f93-4740-8f19-47dd8063aa62/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified Child/Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over a decade of experience in managing both simple and complex child, adolescent, and adult cases in a variety of clincal settings ranging from hospital based to telemedicine. My practice focuses on providing holistic mental health care to the entire family by utilizing nutrition, exercise, therapeutic modalities, and psychiatric medication management to optimize outcomes. I provide easily accessible psychiatric care utilizing a telepsychiatry based platform, and my hours of service provision are tailored to fit comfortably within your family's schedule.
I am a double board certified Child/Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over a decade of experience in managing both simple and complex child, adolescent, and adult cases in a variety of clincal settings ranging from hospital based to telemedicine. My practice focuses on providing holistic mental health care to the entire family by utilizing nutrition, exercise, therapeutic modalities, and psychiatric medication management to optimize outcomes. I provide easily accessible psychiatric care utilizing a telepsychiatry based platform, and my hours of service provision are tailored to fit comfortably within your family's schedule.
![Photo of Deepti Vats, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35cf8f61-bf85-4812-82aa-61a6122163d6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deepti Vats M.D. is a compassionate and dedicated physician who has been in the field of Psychiatry for the past ten years. She is board certified in General and Forensic Psychiatry and licensed to practice in Texas. She is well versed with medication management of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and other psychiatric illness.
Deepti Vats M.D. is a compassionate and dedicated physician who has been in the field of Psychiatry for the past ten years. She is board certified in General and Forensic Psychiatry and licensed to practice in Texas. She is well versed with medication management of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and other psychiatric illness.
![Photo of Cecilia Chanda - Great hope psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c261a5d-c119-4ac5-994a-c01dc47ebdc4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Great hope Psychiatry and Behavioural Health Services is a private, outpatient psychiatric and behavioural health practice based in Garland, Texas. We are committed to working with you to help you navigate challenging situations and achieve your mental health goals. We treat patients with depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, bipolar, mood, sleep, and other psychiatric conditions, and children with psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, and Autism. My goal is to keep patients healthy, stable, functional, and productive. I work closely with patient's family to provide support and education.
Great hope Psychiatry and Behavioural Health Services is a private, outpatient psychiatric and behavioural health practice based in Garland, Texas. We are committed to working with you to help you navigate challenging situations and achieve your mental health goals. We treat patients with depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, bipolar, mood, sleep, and other psychiatric conditions, and children with psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, and Autism. My goal is to keep patients healthy, stable, functional, and productive. I work closely with patient's family to provide support and education.
![Photo of Eunice Bitutu Ontita - Healing Souls Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca54d6a8-a2a6-40da-b7ba-560a85f3d3e9/1/320x400.png)
Healing Souls Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rowlett, TX 75088
At Healing Souls psychiatry, we strive for the best experience by offering non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic mental and behavioral health services. Our goal is to help you lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle. We believe in individualized therapeutic services to meet specific needs of our clients.
At Healing Souls psychiatry, we strive for the best experience by offering non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic mental and behavioral health services. Our goal is to help you lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle. We believe in individualized therapeutic services to meet specific needs of our clients.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jackie Michael - Access Behavioral Care: Faith Health and Wellness, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d0581fe-65af-49ce-95ad-ebb78abb8464/2/320x400.jpeg)
Access Behavioral Care: Faith Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75044
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
![Photo of Michael Millstone - Dr. Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c7f6eec-8b95-4ca3-bd91-2992d5205733/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75040 (Online Only)
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
![Photo of Alexandrea Waytes - Love Bond Community Outreach- Alexandrea Waytes, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/552ff178-fd5e-484d-868e-5d25b9639de2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Love Bond Community Outreach- Alexandrea Waytes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75043
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with two years of specialized experience and over 20 years in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across the lifespan. My journey began as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse, where I honed my skills on a Psychiatric unit, and has evolved into a multifaceted role encompassing both medication management and therapy for individuals ranging from 5 years old to 99 years old. This extensive background has equipped me with a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the diverse needs of my patients.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with two years of specialized experience and over 20 years in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across the lifespan. My journey began as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse, where I honed my skills on a Psychiatric unit, and has evolved into a multifaceted role encompassing both medication management and therapy for individuals ranging from 5 years old to 99 years old. This extensive background has equipped me with a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the diverse needs of my patients.
![Photo of Theophilus Uka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c76aae2-8b4d-4a24-9569-28c585604a0e/3/320x400.png)
Theophilus Uka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75150 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client would be someone who is dedicated to their mental well-being, personal growth, and healing journey, willing to participate in self-reflection, and actively play a part in the therapeutic process. Some issues that my idyllic client might face are struggles with anxiety or depression, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Their primary goal would be to improve their overall mental health and well-being and in need of guidance and expertise to attain this goal. The client would need to develop coping strategies and find a sense of balance.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client would be someone who is dedicated to their mental well-being, personal growth, and healing journey, willing to participate in self-reflection, and actively play a part in the therapeutic process. Some issues that my idyllic client might face are struggles with anxiety or depression, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Their primary goal would be to improve their overall mental health and well-being and in need of guidance and expertise to attain this goal. The client would need to develop coping strategies and find a sense of balance.
![Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543624fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75040 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
![Photo of Velile Nkolomi, MSN, APRN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2f55d2a-363a-44ea-a965-e923475f24fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Velile Nkolomi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75043
I have a strong affinity for collaborating with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds. My practice extends to treating a broad spectrum of age groups, including children, pre-teens, adolescents, and adults aged 11 and above. I approach my patients with genuine warmth, empathy, and a complete absence of judgment, fostering an environment where they feel understood and respected. Embracing diversity enriches my professional experience, and I take pleasure in engaging with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, my practice is dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being and overall quality of life.
I have a strong affinity for collaborating with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds. My practice extends to treating a broad spectrum of age groups, including children, pre-teens, adolescents, and adults aged 11 and above. I approach my patients with genuine warmth, empathy, and a complete absence of judgment, fostering an environment where they feel understood and respected. Embracing diversity enriches my professional experience, and I take pleasure in engaging with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, my practice is dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being and overall quality of life.
![Photo of Kendall P. Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66b252ac-a63e-496b-9bd1-f935bdaaf8fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting patients for a wait list, for patients via telehealth . If you call through Psychology Today, I will return calls via a 469 - ### ##99 number and text ahead that I will call. Any contacts with me, are, of course, kept completely confidential. My clinic is currently focused on help with psychotherapy (specifically for problems with depression, nervousness, conflict, and anger), developmental genetics, geriatrics, and end of life care. I focus on the patient's goals and barriers to those goals, and on sources of distress. If you have any questions with a clinical matter, please call.
I am currently accepting patients for a wait list, for patients via telehealth . If you call through Psychology Today, I will return calls via a 469 - ### ##99 number and text ahead that I will call. Any contacts with me, are, of course, kept completely confidential. My clinic is currently focused on help with psychotherapy (specifically for problems with depression, nervousness, conflict, and anger), developmental genetics, geriatrics, and end of life care. I focus on the patient's goals and barriers to those goals, and on sources of distress. If you have any questions with a clinical matter, please call.
![Photo of Bosede Gbemisola Iwuamadi - Newstone Behavioral Health, DNP, APRN, NP, PMHNP, BEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15162065-5de9-4cf1-8556-212b44944815/2/320x400.jpeg)
Newstone Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, NP, PMHNP, BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75041 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients within 24 Hrs.! We treat various mental health disorders through telepsychiatry services that make it easy to get help without long waits and from the convenience of your home. quality and safe healthcare services to our patients consistent with standard medical practice and ethics. At Newstone Behavioral Health, we have collaborating physician, Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified and office assistance who are trained and dedicated with experience in mental health care.
Accepting new patients within 24 Hrs.! We treat various mental health disorders through telepsychiatry services that make it easy to get help without long waits and from the convenience of your home. quality and safe healthcare services to our patients consistent with standard medical practice and ethics. At Newstone Behavioral Health, we have collaborating physician, Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified and office assistance who are trained and dedicated with experience in mental health care.
![Photo of Martha Ego Ozo - New Horizon Psychiatry, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16e1260f-acea-4db1-b197-45a6a9554b2a/1/320x400.png)
New Horizon Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
Clients who present with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, would want to achieve both short term and long term goals with a positive outcome in their quest for mental health wellness.
Clients who present with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, would want to achieve both short term and long term goals with a positive outcome in their quest for mental health wellness.
![Photo of Krystal Kalt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a9a87ca-5d38-41dd-851a-3c53dada585b/1/320x400.png)
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
My name is Krystal Kalt and I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in San Antonio, Texas. I value empathy, evidence, and education in my practice and specialize in addressing a range of mental health conditions in older adolescents and adults. I use a combination of medication management, brief supportive therapy, and personalized interventions to help provide symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
![Photo of Dr. Nadia Powell, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/969c86ad-bd6f-446a-bc87-e89198cdc2d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nadia Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wylie, TX 75098
Accepting New Patients. Our Psychiatric Providers are experienced in diagnosing & treating mental illness. We utilize the best clinical psychotherapy and psychopharmacology practices to maximize wellness. The practice focuses on psychiatric consultation, therapeutic modalities, and medication management.
Accepting New Patients. Our Psychiatric Providers are experienced in diagnosing & treating mental illness. We utilize the best clinical psychotherapy and psychopharmacology practices to maximize wellness. The practice focuses on psychiatric consultation, therapeutic modalities, and medication management.
See more therapy options for Rowlett
Nearby Searches for Rowlett
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Rowlett, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Rowlett, TX who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Depression |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Rowlett, TX see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Rowlett?
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.