Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX
![Photo of Chevelle Brudey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488ffc89-b982-4b66-9648-42dd95278d01/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated psychiatrist who enjoys working with adults of all ages. With my unique background in internal medicine, as well as extensive training in the treatment of older adults and eating disorders, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. I take a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of mind and body, allowing me to provide thoughtful and comprehensive treatment recommendations. I empower patients to actively participate in their treatment journey. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or a loved one, I am here to help you to navigate your mental health journey with experience and compassion.
I am a dedicated psychiatrist who enjoys working with adults of all ages. With my unique background in internal medicine, as well as extensive training in the treatment of older adults and eating disorders, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. I take a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of mind and body, allowing me to provide thoughtful and comprehensive treatment recommendations. I empower patients to actively participate in their treatment journey. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or a loved one, I am here to help you to navigate your mental health journey with experience and compassion.
![Photo of Deborah Solomon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f0fcc9-00e8-4d5a-ae5f-4d5f121249c1/1/320x400.png)
Deborah Solomon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Deborah Solomon is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 3 years of experience delivering care focused on the body-mind-social wellbeing of individuals ages 16 and older.
Deborah Solomon is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 3 years of experience delivering care focused on the body-mind-social wellbeing of individuals ages 16 and older.
![Photo of Ashkan Soltan - MindWell Urgent Care, MD, FAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adbb7300-0ae6-4ec4-81d5-04da80592ec8/3/320x400.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 Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr. Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99e2b492-a66d-4fb8-a51a-fb3161362bf8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of Edith Kanyongo - Texas in Harmony Psychiatric Group LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6be0cebf-a7f1-48de-bc33-d7bb9b3aac8c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Texas in Harmony Psychiatric Group LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -, BC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048
Texas in Harmony Psychiatric Group is a group of doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, working in collaboration with a psychiatrist. All providers are board certified as child, adolescent and adult mental health specialists. The providers have more than 6 years of experience in Mental health. Our providers have worked at community mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, crisis centers. They all have vast experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, DMDD, ODD and other psychiatric disorders.
Texas in Harmony Psychiatric Group is a group of doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, working in collaboration with a psychiatrist. All providers are board certified as child, adolescent and adult mental health specialists. The providers have more than 6 years of experience in Mental health. Our providers have worked at community mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, crisis centers. They all have vast experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, DMDD, ODD and other psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Eva Kirara, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bbf4d45-a944-4354-81b0-c8ed624b1b71/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Eva Kirara, I am a PMHNP-BC serving patients ages 18-65. My professional background of more than 10 years of experience in nursing and medicine offers a wealth of diverse roles in numerous care settings with a concentration in mental health. I firmly believe in collaboration when creating an effective individual treatment plan. This includes mutual trust and respect with the patient and effective communication with other medical providers.
My name is Eva Kirara, I am a PMHNP-BC serving patients ages 18-65. My professional background of more than 10 years of experience in nursing and medicine offers a wealth of diverse roles in numerous care settings with a concentration in mental health. I firmly believe in collaboration when creating an effective individual treatment plan. This includes mutual trust and respect with the patient and effective communication with other medical providers.
![Photo of Aida Dabreo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50674566-d900-4329-af3a-c7cfe9266a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aida provides treatment for adults with depression, anxiety, victims of narcissistic abuse, women's and mens issues, and medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions.
Aida provides treatment for adults with depression, anxiety, victims of narcissistic abuse, women's and mens issues, and medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Emily Rivera, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f47de4f2-3f99-4bdd-ac1d-d0312e21aa0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat children beginning at age 5 through early adulthood. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders including but not limited to anxiety, autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar, depression, disordered eating, gender dysphoria, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis.
I treat children beginning at age 5 through early adulthood. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders including but not limited to anxiety, autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar, depression, disordered eating, gender dysphoria, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis.
![Photo of Rinda Jordan, FPMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468eb75c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric medication management for adults, adolescents, and children. I work closely and collaboratively with my patients, combining a firm grounding in psychiatric medical care with the unshakeable faith that they can find and thrive on their unique strengths and values. My goal is to help my patients meet the challenges they face and enjoy happy, healthy lives.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric medication management for adults, adolescents, and children. I work closely and collaboratively with my patients, combining a firm grounding in psychiatric medical care with the unshakeable faith that they can find and thrive on their unique strengths and values. My goal is to help my patients meet the challenges they face and enjoy happy, healthy lives.
![Photo of Dr. Charles Ho, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2525dc47-0cf8-4383-8824-8807ae5a2d58/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist serving child, adolescent, and adult patients, ages 5-50, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Together, by taking the time to understand your story along with an integrative psychiatric approach, we can address your or your child's mental health challenges more effectively. Please visit my website, charleshomd.com, for more information.
I am a board certified psychiatrist serving child, adolescent, and adult patients, ages 5-50, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Together, by taking the time to understand your story along with an integrative psychiatric approach, we can address your or your child's mental health challenges more effectively. Please visit my website, charleshomd.com, for more information.
![Photo of Dr. Jarrod Tunnell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6b66f1d-1407-410b-8197-f72ccab7277c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
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![Photo of Keyna Omenukor, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6020a6ea-4dcf-477f-8b23-2c1fd4ae274c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keyna Omenukor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
Dr. Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose training and experience have equipped her with the necessary skill to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to optimize health outcomes. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree & Doctorate in addition to her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Brandman University.
Dr. Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose training and experience have equipped her with the necessary skill to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to optimize health outcomes. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree & Doctorate in addition to her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Brandman University.
![Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e911f7d7-3635-4139-bfba-69015b994399/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
![Photo of Fatima Nagaya, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9c20e03-b917-4014-8040-81800c30ac01/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an adult psychiatrist Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I hold a medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and completed a four-year residency in adult psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens. My extensive medical education and training have equipped me with broad experience in mental health care in one of the most diverse counties in the U.S.
As an adult psychiatrist Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I hold a medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and completed a four-year residency in adult psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens. My extensive medical education and training have equipped me with broad experience in mental health care in one of the most diverse counties in the U.S.
![Photo of Kemi Olude, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c8b7503-22ef-4d94-bd6e-362e39d90439/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75051
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS WITHIN A WEEK, WITH FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Providing services that combine traditional approaches (medication management and supportive psychotherapy with evidenced-based practice
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS WITHIN A WEEK, WITH FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Providing services that combine traditional approaches (medication management and supportive psychotherapy with evidenced-based practice
![Photo of Dr. Tanvi Kohli, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9ae8ee1-939f-4bb9-88cc-2bda8c1a7434/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tanvi Kohli is board-certified in general psychiatry and specializes in treating mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders in children and adolescents. Dr. Kohli focuses on psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and utilizes a biopsychosocial approach with patients. She considers the physician-patient relationship a team effort and works collaboratively with patients. Dr. Kohli is committed to providing quality care that is evidence-based and centered around her patients. Treatments include medication management, therapy, and psychoeducation.
Dr. Tanvi Kohli is board-certified in general psychiatry and specializes in treating mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders in children and adolescents. Dr. Kohli focuses on psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and utilizes a biopsychosocial approach with patients. She considers the physician-patient relationship a team effort and works collaboratively with patients. Dr. Kohli is committed to providing quality care that is evidence-based and centered around her patients. Treatments include medication management, therapy, and psychoeducation.
![Photo of Melinda Pitts - A Therapized Life (ATL), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9328db0e-eaf6-462c-af96-8a16ac349071/2/320x400.png)
A Therapized Life (ATL)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with the typical psychiatric healthcare system? Do you often feel like your provider is simply prescribing medications without listening to your concerns? If that has been your experience, then Melinda is the provider for you!
Are you frustrated with the typical psychiatric healthcare system? Do you often feel like your provider is simply prescribing medications without listening to your concerns? If that has been your experience, then Melinda is the provider for you!
![Photo of Dr. Ebere Ejike-Ilechukwu, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d717a74-7394-4e32-9338-81cc6b78c281/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ebere Ejike-Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75116 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. I want to appreciate your courage in taking that initial bold step in seeking help for your mental health needs. Are you or your loved one dealing with crippling effects of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and Insomnia? Have you been waiting for months to get the treatment you deserve for your mental health? Getting an early diagnosis and treatment tailored to you is our ultimate priority. The wait is over because Accessible Psychiatry PLLC is the right place for you.
Hello and welcome. I want to appreciate your courage in taking that initial bold step in seeking help for your mental health needs. Are you or your loved one dealing with crippling effects of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and Insomnia? Have you been waiting for months to get the treatment you deserve for your mental health? Getting an early diagnosis and treatment tailored to you is our ultimate priority. The wait is over because Accessible Psychiatry PLLC is the right place for you.
![Photo of Pearl Ezegrim - McGrim Health, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f192f391-a690-4e1b-af9b-467b841e283c/1/320x400.jpeg)
McGrim Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081 (Online Only)
I'm Pearl Ezegrim, a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating diverse mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care to people of all ages, from toddlers to seniors. With over six years of experience, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and a Master's in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. I am well-versed in managing conditions like ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Alzheimer's, Dementia, and PTSD.
I'm Pearl Ezegrim, a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating diverse mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care to people of all ages, from toddlers to seniors. With over six years of experience, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and a Master's in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. I am well-versed in managing conditions like ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Alzheimer's, Dementia, and PTSD.
![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.
See more therapy options for Dallas County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX
500+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas County, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.