Psychiatrists in Katy, TX
![Photo of Esther Nkwanyuo, PMHNP, , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04aa5508-552c-432a-a121-56c2fac80929/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esther Nkwanyuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494 (Online Only)
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
![Photo of Rebecca Frempong Antwi - Bright Star Behavioral, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ee97397-eb93-4046-8823-313038b181d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bright Star Behavioral
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494 (Online Only)
Welcome and great job reaching this far! I am so glad you have taken the time to visit my site. I believe getting to know you as a person, not just as a patient is an important part of a successful therapeutic alliance. This is a supportive space where you can talk about your emotional and mental health and get important questions about medication answered: What medication is right for me? What will I feel or experience with this medication? How long would I need to take it? Together, we will develop a treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms so you can live life with more stability, ease and balance.
Welcome and great job reaching this far! I am so glad you have taken the time to visit my site. I believe getting to know you as a person, not just as a patient is an important part of a successful therapeutic alliance. This is a supportive space where you can talk about your emotional and mental health and get important questions about medication answered: What medication is right for me? What will I feel or experience with this medication? How long would I need to take it? Together, we will develop a treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms so you can live life with more stability, ease and balance.
![Photo of Omolola Oloyede, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a71078d6-fa1f-4d1a-bf60-77e0776c6010/1/320x400.jpeg)
Omolola Oloyede
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
NOW accepting new clients from all over TEXAS! Are you ever wondering if what you're experiencing is typical? Perhaps you are puzzled by your forgetfulness, struggle to concentrate, or find yourself easily distracted. Maybe getting out of bed in the morning feels like a chore, you lack motivation to engage in life, or you experience unexplained tearfulness. Do you find it difficult to sleep at night, waking up multiple times and feeling exhausted the next day? Have you faced trauma that leaves you feeling anxious and on edge? You don't have to navigate these difficulties by yourself.
NOW accepting new clients from all over TEXAS! Are you ever wondering if what you're experiencing is typical? Perhaps you are puzzled by your forgetfulness, struggle to concentrate, or find yourself easily distracted. Maybe getting out of bed in the morning feels like a chore, you lack motivation to engage in life, or you experience unexplained tearfulness. Do you find it difficult to sleep at night, waking up multiple times and feeling exhausted the next day? Have you faced trauma that leaves you feeling anxious and on edge? You don't have to navigate these difficulties by yourself.
![Photo of Careen Tetuh, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03dd24b1-c447-45d4-80af-297167e67e26/2/320x400.jpeg)
A compassionate and empathetic Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of comprehensive experience in health care, providing wellness and mental health management for a variety of populations.
A compassionate and empathetic Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of comprehensive experience in health care, providing wellness and mental health management for a variety of populations.
![Photo of Amy Azih, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee5bd1f6-68b1-478b-98a3-a5d7bfc8f657/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We're thrilled to announce that we have same-week appointment slots open for new patients seeking virtual medication management and therapy services across the great state of Texas. You could be on your way to improved mental health as soon as this week with our adept Psychiatric Physician Assistant. Our method is all-encompassing, considering the mind, body, and spirit in our care. We blend medication, supplements, and therapy to deliver a comprehensive care plan. Our solutions are versatile, anchored in scientific evidence, and aimed at helping you conquer your goals.
Welcome! We're thrilled to announce that we have same-week appointment slots open for new patients seeking virtual medication management and therapy services across the great state of Texas. You could be on your way to improved mental health as soon as this week with our adept Psychiatric Physician Assistant. Our method is all-encompassing, considering the mind, body, and spirit in our care. We blend medication, supplements, and therapy to deliver a comprehensive care plan. Our solutions are versatile, anchored in scientific evidence, and aimed at helping you conquer your goals.
![Photo of Nanu A Ogunyoku, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a19dfd29-493a-4cb9-aaf3-812ebb92e8c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nanu A Ogunyoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494 (Online Only)
I believe in dealing with the patient as a whole when it comes to depression, anxiety, trauma , mood disorders, PTSD, and sleep problems. We are currently accepting New Telehealth Patients from Colorado, Nevada and Texas. We will work with you to make sure you get the best care possible.
I believe in dealing with the patient as a whole when it comes to depression, anxiety, trauma , mood disorders, PTSD, and sleep problems. We are currently accepting New Telehealth Patients from Colorado, Nevada and Texas. We will work with you to make sure you get the best care possible.
![Photo of Endah Fomuki-Munde, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b80eecad-2547-4925-a4a9-351ed9e62a90/1/320x400.jpeg)
Endah Fomuki-Munde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We welcome new patients, offering appointment slots within a week. If you are grappling with feelings of depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life transitions, stressful situations, or substance use, know that you're not alone. PHC offers a holistic approach, addressing symptoms and underlying causes. Our commitment to evidence-based practices ensures comprehensive and effective treatment. PHC specializes in conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other related disorders.
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We welcome new patients, offering appointment slots within a week. If you are grappling with feelings of depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life transitions, stressful situations, or substance use, know that you're not alone. PHC offers a holistic approach, addressing symptoms and underlying causes. Our commitment to evidence-based practices ensures comprehensive and effective treatment. PHC specializes in conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other related disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Brian Zachariah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4c472ec-3289-454f-95d2-986cf0225c25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brian Zachariah is a board-certified psychiatrist and believes in tailoring his approach to meet each patient’s unique needs. He uses a multi-modal approach, incorporating medication management, patient empowerment, and psychoeducation to improve patients’ quality of life.
Dr. Brian Zachariah is a board-certified psychiatrist and believes in tailoring his approach to meet each patient’s unique needs. He uses a multi-modal approach, incorporating medication management, patient empowerment, and psychoeducation to improve patients’ quality of life.
![Photo of Lynda Parker - Dr Lynda Parker - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c175089-8d09-45ed-bb4a-97776fe217cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
![Photo of Omolola Oloyede - Empowered Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dd7beb1-5aad-44ab-b812-3cff67b24165/2/320x400.jpeg)
Empowered Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Are you ever curious if what you're experiencing is typical? Perhaps you are puzzled by your forgetfulness, struggle to focus, or find yourself easily distracted. Maybe getting out of bed in the morning feels like a chore, you lack motivation to engage in life, or you experience unexplained tearfulness. Do you find it difficult to sleep at night, waking up multiple times and feeling exhausted the next day? Have you faced trauma that leaves you feeling anxious and on edge? You don't have to navigate these difficulties by yourself.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Are you ever curious if what you're experiencing is typical? Perhaps you are puzzled by your forgetfulness, struggle to focus, or find yourself easily distracted. Maybe getting out of bed in the morning feels like a chore, you lack motivation to engage in life, or you experience unexplained tearfulness. Do you find it difficult to sleep at night, waking up multiple times and feeling exhausted the next day? Have you faced trauma that leaves you feeling anxious and on edge? You don't have to navigate these difficulties by yourself.
![Photo of Claudine Onsongo - Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca9e5d9f-555b-460a-ab82-a477dc475aca/2/320x400.png)
Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
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![Photo of Veronica Umerah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36d9cb87-0da3-4680-9472-0f159dad20a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Umerah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77493 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Veronica Umerah. Hi! I just want use this opportunity to appreciate you for taking this bold step to seek help for your mental health, because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, Bipolar d/o, Schizoaffective d/o, Schizophrenia and/or self-care.
Welcome! I'm Veronica Umerah. Hi! I just want use this opportunity to appreciate you for taking this bold step to seek help for your mental health, because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, Bipolar d/o, Schizoaffective d/o, Schizophrenia and/or self-care.
![Photo of Careen Endam Tetuh - psych health and wellness, APRN, NP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3ad042e-80fc-43eb-a07d-2eae60dd9bac/2/320x400.jpeg)
psych health and wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77449
A compassionate and empathetic Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of comprehensive experience in health care, providing wellness and mental health management for a variety of populations. Skilled at analyzing patient history to build diagnosis, plan, treatment, psychotherapy, and medication management, enhancing patients with more knowledge to improve their physical and cognitive well-being after each visit.
A compassionate and empathetic Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of comprehensive experience in health care, providing wellness and mental health management for a variety of populations. Skilled at analyzing patient history to build diagnosis, plan, treatment, psychotherapy, and medication management, enhancing patients with more knowledge to improve their physical and cognitive well-being after each visit.
![Photo of Adedamola Adefioye, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83fb588d-f1a0-4b43-93ac-c0ee2a3b18c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adedamola Adefioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494 (Online Only)
Adedamola "Ade" Adefioye is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 8 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field. She manages and treats adolescents and adults with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sleep disorders.
Adedamola "Ade" Adefioye is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 8 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field. She manages and treats adolescents and adults with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sleep disorders.
![Photo of Olaide Akinyinka - The Renewed Mind Behavioral Health and Wellness , NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b7957d-d068-4dc2-96ad-eda4a4f5c7c1/1/320x400.png)
The Renewed Mind Behavioral Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
My name Olaide Akinyinka, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 8 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey! I treat teens, young adult and elderly population with a focus of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. I believe in a collaborative approach. I specialize in medication management. I am dedicated to helping clients optimize their mental health by developing a collaborative partnership with clients and tailoring treatment to meet specific needs.
My name Olaide Akinyinka, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 8 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey! I treat teens, young adult and elderly population with a focus of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. I believe in a collaborative approach. I specialize in medication management. I am dedicated to helping clients optimize their mental health by developing a collaborative partnership with clients and tailoring treatment to meet specific needs.
![Photo of Edmund Munde, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/344ea1b1-8305-4bf6-b66a-bd673ad23334/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edmund Munde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77450
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We are accepting new patients with appointments available within a week. If you're overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life changes, stressful events, or substance use, you're not alone. We provide guidance for healing and self-discovery through a holistic approach that addresses symptoms and underlying causes. We use evidence-based approach to treat our patients. At PHC, we treat conditions like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders.
Welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Care (PHC). We are accepting new patients with appointments available within a week. If you're overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood swings, psychosis, life changes, stressful events, or substance use, you're not alone. We provide guidance for healing and self-discovery through a holistic approach that addresses symptoms and underlying causes. We use evidence-based approach to treat our patients. At PHC, we treat conditions like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, autism, PTSD, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Nadia Anne McFarlane, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5014f345-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I then completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I am Board Certified in General, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. I completed my adult psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I then completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I am Board Certified in General, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
![Photo of Nkem Okoli - SimSo Behavioral Legacy, LLC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11e0cfa5-6ab4-421d-8592-22da920d14a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
SimSo Behavioral Legacy, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77449 (Online Only)
My approach to care it's a holistic approach that provides support not just with the mental needs of the client, but also the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My approach is client centered, culture Specific, individualized care- no one shoe fit all approach to care.
My approach to care it's a holistic approach that provides support not just with the mental needs of the client, but also the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My approach is client centered, culture Specific, individualized care- no one shoe fit all approach to care.
![Photo of Dr. Ramana Surya, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d97f37e-3b7b-4540-9364-858dc4d1fa52/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ramana Surya is passionate about helping patients improve their well-being, seeing them happy and productive, and having good relationships with family and friends. His approach is holistic, seeing the patient and improving their overall health and outlook.
Dr. Ramana Surya is passionate about helping patients improve their well-being, seeing them happy and productive, and having good relationships with family and friends. His approach is holistic, seeing the patient and improving their overall health and outlook.
![Photo of Dr. Sireesha Chimata, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea00a349-5d46-44b6-a9b1-24721ab37223/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sireesha Chimata understands that mental health is complex and can be daunting for patients and their families. Dr. Chimata wants her patients to gain stability and be at peace. She uses an evidence-based approach to therapy.
Dr. Sireesha Chimata understands that mental health is complex and can be daunting for patients and their families. Dr. Chimata wants her patients to gain stability and be at peace. She uses an evidence-based approach to therapy.
See more therapy options for Katy
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Katy, TX
80+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Katy, TX who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Medication Management |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Katy, TX see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Katy?
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.