Psychiatrists in Katy, TX
![Photo of Lynda Parker - Dr Lynda Parker - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c175089-8d09-45ed-bb4a-97776fe217cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
![Photo of Elizabeth Macshadiya, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc0aab2c-413a-4e4b-a5a0-ce3924a30f49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Macshadiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, NM, and WA.
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, NM, and WA.
![Photo of Nadia Bening - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry - Katy, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d106e50a-8281-4d12-849a-eb9af1563d20/1/320x400.png)
Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry - Katy
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77493
Not accepting new clients
If you are suffering from medication-resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD, a combination of talk therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be the answer for you. For many people, antidepressants do not fully relieve the symptoms or cause too many side effects, and it can become very difficult to go through multiple medications that do not seem to work. After failed medication attempts, you are eligible to be treated with TMS and therapy together. Call our Specialists to learn more about your options.
If you are suffering from medication-resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD, a combination of talk therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be the answer for you. For many people, antidepressants do not fully relieve the symptoms or cause too many side effects, and it can become very difficult to go through multiple medications that do not seem to work. After failed medication attempts, you are eligible to be treated with TMS and therapy together. Call our Specialists to learn more about your options.
![Photo of Amy Azih, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee5bd1f6-68b1-478b-98a3-a5d7bfc8f657/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We're thrilled to announce that we have same-week appointment slots open for new patients seeking virtual medication management and therapy services across the great state of Texas. You could be on your way to improved mental health as soon as this week with our adept Psychiatric Physician Assistant. Our method is all-encompassing, considering the mind, body, and spirit in our care. We blend medication, supplements, and therapy to deliver a comprehensive care plan. Our solutions are versatile, anchored in scientific evidence, and aimed at helping you conquer your goals.
Welcome! We're thrilled to announce that we have same-week appointment slots open for new patients seeking virtual medication management and therapy services across the great state of Texas. You could be on your way to improved mental health as soon as this week with our adept Psychiatric Physician Assistant. Our method is all-encompassing, considering the mind, body, and spirit in our care. We blend medication, supplements, and therapy to deliver a comprehensive care plan. Our solutions are versatile, anchored in scientific evidence, and aimed at helping you conquer your goals.
![Photo of Odiri Akushe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fba5acf-eb76-40cc-aebb-6fe5f9f9f1df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am a board certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I received my Masters from the University of Texas, my DNP from Frontier University and have been practicing for 9 years. I help ages from 10 and 100yrs old who is struggling with all manner of mental health condition including but not limited to Bipolar, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, BPD, Mood Disorder, Eating Disorder, career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
Hello, I am a board certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I received my Masters from the University of Texas, my DNP from Frontier University and have been practicing for 9 years. I help ages from 10 and 100yrs old who is struggling with all manner of mental health condition including but not limited to Bipolar, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, BPD, Mood Disorder, Eating Disorder, career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
![Photo of Randall Wade McIntyre - Dr Randall McIntyre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86cb8779-716f-477f-8c79-ac5c72ba656d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Randall McIntyre has been practicing Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in the Austin area for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA- biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School-Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residencies in General and Child Psychiatry at UTHSC-Houston. He is doubly Boarded in Child and Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Randall McIntyre has been practicing Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in the Austin area for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA- biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School-Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residencies in General and Child Psychiatry at UTHSC-Houston. He is doubly Boarded in Child and Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
![Photo of Edmund Munde, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/344ea1b1-8305-4bf6-b66a-bd673ad23334/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edmund Munde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We are accepting new patients with appointments available within a week. If you're overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life changes, stressful events, or substance use, you're not alone. We provide guidance for healing and self-discovery through a holistic approach that addresses symptoms and underlying causes. We use evidence-based approach to treat our patients. At PHC, we treat conditions like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders.
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We are accepting new patients with appointments available within a week. If you're overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life changes, stressful events, or substance use, you're not alone. We provide guidance for healing and self-discovery through a holistic approach that addresses symptoms and underlying causes. We use evidence-based approach to treat our patients. At PHC, we treat conditions like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders.
![Photo of Omolola Oloyede, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a71078d6-fa1f-4d1a-bf60-77e0776c6010/1/320x400.jpeg)
Omolola Oloyede
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
NOW accepting new clients from all over TEXAS! Are you ever wondering if what you're experiencing is typical? Perhaps you are puzzled by your forgetfulness, struggle to concentrate, or find yourself easily distracted. Maybe getting out of bed in the morning feels like a chore, you lack motivation to engage in life, or you experience unexplained tearfulness. Do you find it difficult to sleep at night, waking up multiple times and feeling exhausted the next day? Have you faced trauma that leaves you feeling anxious and on edge? You don't have to navigate these difficulties by yourself.
NOW accepting new clients from all over TEXAS! Are you ever wondering if what you're experiencing is typical? Perhaps you are puzzled by your forgetfulness, struggle to concentrate, or find yourself easily distracted. Maybe getting out of bed in the morning feels like a chore, you lack motivation to engage in life, or you experience unexplained tearfulness. Do you find it difficult to sleep at night, waking up multiple times and feeling exhausted the next day? Have you faced trauma that leaves you feeling anxious and on edge? You don't have to navigate these difficulties by yourself.
![Photo of Dr. Sireesha Chimata, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea00a349-5d46-44b6-a9b1-24721ab37223/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sireesha Chimata understands that mental health is complex and can be daunting for patients and their families. Dr. Chimata wants her patients to gain stability and be at peace. She uses an evidence-based approach to therapy.
Dr. Sireesha Chimata understands that mental health is complex and can be daunting for patients and their families. Dr. Chimata wants her patients to gain stability and be at peace. She uses an evidence-based approach to therapy.
![Photo of Careen Tetuh, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03dd24b1-c447-45d4-80af-297167e67e26/2/320x400.jpeg)
A compassionate and empathetic Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of comprehensive experience in health care, providing wellness and mental health management for a variety of populations.
A compassionate and empathetic Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of comprehensive experience in health care, providing wellness and mental health management for a variety of populations.
![Photo of Olaide Akinyinka - The Renewed Mind Behavioral Health and Wellness , NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b7957d-d068-4dc2-96ad-eda4a4f5c7c1/1/320x400.png)
The Renewed Mind Behavioral Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
My name Olaide Akinyinka, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 8 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey! I treat teens, young adult and elderly population with a focus of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. I believe in a collaborative approach. I specialize in medication management. I am dedicated to helping clients optimize their mental health by developing a collaborative partnership with clients and tailoring treatment to meet specific needs.
My name Olaide Akinyinka, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 8 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey! I treat teens, young adult and elderly population with a focus of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. I believe in a collaborative approach. I specialize in medication management. I am dedicated to helping clients optimize their mental health by developing a collaborative partnership with clients and tailoring treatment to meet specific needs.
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![Photo of Dr. Adenike Adigun, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3129539f-2700-44c3-8b10-bbc17d669b93/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Adenike Adigun is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and works with diverse groups of individuals and their families to bring meaningful and positive change into their lives. Dr. Adigun diagnoses and treats mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ADD, ODD, and autism spectrum disorder. She provides a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to assess, stabilize, and empathically treat patients. Dr. Adigun uses evidence-based psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatments.
Dr. Adenike Adigun is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and works with diverse groups of individuals and their families to bring meaningful and positive change into their lives. Dr. Adigun diagnoses and treats mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ADD, ODD, and autism spectrum disorder. She provides a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to assess, stabilize, and empathically treat patients. Dr. Adigun uses evidence-based psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatments.
![Photo of Adedamola Adefioye, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83fb588d-f1a0-4b43-93ac-c0ee2a3b18c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adedamola Adefioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494 (Online Only)
Adedamola "Ade" Adefioye is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 8 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field. She manages and treats adolescents and adults with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sleep disorders.
Adedamola "Ade" Adefioye is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 8 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field. She manages and treats adolescents and adults with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sleep disorders.
![Photo of Andrea Y Carter - Holistic Health Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4b4aaae-7c0f-4ef6-8b50-acde7b53940e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Health Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494 (Online Only)
Andrea Yoshiko Carter is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, childhood trauma, and bipolar disorder. Andrea has received training in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and is certified in brainspotting.
Andrea Yoshiko Carter is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, childhood trauma, and bipolar disorder. Andrea has received training in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and is certified in brainspotting.
![Photo of Mercy Osaghae - Alpha Health Psychiatry LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36da8bc3-2d07-43a5-b94f-4518b9e8503c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Health Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
Alpha Health Psychiatry believed that clients with mental and behavioral challenges are a special population who needs patient-centered, informed, compassionate, quality, and professional care to improve care outcome. We see the clients as partners in care who need to be heard. We believe that a combination of therapy, medication, diet, exercise, life coaching, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person’s mental and overall health leading to optimal physical and mental health and more purposeful life. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!
Alpha Health Psychiatry believed that clients with mental and behavioral challenges are a special population who needs patient-centered, informed, compassionate, quality, and professional care to improve care outcome. We see the clients as partners in care who need to be heard. We believe that a combination of therapy, medication, diet, exercise, life coaching, and personal goals are all integral parts of a person’s mental and overall health leading to optimal physical and mental health and more purposeful life. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!
![Photo of Ifeoma Maureen Ukachukwu, DNP, , FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3b46168-795b-4971-be98-0a158b082b47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ifeoma Maureen Ukachukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
Have you found yourself overwhelmed after taking care of everything and everyone else’s needs instead of your own? Do you feel frustrated trying to balance your life and relationships with work and other important obligations? Have you begun to feel that nothing you do is ever good enough? Has this imbalance ever started to deprive you of sleep, anxiety, depression, or even overuse of alcohol and substances? If so, you are not alone and I can help. You will receive a comfortable empathetic session where we will work together to find healthy options to address your concerns.
Have you found yourself overwhelmed after taking care of everything and everyone else’s needs instead of your own? Do you feel frustrated trying to balance your life and relationships with work and other important obligations? Have you begun to feel that nothing you do is ever good enough? Has this imbalance ever started to deprive you of sleep, anxiety, depression, or even overuse of alcohol and substances? If so, you are not alone and I can help. You will receive a comfortable empathetic session where we will work together to find healthy options to address your concerns.
![Photo of Claudine Onsongo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12f57cc3-1058-4767-95e5-5510c70a138d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Claudine Onsongo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
Dr. Claudine Onsongo is a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP-BC) with over 10 years of providing compassionate and effective care in variety of healthcare settings. My goal is to work together with you for an ideal treatment plan.
Dr. Claudine Onsongo is a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP-BC) with over 10 years of providing compassionate and effective care in variety of healthcare settings. My goal is to work together with you for an ideal treatment plan.
![Photo of Dr. Nadia Anne McFarlane, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5014f345-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I then completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I am Board Certified in General, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I then completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I am Board Certified in General, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
![Photo of Rafael D. Guerrero, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bedcebb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I love my job and count myself blessed to be able to help others find the healing and help that they are often looking for when struggling with the issues of depression, anxiety, problems with mood and ADD/ADHD. All of theses can have a huge impact on our daily lives, in our marriages and at school. I use medication with supportive therapy to help you achieve resolution of these and other issues.
I love my job and count myself blessed to be able to help others find the healing and help that they are often looking for when struggling with the issues of depression, anxiety, problems with mood and ADD/ADHD. All of theses can have a huge impact on our daily lives, in our marriages and at school. I use medication with supportive therapy to help you achieve resolution of these and other issues.
![Photo of Nanu A Ogunyoku, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a19dfd29-493a-4cb9-aaf3-812ebb92e8c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nanu A Ogunyoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494 (Online Only)
I believe in dealing with the patient as a whole when it comes to depression, anxiety, trauma , mood disorders, PTSD, and sleep problems. We are currently accepting New Telehealth Patients from Colorado, Nevada and Texas. We will work with you to make sure you get the best care possible.
I believe in dealing with the patient as a whole when it comes to depression, anxiety, trauma , mood disorders, PTSD, and sleep problems. We are currently accepting New Telehealth Patients from Colorado, Nevada and Texas. We will work with you to make sure you get the best care possible.
See more therapy options for Katy
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Katy, TX
80+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Katy, TX who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Medication Management |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Katy, TX see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Katy?
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.