Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
![Photo of Olubunmi Oladosu, PMHNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/842cc9a8-d22f-4e46-86b7-30e50f617050/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olubunmi Oladosu
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229 (Online Only)
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
![Photo of Dr. Susan Wynne, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e6644a9-9f8b-4dd2-b6d2-8ea666becaed/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Susan Wynne is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. She specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and ADHD. She offers medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. Dr. Wynne strives to provide exemplary and professional treatment to her patients and their families.
Dr. Susan Wynne is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. She specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and ADHD. She offers medication management, psychotherapy and consultation for children, adolescents and adults. For parents with a child with mental health issues, you hope that a psychiatrist will make you and your family feel comfortable and secure, while providing quality care. Dr. Wynne strives to provide exemplary and professional treatment to her patients and their families.
![Photo of Eunice W Mwaura - Eunice Mwaura, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d815cdc-4ba5-4cbe-923e-639780cfcdfb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eunice Mwaura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, insomnia or mood instability? I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD , psychosis and sleep problems. I help my patients not just with medications but also in other areas of their life . I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. Please reach out
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, insomnia or mood instability? I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD , psychosis and sleep problems. I help my patients not just with medications but also in other areas of their life . I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. Please reach out
![Photo of Deidre Rose Alder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efa87cf4-8006-4b1e-9faf-b6005e1f15ec/1/320x400.png)
Deidre Rose Alder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209 (Online Only)
Deidre is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. She also believes in engaging in a therapeutic rapport.
Deidre is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. She also believes in engaging in a therapeutic rapport.
![Photo of Dr. Abigail Talley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f587dc80-be9f-4262-a0a4-ca5fdb000fa3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
![Photo of Jordan Davis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8406b29b-bec4-4509-a356-c1b17c94f7c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78251
I am open to see new patients who are seeking help for their mental health needs and need a listening ear. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to prescribe medications that can be helpful for your mental health needs and I enjoy being a part of your journey to wholesome health.
I am open to see new patients who are seeking help for their mental health needs and need a listening ear. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to prescribe medications that can be helpful for your mental health needs and I enjoy being a part of your journey to wholesome health.
![Photo of Kolade Ajayi - Alamo Premier Mental Health, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34a00de1-bbce-42ca-a61f-e1849b1d5b7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alamo Premier Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from.
I am a compassionate dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from.
![Photo of Omar Ali, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c963b61-0a15-4182-88b1-dacf34a36005/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Omar Ali is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. He went to Medical School at Texas Tech University School of Medicine and completed his Residency at LSU-Ochsner Adult Psychiatry Program. Dr. Ali strives to provide a collaborative and personalized approach in which we work together to find a way forward to living the best quality of life possible. He understands that seeking mental health treatment can be intimidating and anxiety provoking for many, and some may never seek help for these reasons.
Dr. Omar Ali is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. He went to Medical School at Texas Tech University School of Medicine and completed his Residency at LSU-Ochsner Adult Psychiatry Program. Dr. Ali strives to provide a collaborative and personalized approach in which we work together to find a way forward to living the best quality of life possible. He understands that seeking mental health treatment can be intimidating and anxiety provoking for many, and some may never seek help for these reasons.
![Photo of Arif Noorbaksh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e264663-03c8-43d6-8415-716e9e401de8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to meet you where you are on your individual journey - no two people are the same. To get started attend your initial evaluation and let's talk through your experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the lived experience, current symptoms, and treatment preferences. Treatment planning is collaborative. Your preferences and goals are essential in finding the best route for care. Potential treatment modalities include medications, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, behavioral interventions, and supplementation.
I strive to meet you where you are on your individual journey - no two people are the same. To get started attend your initial evaluation and let's talk through your experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the lived experience, current symptoms, and treatment preferences. Treatment planning is collaborative. Your preferences and goals are essential in finding the best route for care. Potential treatment modalities include medications, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, behavioral interventions, and supplementation.
![Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4e1863a-b3bf-4e8c-8ee1-7eb1687e2a0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! If you're visiting my profile, I'm here to assist you on your path to better mental health. My name is Bridgett Gant, and I've just opened more spots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I accept a range of major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but currently, I have openings from Monday to Friday (morning and afternoon).
Hello! If you're visiting my profile, I'm here to assist you on your path to better mental health. My name is Bridgett Gant, and I've just opened more spots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I accept a range of major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but currently, I have openings from Monday to Friday (morning and afternoon).
![Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cff23e4c-6506-483b-afca-72a2e42e40db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
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![Photo of Belen Ramos, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3afcd091-2a4a-4c37-a308-fae644e3df4f/3/320x400.jpeg)
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
![Photo of Michelle Cantu - Michelle L Cantu, MD, PA, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/655d1a96-dca3-4b91-84b6-2eb29e732b51/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are new to mental health or have a history of mental health issues, you are likely looking for a supportive environment, diagnostic clarification, and knowledge regarding all treatment options. You are needing a provider who will listen to your concerns and get to know you as a person. If you are the parent of a child with mental health issues, you are seeking a place where your child will feel comfortable and nurtured. You are wanting a provider who will spend the time getting to know your child and family dynamic, while providing your child with the quality care they would want for their own children.
Whether you are new to mental health or have a history of mental health issues, you are likely looking for a supportive environment, diagnostic clarification, and knowledge regarding all treatment options. You are needing a provider who will listen to your concerns and get to know you as a person. If you are the parent of a child with mental health issues, you are seeking a place where your child will feel comfortable and nurtured. You are wanting a provider who will spend the time getting to know your child and family dynamic, while providing your child with the quality care they would want for their own children.
![Photo of Jibril Yakubu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1b3d77-3b2d-4b09-a405-da69ea293d77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78215 (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.
![Photo of Olanike (Nikki) Katibi - Live Oak Psychiatry and Family Practice, PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16d45b61-3a09-488f-af05-91653b5b7499/2/320x400.jpeg)
Live Oak Psychiatry and Family Practice, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Now Accepting New Patients! Appointments within a week are available including, evenings weekdays and weekends. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? At Live Oak Psychiatric and Family Practice, we strive to understand individuals and their symptoms within the context of their environments and relationships. We are skilled in addressing acute and chronic illnesses while maintaining a collaborative, warm and non-judgmental stance. We focus on holistic approach and evidenced based treatment modalities including pharmacologic management and psychotherapeutic interventions.
Now Accepting New Patients! Appointments within a week are available including, evenings weekdays and weekends. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? At Live Oak Psychiatric and Family Practice, we strive to understand individuals and their symptoms within the context of their environments and relationships. We are skilled in addressing acute and chronic illnesses while maintaining a collaborative, warm and non-judgmental stance. We focus on holistic approach and evidenced based treatment modalities including pharmacologic management and psychotherapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Edmund Cavazos, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06cc4e69-f4d5-456d-a191-fb9ea4e12eea/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56be311f-2d77-489a-8d7f-0c48da5aa81e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78215 (Online Only)
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
![Photo of Christina Wei, PhD, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6acd0be9-1c5e-4314-9267-e4d12bc99571/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Wei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Mental wellness is a journey, and I would love to be a part of your treatment team! With more than 20 years of experience, I have a huge appreciation and respect for people who place their care in my hands. My ideal patient wants help from a highly qualified and caring professional who is versed in both psychiatry and brief psychotherapy, specializing in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Let's spend time collaborating on a well-thought-out and comprehensive treatment plan for your problems/concerns. Group therapy for adults is available.
Mental wellness is a journey, and I would love to be a part of your treatment team! With more than 20 years of experience, I have a huge appreciation and respect for people who place their care in my hands. My ideal patient wants help from a highly qualified and caring professional who is versed in both psychiatry and brief psychotherapy, specializing in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Let's spend time collaborating on a well-thought-out and comprehensive treatment plan for your problems/concerns. Group therapy for adults is available.
![Photo of Salvi Marie Alday, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd56f91-4f9b-4761-8849-f3f02cd5790d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Salvi Marie Alday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258 (Online Only)
Mental illness is stigmatized, taboo, or scandalous in most cultures. You matter, and You are Worthy. Ask for Help. Rewire your Brain. Break the Silence. Visit my website- www.passionpurposecmhs.org
Mental illness is stigmatized, taboo, or scandalous in most cultures. You matter, and You are Worthy. Ask for Help. Rewire your Brain. Break the Silence. Visit my website- www.passionpurposecmhs.org
![Photo of Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a123ffc5-2fcb-4acf-83de-e3040f424a19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78251 (Online Only)
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
200+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Medication Management |
74% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Antonio?
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.