Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
![Photo of Natalie Russell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a477b7-6dce-4d78-8702-b80b8a4d22ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Natalie and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Natalie Russell is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her career in mental health in 2013 and has experience in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use. She earned nursing degrees from Morehead State University in Kentucky, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Indiana Wesleyan University. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Natalie and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Natalie Russell is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her career in mental health in 2013 and has experience in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use. She earned nursing degrees from Morehead State University in Kentucky, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Indiana Wesleyan University. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
![Photo of Nestor Ugo - Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a19f0f24-b5c8-4f31-b515-ff52169c4ba4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
At Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc our vision is to treat patients with compassion and respect while providing an individualized treatment plans that meets patient’s outcome. We understand the challenges of daily life event and promote the concept of balanced mindset for patients to see actual results of treatment recommendations. Our team consist of a Psychiatrist, Texas Board and Arizona Board of Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with ANCC certification. We provide appointments and psychiatry services in person or via secured and HIPPA compliant video conference platform.
At Balanced Mind Behavioral Healthcare Inc our vision is to treat patients with compassion and respect while providing an individualized treatment plans that meets patient’s outcome. We understand the challenges of daily life event and promote the concept of balanced mindset for patients to see actual results of treatment recommendations. Our team consist of a Psychiatrist, Texas Board and Arizona Board of Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with ANCC certification. We provide appointments and psychiatry services in person or via secured and HIPPA compliant video conference platform.
![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 Davonna Wilson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3478d706-7938-412c-8003-802abad243f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
![Photo of Jaime Thompson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d3b8a7e-7f61-46af-92b3-7291724bc44a/1/320x400.jpeg)
You feel overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious and depressed. You have trouble getting a good night sleep even though you are exhausted. You find yourself turning to food or alcohol to try to help yourself feel better. You find you are not enjoying your life, and that it has begun to feel like one long to do list.
You feel overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious and depressed. You have trouble getting a good night sleep even though you are exhausted. You find yourself turning to food or alcohol to try to help yourself feel better. You find you are not enjoying your life, and that it has begun to feel like one long to do list.
![Photo of Ayla Jenson Naughton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8a2838e-cec2-4bc4-bbf0-45ab8152cdc0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ayla Jenson Naughton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Hi! I'm Ayla, a board-certified psychiatric provider with ten years of healthcare experience. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. I aim to ensure you feel heard and respected during our sessions. Together we will collaborate on a plan of care that, if needed will include pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions. If you are looking for a mental health teammate, I am in your corner!
Hi! I'm Ayla, a board-certified psychiatric provider with ten years of healthcare experience. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. I aim to ensure you feel heard and respected during our sessions. Together we will collaborate on a plan of care that, if needed will include pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions. If you are looking for a mental health teammate, I am in your corner!
![Photo of Ifeoma Irokwe - Effulgence Psychiatry, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aedc0bc3-c47f-4e43-aa20-ae0f1f09233b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Effulgence Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
![Photo of Kate Okwesa, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5613e83-6402-4803-93de-d677bd794852/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Okwesa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248 (Online Only)
Kate Okwesa is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a positive patient experience while caring for all her patients. She strives to provide holistic, evidence-based care and holds herself to the highest standard of care, taking into consideration all aspects of her patient's health needs.
Kate Okwesa is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a positive patient experience while caring for all her patients. She strives to provide holistic, evidence-based care and holds herself to the highest standard of care, taking into consideration all aspects of her patient's health needs.
![Photo of Richard Brown - In Focus Mental Health PLLC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dae5d7a-31ac-448b-856d-acdb4dd3f21e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
![Photo of Travis W Waltrip, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cc336e7-e561-4af4-ab1c-6aa80a236735/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety with medication management. In addition, I specialize in depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 40 years of clinical experience.
I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety with medication management. In addition, I specialize in depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 40 years of clinical experience.
![Photo of Donavan Scott, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed04fead-19df-480a-be5c-91bb8dae13ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Donavan, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you been feeling down lately? How about feeling like you have been running a marathon but none of your planned tasks have been completed.
Hello, my name is Donavan, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you been feeling down lately? How about feeling like you have been running a marathon but none of your planned tasks have been completed.
15 Second Videos
Eva Kirara
Davonna Wilson
Dr Lynda Parker- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Jhaurel Johnson White
Good Inner-G LLC
Debbie Weze
Laura Beard
Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Oby Nebe
Deborah Solomon
Solidbase Behavioral Health
Dr. Randall McIntyre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Comfort Pokoo
Ronil Shah
Resilient Mind Psychiatric Services PLLC
Joy Ede
Kendall P. Brown
Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry of Dallas - We Are Open!
Behavioral and Mental Health Awareness PLLC
VPP Clinic | Dr. Arif Mirza MD
Trenice Johnson
Lawretta Njideka Ezukanma
Ranie Meyer
PsychEase Psychiatry
TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs
AKADI Mental Health Services
Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness
Lean On Love Psychiatry
Danielle Fortingo
Balance Psychiatric Services
Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC
Healing Garden Psychiatric Services
Caroline Mose
Laurel Darlington
Omolara Oloye-Adelusi
VICCpsychiatry, pllc
Melanie Foutz
Keyna Omenukor
Mark Holsey
Nextgen Psychiatry
Krystal Family Psychiatry
Regency Psychiatric Services LLC
Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC
Funmilola Sijuade
Elizabeth Ssemanda
Texas Mental Health and Wellness Center PLLC
LaChaya Radcliff
Ashley Parker Evans
Step by Step Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije
![Photo of Holly Franke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ce0485a-0895-4d0d-8b89-9fef4ef8b738/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Holly Franke, PMHNP-BC based in Central Texas. I received my Master’s Degree from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for more than 3 years.
Hi, I’m Holly Franke, PMHNP-BC based in Central Texas. I received my Master’s Degree from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for more than 3 years.
![Photo of Njideka Domrufus - Ziks Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4eeede0-cee0-4d01-963d-7fef70f958b5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. NJ Domrufus believes in working one to one with each patient to provide expert medical treatment, guidance and care tailored specifically for their health concerns. She conducts psychiatric assessments and makes recommendations for treatment which often includes psychiatric medications and brief solution focused therapy.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Nurse (APN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. NJ Domrufus believes in working one to one with each patient to provide expert medical treatment, guidance and care tailored specifically for their health concerns. She conducts psychiatric assessments and makes recommendations for treatment which often includes psychiatric medications and brief solution focused therapy.
![Photo of Hanna Araya - AddisMind PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/443a81bb-acfd-4b30-8358-26c5fd6aaee9/1/320x400.jpeg)
AddisMind PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.
Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.
![Photo of Lynda Parker - Dr Lynda Parker- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a606a263-c3aa-4d02-b5eb-c9200c627b45/1/320x400.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 Dr. Shalini Shetty, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c309bb9-1dce-4cb4-a837-209347fe2e10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Shalini Shetty is dual Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as General psychiatry. Dr. Shetty uses a customized approach to tailor the treatment care plans to fit each individual’s needs in a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. At Nurturing Minds Psychiatry, we strongly believe in shared decision making which is a key component of patient-centered care. There is no universal approach to behavioral health. We believe that each individual is unique.. We use evidence-based approach to meet an individual’s needs.
Dr Shalini Shetty is dual Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as General psychiatry. Dr. Shetty uses a customized approach to tailor the treatment care plans to fit each individual’s needs in a psychologically safe space that respects your privacy and openness to vulnerability. At Nurturing Minds Psychiatry, we strongly believe in shared decision making which is a key component of patient-centered care. There is no universal approach to behavioral health. We believe that each individual is unique.. We use evidence-based approach to meet an individual’s needs.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b069587d-3dc2-4a94-9593-4f4e77e200c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
![Photo of Mabel Nwachukwu, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d48456f6-88a0-4322-be3f-f9a99698aa0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mabel Nwachukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Mab Nwachukwu is a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with many years of experience. She works with clients 18 years and older, helping them to achieve their recovery goals while treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, fatigue, women's issues, and much more.
Mab Nwachukwu is a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with many years of experience. She works with clients 18 years and older, helping them to achieve their recovery goals while treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, fatigue, women's issues, and much more.
![Photo of Hanna Araya - AddisMind PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1c346a3-062d-4b56-a0aa-370cc1ac151b/1/320x400.jpeg)
AddisMind PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.
Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.
![Photo of Tiffany Flood - TeleNP Health, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1505d12a-8ba8-4dac-8bbd-838e0a4d0c72/2/320x400.jpeg)
TeleNP Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety or depression as a secondary issue related to chronic diseases like hypothyroidism, hypertension, and gastrointestinal problems. They seek a provider who can comprehensively address both their psychological and somatic concerns, ensuring a holistic approach to their overall well-being.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety or depression as a secondary issue related to chronic diseases like hypothyroidism, hypertension, and gastrointestinal problems. They seek a provider who can comprehensively address both their psychological and somatic concerns, ensuring a holistic approach to their overall well-being.
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
400+
Average cost per session
$185
Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas?
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.