Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
Camille Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75254 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed due to persistent symptoms or the inability to navigate life’s demands? Are you someone who is struggling with mental health challenges but is also motivated to participate in their treatment journey actively? You may present with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or trauma-related conditions. You could face difficulties managing daily stressors, maintaining relationships, and functioning effectively at work or school. I am well-positioned to help you by providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your situation.
Do you feel overwhelmed due to persistent symptoms or the inability to navigate life’s demands? Are you someone who is struggling with mental health challenges but is also motivated to participate in their treatment journey actively? You may present with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or trauma-related conditions. You could face difficulties managing daily stressors, maintaining relationships, and functioning effectively at work or school. I am well-positioned to help you by providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your situation.
With my experience as clinician and teacher at the internationally-recognized Menninger Clinic and additional training in psychotherapy, I have special expertise in working with adults who are struggling to change paralyzing, painful or self-defeating patterns of experience, including depression, anxiety, relationship or work problems, low self-esteem and failure to achieve potential. If you prefer psychotherapy with minimal use of medications or if you have complex problems and have tried other treatments without getting well, I may be a good fit for you.
With my experience as clinician and teacher at the internationally-recognized Menninger Clinic and additional training in psychotherapy, I have special expertise in working with adults who are struggling to change paralyzing, painful or self-defeating patterns of experience, including depression, anxiety, relationship or work problems, low self-esteem and failure to achieve potential. If you prefer psychotherapy with minimal use of medications or if you have complex problems and have tried other treatments without getting well, I may be a good fit for you.
Lesli Archibald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in tele-health psychiatry care for adolescents and adults. I can treat clients 13 and up anywhere in Texas. My practice is rooted in patient-centered and trauma-focused care, ensuring a compassionate and personalized approach to mental health. Medication is sometimes needed, but I will never use medication alone. All parts of our brain and mind function on survival and adaptation, which can lead to a variety of mental health issues. Wondering what type of specialist to see? A PMHNP can diagnose, prescribe and provide therapy.
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in tele-health psychiatry care for adolescents and adults. I can treat clients 13 and up anywhere in Texas. My practice is rooted in patient-centered and trauma-focused care, ensuring a compassionate and personalized approach to mental health. Medication is sometimes needed, but I will never use medication alone. All parts of our brain and mind function on survival and adaptation, which can lead to a variety of mental health issues. Wondering what type of specialist to see? A PMHNP can diagnose, prescribe and provide therapy.
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.
Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75220
Violet Ashu, an ANCC board-certified PMHNP-BC, specializes in providing client-centered mental health services using evidence-based, holistic, individualized care to enable clients to achieve a healthy, productive, and positive sense of self. Has experience in psychiatric/medical settings for 16 years. Good mental health is our greatest wealth, but poor mental health makes us more vulnerable to certain physical health issues. Work experience was with Intouch Psychiatry, Meditelecare, and Done Health. Currently with Grow Therapy, ALMA, Headway, Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness, Rula Health, and Texas Health Resources.
Violet Ashu, an ANCC board-certified PMHNP-BC, specializes in providing client-centered mental health services using evidence-based, holistic, individualized care to enable clients to achieve a healthy, productive, and positive sense of self. Has experience in psychiatric/medical settings for 16 years. Good mental health is our greatest wealth, but poor mental health makes us more vulnerable to certain physical health issues. Work experience was with Intouch Psychiatry, Meditelecare, and Done Health. Currently with Grow Therapy, ALMA, Headway, Premier Behavioral Health & Wellness, Rula Health, and Texas Health Resources.
Jhaurel Johnson White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75224 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
My name is Purity Mburu, I am a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner who strives to provide the best-individualized care to my patients. In my 6 years of Nursing, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, and psychiatric emergency settings. My experience in various clinical settings has equipped me with the skill
My name is Purity Mburu, I am a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner who strives to provide the best-individualized care to my patients. In my 6 years of Nursing, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, and psychiatric emergency settings. My experience in various clinical settings has equipped me with the skill
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.
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
At Legion Health, we understand that mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health, looking for both guidance and support on their journey. They seek practical, effective solutions and a personalized approach that recognizes their unique needs. In a safe and collaborative environment, we’ll work together to build resilience and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
At Legion Health, we understand that mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health, looking for both guidance and support on their journey. They seek practical, effective solutions and a personalized approach that recognizes their unique needs. In a safe and collaborative environment, we’ll work together to build resilience and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
As an adult psychiatrist Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I hold a medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and completed a four-year residency in adult psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens. My extensive medical education and training have equipped me with broad experience in mental health care in one of the most diverse counties in the U.S.
As an adult psychiatrist Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I hold a medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York and completed a four-year residency in adult psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens. My extensive medical education and training have equipped me with broad experience in mental health care in one of the most diverse counties in the U.S.
Britton Bahador
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75220
Saturday appointments available. People of all ages and backgrounds reach out for mental health care and treatment for a variety of reasons, including- depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and emotional disturbances as a result of life circumstances. People want to feel understood and supported on their path to finding mental and individual wellness for themselves or their loved ones. Mental health care should be patient, supportive, and a collaborate approach between individual and practitioner and be tailored to each individuals' specific needs.
Saturday appointments available. People of all ages and backgrounds reach out for mental health care and treatment for a variety of reasons, including- depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and emotional disturbances as a result of life circumstances. People want to feel understood and supported on their path to finding mental and individual wellness for themselves or their loved ones. Mental health care should be patient, supportive, and a collaborate approach between individual and practitioner and be tailored to each individuals' specific needs.
15 Second Videos
Jhaurel Johnson White
Jelilat Omowumi Buhari
Behavioral and Mental Health Awareness PLLC
Joy Ede
Sylvia Ogbogu-Nwankwo
Trenice Johnson
Kendall P. Brown
Davonna Wilson
Andrew Trinh
Resilient Mind Psychiatric Services PLLC
Solidbase Behavioral Health
VPP Clinic | Dr. Arif Mirza MD
Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry of Dallas - We Are Open!
Dr. Randall McIntyre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Ronil Shah
Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Eva Kirara
Olivetta Uradu
Oby Nebe
Good Inner-G LLC
Dr Lynda Parker- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Laura Beard
Deborah Solomon
Debbie Weze
Comfort Pokoo
Barbara Reed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Balance Psychiatric Services
Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness
Lawretta Njideka Ezukanma
PsychEase Psychiatry
Lean On Love Psychiatry
Laurel Darlington
VICCpsychiatry, pllc
Ranie Meyer
Danielle Fortingo
Guardian Angels Clinic
Ololade Ekwere
AKADI Mental Health Services
Omolara Oloye-Adelusi
Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC
TelepsychHealth Outpatient Programs
Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC
Funmilola Sijuade
Regency Psychiatric Services LLC
Keyna Omenukor
Within-U Integrative Psychiatry: Tracee Lucas
Melanie Foutz
Nextgen Psychiatry
Krystal Family Psychiatry
Mark Holsey
Alamgir Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75252 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Accepting NEW patients. ONLINE appointments available the SAME-DAY, 7 days a week, including late afternoons, evenings, and nights on both weekdays and weekends. Dr. Alamgir is experienced in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and PTSD. You can contact me directly, and I respond to my patients promptly. To begin the intake process or for questions about my services, send a message (by selecting "Email Us" and providing the requested information).
Accepting NEW patients. ONLINE appointments available the SAME-DAY, 7 days a week, including late afternoons, evenings, and nights on both weekdays and weekends. Dr. Alamgir is experienced in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and PTSD. You can contact me directly, and I respond to my patients promptly. To begin the intake process or for questions about my services, send a message (by selecting "Email Us" and providing the requested information).
LinMed Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
Accepting New Patients- Same-Day Appointment Available! Do you feel extremely sad, empty, or irritable? Have you been feeling like the walls are closing in on you, and there is no way out? Unfortunately, many people who experience these symptoms feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help due to stigma. But this can lead to long-term problems. I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be difficult, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help you.
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.
Dr. Kristin P Solimani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Dealing with mental illness and addiction can be extremely difficult and even more challenging finding consistent mental health care. When it comes to treating mental illness and addiction, there is no one size fits all treatment method. With that in mind, City Psychiatry seeks to personalize treatment to the patient’s mental and physical health needs. At City Psychiatry we understand a comprehensive diagnosis and flexible treatment plan are important to successful recovery
Dealing with mental illness and addiction can be extremely difficult and even more challenging finding consistent mental health care. When it comes to treating mental illness and addiction, there is no one size fits all treatment method. With that in mind, City Psychiatry seeks to personalize treatment to the patient’s mental and physical health needs. At City Psychiatry we understand a comprehensive diagnosis and flexible treatment plan are important to successful recovery
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.
Dr. Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75390 (Online Only)
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
NJ Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
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. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
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. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Jelilat Omowumi Buhari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
400+
Average cost per session
$183
Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX see their clients
54% | Online Only | |
46% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | 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.