Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX
![Photo of Oladele A. Adebogun - PsychiatryMD - WestBend Fort Worth & Flower Mound, MD, FAPA, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/136657a7-8252-4563-a5fb-b2e561aed5f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
PsychiatryMD - WestBend Fort Worth & Flower Mound
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.
![Photo of Jaishree Raghavan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2a4980f-799e-43f6-93a5-57c388ed7fe0/1/320x400.png)
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
![Photo of Dr. Pulcharia Thompson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea7c687b-615d-471b-a346-49a634db025e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Pulcharia Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
![Photo of Diana Mummert, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe8c5bc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist with over 9 years of experience, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.
As a psychiatrist with over 9 years of experience, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.
![Photo of Lindsey O'Neill, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db5966a-5048-48c7-ae2a-fc856de43a22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey O'Neill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0160e62-eddd-495e-8e68-e1f46c8481a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
![Photo of Patrice Garcia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51341239-e71f-481f-b237-0ef54f8fb302/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrice Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76123 (Online Only)
Dr. Patrice Garcia is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctoral degree. She is board-certified, and state licensed in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Florida, and New York as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Dr. Patrice Garcia is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctoral degree. She is board-certified, and state licensed in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Florida, and New York as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Bridgett Gant, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b686b5c-2856-4b98-a6e2-dd55fcf9e3d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107 (Online Only)
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Philip Hamby - Suboxone Keller/Alliance/Southlake/Fort Worth TX, APRN, MS, FNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e161e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suboxone Keller/Alliance/Southlake/Fort Worth TX
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MS, FNP-c
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244
Philip is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with almost a decade of experience in working with individuals struggling with addiction. Addiction effects all parts of a person and as such requires treatment that addresses each of these parts. Medication assisted sobriety encompasses certain medications that help to work on the parts of the brain that either cause an individual to be more prone to addiction or to help block the reward centers of the brain in order to minimize cravings and desire to use.
Philip is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with almost a decade of experience in working with individuals struggling with addiction. Addiction effects all parts of a person and as such requires treatment that addresses each of these parts. Medication assisted sobriety encompasses certain medications that help to work on the parts of the brain that either cause an individual to be more prone to addiction or to help block the reward centers of the brain in order to minimize cravings and desire to use.
![Photo of Michael Tsovko, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36340f11-292d-42e7-962a-b0a233aed258/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Tsovko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76132
My ideal client is the one I can help the most. I am interested in every case and I enjoy solving problems and working on long term solutions that are most beneficial for the client.
My ideal client is the one I can help the most. I am interested in every case and I enjoy solving problems and working on long term solutions that are most beneficial for the client.
![Photo of Caroline Mose, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53dec962-0045-4056-b95a-8662b65cb7e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Mose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76179 (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with the access to the mental healthcare system, or overwhelmed with emotions and do not know where to start? I have 6 plus years working in various setting inpatient, outpatient and via tele-medicine I believe everyone’s mental health needs is unique, My goal is to take adequate time, to get to know you and work with you to customize treatment according to your needs. I strive to provide quality care that is individual based in a caring and non-judgmental manner.
Are you frustrated with the access to the mental healthcare system, or overwhelmed with emotions and do not know where to start? I have 6 plus years working in various setting inpatient, outpatient and via tele-medicine I believe everyone’s mental health needs is unique, My goal is to take adequate time, to get to know you and work with you to customize treatment according to your needs. I strive to provide quality care that is individual based in a caring and non-judgmental manner.
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![Photo of Emily Cook, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2811189-8bef-41f2-bd5b-662c67edf582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
![Photo of Jordan Riney, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87309e72-0bbe-4595-a44a-c8184db7fe84/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Jordan! I am a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry for ages 4 and older. I also have in-depth experience with grief, religious trauma, emergency services personnel, healthcare workers, and disaster victims. I specialize in autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic, OCD, PTSD, binge eating disorder, and weight gain. I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi, I'm Jordan! I am a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry for ages 4 and older. I also have in-depth experience with grief, religious trauma, emergency services personnel, healthcare workers, and disaster victims. I specialize in autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic, OCD, PTSD, binge eating disorder, and weight gain. I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of Lawretta Njideka Ezukanma, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf2a851f-cf8e-4600-8613-cd541e1a8aa9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lawretta Njideka Ezukanma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76244 (Online Only)
I put patient care above all else, aiming to make psychiatric services accessible to all patients with mental health disorders. I am eager to work with and support you to become the best person you look forward to being by applying holistic and evidence-based practice. Clients should expect a relaxing environment that is empathetic, compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental, encouraging patients to freely express their mental health concerns and feel heard. I take individual approach to treat patient with compassion, dignity and respect
I put patient care above all else, aiming to make psychiatric services accessible to all patients with mental health disorders. I am eager to work with and support you to become the best person you look forward to being by applying holistic and evidence-based practice. Clients should expect a relaxing environment that is empathetic, compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental, encouraging patients to freely express their mental health concerns and feel heard. I take individual approach to treat patient with compassion, dignity and respect
![Photo of Michael Millstone - Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c417b063-ffa4-436a-91b0-efedc3dfbd6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (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.
![Photo of Naomi Nyabuto, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/727d4bf1-7198-4e35-b2c0-cda16e586507/1/320x400.jpeg)
Naomi Nyabuto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76137
If you are struggling with mental health, feeling overwhelmed and finding it difficult to cope with life, we can walk together the journey toward healing. In our first meeting, we shall discuss your current symptoms, history, and treatment goals. I shall work with you to identify your needs and goals. We shall develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your needs. My priority is to see you feel better and live quality of life.
If you are struggling with mental health, feeling overwhelmed and finding it difficult to cope with life, we can walk together the journey toward healing. In our first meeting, we shall discuss your current symptoms, history, and treatment goals. I shall work with you to identify your needs and goals. We shall develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your needs. My priority is to see you feel better and live quality of life.
![Photo of Satang Ann, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/255dccd0-ea73-43c6-8cd1-05b139e0a740/1/320x400.jpeg)
Satang Ann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76177 (Online Only)
I value meeting my clients where they are, utilizing an evidence-based treatment approach, and working with the interdisciplinary treatment team if needed. My core values are being a good listener, showing empathy, and building rapport with my client. The client remains the center of care. Thank you for trusting me with your care.
I value meeting my clients where they are, utilizing an evidence-based treatment approach, and working with the interdisciplinary treatment team if needed. My core values are being a good listener, showing empathy, and building rapport with my client. The client remains the center of care. Thank you for trusting me with your care.
![Photo of Jocelyn Jingwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c02e88aa-6000-4207-a414-c6d412d47fc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
![Photo of Paige Thacker, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99a9f89d-48af-4b95-843c-1f2b603810fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Thacker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104 (Online Only)
There is nothing worse than hearing that alarm clock day in and out, only to wake up feeling like you didn’t sleep at all. All the thoughts begin to flood in, your “to-do’s”, this or that meeting or appointment. You haven’t even made it out the door before feeling completely overwhelmed, defeated, or maybe even hopeless. Depressed, anxious, moody, or irritable may be words that describe how you’re feeling; perhaps your loved ones have said similar things. I have helped countless others like yourself, and I am confident that together we can get you feeling better. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders adolescents and adults
There is nothing worse than hearing that alarm clock day in and out, only to wake up feeling like you didn’t sleep at all. All the thoughts begin to flood in, your “to-do’s”, this or that meeting or appointment. You haven’t even made it out the door before feeling completely overwhelmed, defeated, or maybe even hopeless. Depressed, anxious, moody, or irritable may be words that describe how you’re feeling; perhaps your loved ones have said similar things. I have helped countless others like yourself, and I am confident that together we can get you feeling better. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders adolescents and adults
See more therapy options for Fort Worth
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
95% | Aetna |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX see their clients
51% | Online Only | |
49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Worth?
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.