Psychiatrists in Waco, TX
![Photo of Katherine Tharp, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e783bfe-a829-415d-bc84-1100fa3410a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
Dr. Jean Dortilus at AMD Medical PLLC Behavioral Health Services is a well-trained physican who has been practicing medicine since 1994. He graduated medical school from the School of Medicine and Pharmacy of the State University of Haiti. He is Board-certified in General Psychiatry (2011) and in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2012) by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). He did his residency training in General Psychiatry and his fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Harlem Hospital/Columbia University in New York City.
Dr. Jean Dortilus at AMD Medical PLLC Behavioral Health Services is a well-trained physican who has been practicing medicine since 1994. He graduated medical school from the School of Medicine and Pharmacy of the State University of Haiti. He is Board-certified in General Psychiatry (2011) and in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2012) by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). He did his residency training in General Psychiatry and his fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Harlem Hospital/Columbia University in New York City.
![Photo of Colleen Ducklow, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22ea1c88-4465-415f-8078-e789d7def756/1/320x400.png)
Colleen Ducklow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76708 (Online Only)
Welcome! I work with adolescents and adults experiencing mental health illnesses. I approach care holistically, and want to make sure that you feel heard. Sometimes, mental illness can feel isolating, but I am here to help you reach your goals and fulfill your daily activities. Telemedicine is a great modality to fit your busy schedule! You can book an appointment with me on Headway.
Welcome! I work with adolescents and adults experiencing mental health illnesses. I approach care holistically, and want to make sure that you feel heard. Sometimes, mental illness can feel isolating, but I am here to help you reach your goals and fulfill your daily activities. Telemedicine is a great modality to fit your busy schedule! You can book an appointment with me on Headway.
![Photo of Marguerite “Peggy “ Addison, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37e0becc-fbcd-4524-b1cb-80b509879ea3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marguerite “Peggy “ Addison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76712
Not accepting new clients
I see patients ages 12 and over .... General Psychiatry. Book online by going to www.togetherwaco.com. Experienced, qualified, compassionate, psychiatric provider for medication management Be seen in person or by tele-health. Marguerite “Peggy” Addison is a Family Psychiatric – Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and is Board Certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center She treats mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia , ETOH issues, along with a special interest in eating disorders and perinatal issues. Let's partner to allow you to reach your optimal functioning.
I see patients ages 12 and over .... General Psychiatry. Book online by going to www.togetherwaco.com. Experienced, qualified, compassionate, psychiatric provider for medication management Be seen in person or by tele-health. Marguerite “Peggy” Addison is a Family Psychiatric – Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and is Board Certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center She treats mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia , ETOH issues, along with a special interest in eating disorders and perinatal issues. Let's partner to allow you to reach your optimal functioning.
![Photo of Ashley Parker Evans, MHA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/734231b2-f229-471a-be9a-7cd69180d3c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Parker Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701
At PsychLife Mental Wellness, we specialize in caring for those experiencing symptoms of mood disorder (anxiety, bipolar, depression) as well as trauma related disorders. You desire a life that's filled with joy and love without being stressed about the symptoms of a mental illness and we're here to help you do just that! Come see us today so you can start living your BEST life!
At PsychLife Mental Wellness, we specialize in caring for those experiencing symptoms of mood disorder (anxiety, bipolar, depression) as well as trauma related disorders. You desire a life that's filled with joy and love without being stressed about the symptoms of a mental illness and we're here to help you do just that! Come see us today so you can start living your BEST life!
Doctor Ronald Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76708
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
![Photo of Ijeoma Ononenyi, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76c53ca8-95a4-4991-b524-defcf8fb0520/2/320x400.png)
Ijeoma Ononenyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
![Photo of Ashkan Soltan - MindWell Urgent Care, MD, FAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2c56817-6ab0-4f49-a648-62f969d97310/2/320x400.jpeg)
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
![Photo of Olubunmi Oladosu - Zenith Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e717f67-bc22-4000-956b-9fd460dd8773/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zenith Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter.
![Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26962782-6071-4d15-b9ea-0d9d801dad9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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 Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cea4c5fb-075e-4110-a4d6-fd5c7572904e/1/320x400.png)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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 Allen Cortado, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MPP-C, PhD-S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3156bd3-5655-445e-9836-11d7259951df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allen Cortado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MPP-C, PhD-S
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76798 (Online Only)
I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner, and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to be considered as a potential healthcare provider for you. I hold certifications as both a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) and an FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner). Master Psychopharmacology Certified from NEI. These additional certifications enable me to offer a wide range of clinical expertise to address both your mental health and family practice needs.
I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner, and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to be considered as a potential healthcare provider for you. I hold certifications as both a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) and an FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner). Master Psychopharmacology Certified from NEI. These additional certifications enable me to offer a wide range of clinical expertise to address both your mental health and family practice needs.
![Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7199853-4140-4855-8224-db019b3777ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
![Photo of Mistee J Jefferies, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6c4de87-631a-4f7c-a972-850c33f65f06/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.
I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.
![Photo of Anita Padilla Weekend Availability, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CIMHP, ADHDCSP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c85e0c48-4d29-4f58-9a7c-c5f63374f1a1/1/320x400.png)
Anita Padilla Weekend Availability
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CIMHP, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76704 (Online Only)
Thank you for your consideration as your next provider. I appreciate that it is difficult to find the right fit for your mental health concerns. One of the main concerns I have heard over the years is that patients do not feel heard when they reach out for help. I have carried this with me throughout my career. I spend the time to truly listen and understand your concerns. I work with you to identify a treatment plan you are comfortable with. The outcomes are better if you trust your provider and you work together to achieve remission.
Thank you for your consideration as your next provider. I appreciate that it is difficult to find the right fit for your mental health concerns. One of the main concerns I have heard over the years is that patients do not feel heard when they reach out for help. I have carried this with me throughout my career. I spend the time to truly listen and understand your concerns. I work with you to identify a treatment plan you are comfortable with. The outcomes are better if you trust your provider and you work together to achieve remission.
![Photo of Dr. Amanda Kennedy, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb22f3ab-de78-4be3-8a9e-c30b7abb967f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amanda Kennedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
![Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543624fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76706 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
![Photo of Navdip Kaur, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a55b6c5-bad9-40e7-a505-82d43b4b3ad3/1/320x400.png)
Navdip Kaur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76702 (Online Only)
Peace Way psychiatrist will reach you where you are because your comfort and safety is our priority. One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. I am here with you in this journey which will be full of miracles and accomplishments. Peace Way team will bring your smiles and success back to your lives that you deserve. Your stories will inspire others and Peace Way Psychiatrist will advocate her clients recognizing strength in the aftermath of their emotional recovery.
Peace Way psychiatrist will reach you where you are because your comfort and safety is our priority. One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. I am here with you in this journey which will be full of miracles and accomplishments. Peace Way team will bring your smiles and success back to your lives that you deserve. Your stories will inspire others and Peace Way Psychiatrist will advocate her clients recognizing strength in the aftermath of their emotional recovery.
![Photo of Stacy A Hobbs - Caprock Alliance for Mental Wellness, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea6c8669-c02b-45f5-bdcb-067af1b0da45/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caprock Alliance for Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710 (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for most of my adult life. I have also been an emergency room registered nurse. I have seen the needs of all kinds of people in our communities. I became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner because I want to meet the needs of people that suffer from mood instability, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and ADHD. This is why I chose Telemedicine to deliver services. Too many people in rural communities don't have access. Even people in cities don't have enough access. Telemedicine is easy and confidential. No more going to sit in a waiting room. I AM ABLE TO SEE ANY TEXAS RESIDENT!
I have worked in the mental health field for most of my adult life. I have also been an emergency room registered nurse. I have seen the needs of all kinds of people in our communities. I became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner because I want to meet the needs of people that suffer from mood instability, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and ADHD. This is why I chose Telemedicine to deliver services. Too many people in rural communities don't have access. Even people in cities don't have enough access. Telemedicine is easy and confidential. No more going to sit in a waiting room. I AM ABLE TO SEE ANY TEXAS RESIDENT!
![Photo of Ayisha Sanda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9358d806-5e14-458c-9600-e7a2b7aa010d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more .Call -503-662-9385 to book an appointment today. We provide ADHD testing.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more .Call -503-662-9385 to book an appointment today. We provide ADHD testing.
See more therapy options for Waco
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Waco, TX
20+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Waco, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | ADHD |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Waco, TX see their clients
56% | Online Only | |
44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Waco?
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.