Psychiatrists in Plano, TX
![Photo of Ahmed Montaser, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9d94f2a-f739-4fc5-87b9-7a8d6f018f3a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Ahmed Montaser is Dual- Board Certified by the ABPN (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology) in both General Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, with more than 15 years of clinical experience. Dr Montaser has lived in different parts of the world including the US, UK and Middle East. He has worked with patients from different cultural backgrounds and in a wide variety of clinical settings. He is bilingual in English and Arabic.
Dr Ahmed Montaser is Dual- Board Certified by the ABPN (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology) in both General Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, with more than 15 years of clinical experience. Dr Montaser has lived in different parts of the world including the US, UK and Middle East. He has worked with patients from different cultural backgrounds and in a wide variety of clinical settings. He is bilingual in English and Arabic.
I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in screening, diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders in pediatric, adolescent, adult, and elderly. I believe in a multi-faceted comprehensive, evidence-based, and holistic approach. I strive to include in a treatment plan, a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes for the optimal result. I bring compassion, empathy, dedication, & holistic caring to your healing process.
I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in screening, diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders in pediatric, adolescent, adult, and elderly. I believe in a multi-faceted comprehensive, evidence-based, and holistic approach. I strive to include in a treatment plan, a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes for the optimal result. I bring compassion, empathy, dedication, & holistic caring to your healing process.
![Photo of Jay Italiya - Mosaic Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f5a315e-c7b1-440b-b984-08258b4cddfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mosaic Behavioral Health is a cornerstone of mental health treatment in this community. Whether you're struggling with mood issues, grief, relationship conflict, or managing a life transition, we are here to help you along the way by providing support and guidance.
Mosaic Behavioral Health is a cornerstone of mental health treatment in this community. Whether you're struggling with mood issues, grief, relationship conflict, or managing a life transition, we are here to help you along the way by providing support and guidance.
![Photo of Kourtney Ruff, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/894f5aa7-355e-4aa9-aa3f-1fec6d86331c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a physician assistant and have been providing mental health services for 1 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see individuals and I address autism spectrum disorder, career transitions, eating disorders, insomnia, and relationship counseling.
I am a physician assistant and have been providing mental health services for 1 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see individuals and I address autism spectrum disorder, career transitions, eating disorders, insomnia, and relationship counseling.
![Photo of Joyce Mwaniki - Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70e36d37-b7f4-4ac4-b86f-7a64c80463df/5/320x400.jpeg)
Splendid Hope Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.
Joyce Mwaniki is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a doctoral degree in nursing practice and from the University of Texas in Arlington with a master’s degree in psychiatric/mental health. She is trained to assess, diagnose & treat children, adolescents, and adults with mental and behavioral disorders.
![Photo of Jean Osas Awosoga - Inspire Mental Health Solutions, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06752196-c35b-4924-b3be-b7b8d8458be7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inspire Mental Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Jean Awosoga, PMHNP-BC. A graduate of Walden University with a master's degree in mental health nursing. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of clinical experience in nursing. I am very passionate about patient care, safety, well-being, and patient's privacy. I always keeps in mind the personalization and uniqueness of every patient.
Jean Awosoga, PMHNP-BC. A graduate of Walden University with a master's degree in mental health nursing. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of clinical experience in nursing. I am very passionate about patient care, safety, well-being, and patient's privacy. I always keeps in mind the personalization and uniqueness of every patient.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha - Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/744ccff8-334a-41fb-93b6-f4ed5330db23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
![Photo of Paresh Atu Jaini, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b02cd607-3975-4ced-abb0-a98bc53298e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm Dr. Jaini, a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in screening, diagnosing, preventing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults.
Hi! I'm Dr. Jaini, a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in screening, diagnosing, preventing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Chelsea Dickson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ee944db-ba90-48d6-8b78-2c20f2cd956b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am born and raised in Texas and have been in the nursing field since 2011. I have experience in various areas including Pre-op, PACU, Med-Surg, OR and ER.
I am born and raised in Texas and have been in the nursing field since 2011. I have experience in various areas including Pre-op, PACU, Med-Surg, OR and ER.
![Photo of Humaira Khalid, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6b2a9e-5a27-4068-95ac-af92c921478a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Humaira Khalid is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 7 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, office based Opioid treatment with Suboxone/Buprenorphine and other common mental health problems. The clinic also offers esketamine treatment and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services for eligible patients. She accepts various insurances and self-pay patients with ages 15 and above.
Dr. Humaira Khalid is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 7 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, office based Opioid treatment with Suboxone/Buprenorphine and other common mental health problems. The clinic also offers esketamine treatment and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) services for eligible patients. She accepts various insurances and self-pay patients with ages 15 and above.
![Photo of Mary Francis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/102d0ca1-b928-495e-b055-188af528b718/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
15 Second Videos
Funmilola Sijuade
Anita Padilla Weekend Availability
VICCpsychiatry, pllc
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Sameer Veerani
Rhoda Madamombe - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
PsychEase Psychiatry
Ronil Shah
Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry of Dallas - We Are Open!
Dr Lynda Parker- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Behavioral and Mental Health Awareness PLLC
F Matthew Johnson
Suparna Basu
Regency Psychiatric Services LLC
![Photo of Cherylonda Ramzy, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9c1e15d-0a29-4b34-94c5-ef2cdd934169/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cherylonda Ramzy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Cherylonda Ramzy is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington with honors. She is a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years experience in healthcare treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. Mrs. Ramzy has a special interest and is adept in treating many psychiatric illnesses. Cherylonda is passionate about providing warm, patient-centered and compassionate psychiatric care. She has very strong clinical skills and works with her patients as a team to achieve the best outcomes.
Cherylonda Ramzy is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington with honors. She is a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years experience in healthcare treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations. Mrs. Ramzy has a special interest and is adept in treating many psychiatric illnesses. Cherylonda is passionate about providing warm, patient-centered and compassionate psychiatric care. She has very strong clinical skills and works with her patients as a team to achieve the best outcomes.
![Photo of Crystal Akunne, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7535b2a-0563-410a-982c-a21b6274824b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am driven by a profound passion for mental wellness and an unwavering commitment to fostering positive change within the mental health community. With extensive experience in diverse mental health settings, including inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient clinics, I have consistently delivered high-quality care. My dedication lies in providing compassionate, holistic care that significantly influences patient's lives in a holistic manner.
I am driven by a profound passion for mental wellness and an unwavering commitment to fostering positive change within the mental health community. With extensive experience in diverse mental health settings, including inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient clinics, I have consistently delivered high-quality care. My dedication lies in providing compassionate, holistic care that significantly influences patient's lives in a holistic manner.
![Photo of Philip David Korenman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/470ab0b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, and have been practicing in North Dallas and Plano for over 30 years. My specialty is mood disorders (including Bipolar Disorder), but I also treat anxiety disorders, eating disorders, ADD/ ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship and situational stress (including gender issues), and virtually any other situations that need professional consultation. While not an Addictions Psychiatrist, I have treated alcohol and substance use disorders for my entire career. Many substance use issues benefit from medication judiciously prescribed to assist in preventing cravings or relapse behaviors or to treat co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, and have been practicing in North Dallas and Plano for over 30 years. My specialty is mood disorders (including Bipolar Disorder), but I also treat anxiety disorders, eating disorders, ADD/ ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship and situational stress (including gender issues), and virtually any other situations that need professional consultation. While not an Addictions Psychiatrist, I have treated alcohol and substance use disorders for my entire career. Many substance use issues benefit from medication judiciously prescribed to assist in preventing cravings or relapse behaviors or to treat co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
Making the decision to seek a psychiatrist is not always easy and can take some time. I'm glad that you are taking the step to work on your mental health. I take a collaborative, patient centered and evidence-based approach when treating my patients. My goal is to empower patients to better understand their mental health, advocate for themselves and improve their quality of life. I have a special interest in working with pregnant and post-partum patients but also see patients who are not pregnant or post partum.
Making the decision to seek a psychiatrist is not always easy and can take some time. I'm glad that you are taking the step to work on your mental health. I take a collaborative, patient centered and evidence-based approach when treating my patients. My goal is to empower patients to better understand their mental health, advocate for themselves and improve their quality of life. I have a special interest in working with pregnant and post-partum patients but also see patients who are not pregnant or post partum.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa5de3a3-8ba4-48ec-8b73-75f93ab6263e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephanie Ukoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
![Photo of Satish Narayan, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83a01a5a-ccd1-46e5-98ce-15aafd8326da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Satish D. Narayan is a physician with 18 years of experience providing psychiatric services. He currently holds a position as the Medical Director of the Partial Hospitalization Program at Carrollton Springs and has been in private practice since 2008. He received his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College in 1990. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Temple University Hospital in 1998 and became certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2000. He has a professional membership with the Texas Medical Association.
Dr. Satish D. Narayan is a physician with 18 years of experience providing psychiatric services. He currently holds a position as the Medical Director of the Partial Hospitalization Program at Carrollton Springs and has been in private practice since 2008. He received his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College in 1990. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Temple University Hospital in 1998 and became certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2000. He has a professional membership with the Texas Medical Association.
![Photo of Thanh Phan, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0970513-9000-4a01-8da8-4972eb43fc60/2/320x400.png)
I am specialized in a wide range of mental health disorders including: depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, sleep-wake disorders, bipolar-related disorders, schizophrenia spectrum, and psychotic disorders. I also set up my practice to serve Vietnamese clients who are in need of a Vietnamese spoken mental health provider.
I am specialized in a wide range of mental health disorders including: depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, sleep-wake disorders, bipolar-related disorders, schizophrenia spectrum, and psychotic disorders. I also set up my practice to serve Vietnamese clients who are in need of a Vietnamese spoken mental health provider.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e290768a-60f7-4f1c-85ba-f69ba952d64d/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Drew Edward Murray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7488614c-8fcf-47a1-b269-c8f44973de6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
See more therapy options for Plano
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Plano, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in Plano, TX who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Medication Management |
68% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Plano, TX see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
36% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Plano?
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.