Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX
![Photo of Sonia Pillai, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce032a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Sonia Pillai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Do you have concerns regarding your child/teen's behavioral health? Have you noticed them having increased struggles with starting and finishing their school work? Have teachers brought this to your attention? Are you having difficulty/ feel anxious when it comes to parenting them because of their destructive behaviors? Are you are afraid of medication or have concerns that your child believes meds are the only answer to their current issues? Schedule an evaluation today so that you can begin to consider the many reasons for your child's struggles and discuss options that can improve their learning and/or behaviors.
Do you have concerns regarding your child/teen's behavioral health? Have you noticed them having increased struggles with starting and finishing their school work? Have teachers brought this to your attention? Are you having difficulty/ feel anxious when it comes to parenting them because of their destructive behaviors? Are you are afraid of medication or have concerns that your child believes meds are the only answer to their current issues? Schedule an evaluation today so that you can begin to consider the many reasons for your child's struggles and discuss options that can improve their learning and/or behaviors.
![Photo of Shubhada Reddy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8d7a252-9612-4d49-baa9-8fac1755619a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Reddy completed her general psychiatry training at the University of Illinois in Peoria, and went on to complete her child and adolescent fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern. She is double board certified in adult as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. She has experience working in various levels of care within mental health and has most recently served as the medical director for a partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient program (PHP/IOP) for adolescents in the Dallas/Forth Worth area.
Dr. Reddy completed her general psychiatry training at the University of Illinois in Peoria, and went on to complete her child and adolescent fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern. She is double board certified in adult as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. She has experience working in various levels of care within mental health and has most recently served as the medical director for a partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient program (PHP/IOP) for adolescents in the Dallas/Forth Worth area.
![Photo of Dr. Suparna Basu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbdb0fd4-442d-4dd1-9387-8fb8ea1f43ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
![Photo of Elizabeth Otucho, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9210b51-1337-4293-bcd1-64cc3e4ac02f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Otucho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is very passionate about mental health care. My specialties include treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorders and other common mental health problems in individuals above the age of 16. I enjoy working closely with patients and their families. I am a good listener, warm, compassionate and approach every individual with kindness and respect.
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is very passionate about mental health care. My specialties include treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorders and other common mental health problems in individuals above the age of 16. I enjoy working closely with patients and their families. I am a good listener, warm, compassionate and approach every individual with kindness and respect.
![Photo of Olumayowa Omoyeni, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78f5a7d5-3917-421d-ba80-810187c80fdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olumayowa Omoyeni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Mayowa Omoyeni is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from The University of Texas at Arlington and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She has experience treating individuals across the lifespan including, but not limited to those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. She believes in treating the patient as a whole, while considering mental, physical, environmental, and social factors. She is passionate about providing access to high quality mental health care.
Mayowa Omoyeni is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from The University of Texas at Arlington and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She has experience treating individuals across the lifespan including, but not limited to those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. She believes in treating the patient as a whole, while considering mental, physical, environmental, and social factors. She is passionate about providing access to high quality mental health care.
![Photo of Gloria Oyeniyi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2898fa5-45ce-45cb-9cb4-aba3aa41a109/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gloria Oyeniyi is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adult patients. She completed her undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD where she received her Bachelor's degree with Honors in Public Health, then completed her medical degree at The University of Texas at Houston. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at The University of Texas Dell Medical School at Austin where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Oyeniyi has worked in several clinical, leadership and administrative positions and has been actively involved in teaching and community outreach.
Dr. Gloria Oyeniyi is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adult patients. She completed her undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD where she received her Bachelor's degree with Honors in Public Health, then completed her medical degree at The University of Texas at Houston. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at The University of Texas Dell Medical School at Austin where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Oyeniyi has worked in several clinical, leadership and administrative positions and has been actively involved in teaching and community outreach.
![Photo of Sumeet Singh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd1ef759-137c-4169-8798-0ba2624ecd88/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sumeet Singh is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Most recently, Dr. Singh worked for Life Stance Health, an outpatient telehealth company, where he treated patients between the ages of 18-65 years old with both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Dr. Singh has years of experience treating the following disorders/diagnoses: depression, anxiety and panic attacks, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD.
Dr. Sumeet Singh is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Most recently, Dr. Singh worked for Life Stance Health, an outpatient telehealth company, where he treated patients between the ages of 18-65 years old with both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Dr. Singh has years of experience treating the following disorders/diagnoses: depression, anxiety and panic attacks, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD.
![Photo of Jennifer Ruch, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/786fc761-d3b3-4897-bec3-c9e7b94c204f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Ruch is a board certified psychiatrist who strives to understand her patients’ lived experiences and aspirations to develop supportive therapeutic relationships through empathetic listening, mutual trust, and respect. She collaboratively creates individualized care plans that align with personal treatment goals in a safe and judgment-free environment. She earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ruch completed her General Psychiatry Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in New York.
Dr. Jennifer Ruch is a board certified psychiatrist who strives to understand her patients’ lived experiences and aspirations to develop supportive therapeutic relationships through empathetic listening, mutual trust, and respect. She collaboratively creates individualized care plans that align with personal treatment goals in a safe and judgment-free environment. She earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ruch completed her General Psychiatry Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in New York.
![Photo of Tiffany Abtahi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec6bc506-d46e-4cdf-bc49-4adf07623cb0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tiffany Abtahi is board certified in adult psychiatry who has been in practice for over 6 years. She completed her residency at Icahn School of Medicine, Elmhurst Hospital Center program where she served as Chief Resident in her final year. After completing her residency training, Dr Abtahi worked as a staff psychiatrist in the VA Medical Center focusing on PTSD, depression and anxiety. Dr. Abtahi has held an academic appointment at University of UT Southwestern medical school and has spent her professional career supervising/teaching medical students and psychiatry residents.
Dr. Tiffany Abtahi is board certified in adult psychiatry who has been in practice for over 6 years. She completed her residency at Icahn School of Medicine, Elmhurst Hospital Center program where she served as Chief Resident in her final year. After completing her residency training, Dr Abtahi worked as a staff psychiatrist in the VA Medical Center focusing on PTSD, depression and anxiety. Dr. Abtahi has held an academic appointment at University of UT Southwestern medical school and has spent her professional career supervising/teaching medical students and psychiatry residents.
![Photo of Michael Escamilla, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea499150-b472-4bf7-be33-58dbd05f0064/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Escamilla is a graduate of Harvard College and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his psychiatry training at the University of California at San Francisco and also completed a research fellowship with the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Escamilla is a graduate of Harvard College and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his psychiatry training at the University of California at San Francisco and also completed a research fellowship with the American Psychiatric Association.
![Photo of Knoelle Park, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7709222b-0fa1-41e3-9a43-137455995dc5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Knoelle Park
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Knoelle Park is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is joining the Talkiatry team to begin her post-residency career. Dr. Park knows a patient is much more than an illness. With empathic listening, she collaborates with her clients to understand their background, values, and goals for treatment. Although her practice focuses on medication management, she strives to incorporate modalities such as supportive therapy to enhance treatment and will encourage her clients to seek more intensive therapy when indicated.
Dr. Knoelle Park is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is joining the Talkiatry team to begin her post-residency career. Dr. Park knows a patient is much more than an illness. With empathic listening, she collaborates with her clients to understand their background, values, and goals for treatment. Although her practice focuses on medication management, she strives to incorporate modalities such as supportive therapy to enhance treatment and will encourage her clients to seek more intensive therapy when indicated.
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![Photo of Raigina Preston, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbb10716-e872-44f2-a7a8-6f9aa7613d75/3/320x400.jpeg)
Raigina Preston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I understand that seeking mental health treatment can sometimes seem like a task. Whether it’s your first time opening up or you’ve seen someone before, and now you have to retell your story all over again. Either way, you’ve taken a step in the right direction, and that’s to start the process of feeling better because MENTAL HEALTH IS NOT A TREND. IT IS A LIFESTYLE.
I understand that seeking mental health treatment can sometimes seem like a task. Whether it’s your first time opening up or you’ve seen someone before, and now you have to retell your story all over again. Either way, you’ve taken a step in the right direction, and that’s to start the process of feeling better because MENTAL HEALTH IS NOT A TREND. IT IS A LIFESTYLE.
![Photo of Nilesh Tannu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca189613-18c2-429d-8d14-297150790a79/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nilesh Tannu, MD, is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry since past 7 years at Texas Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Tannu uses the bio-psycho-social model to provide evidence-based psychopharmacologic treatment. He also integrates supportive and cognitive-behavioral therapy modalities into his practice. Dr. Tannu is strongly committed to mental health care, education and helping patients achieve optimal functioning to accomplish their life goals.
Nilesh Tannu, MD, is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry since past 7 years at Texas Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Tannu uses the bio-psycho-social model to provide evidence-based psychopharmacologic treatment. He also integrates supportive and cognitive-behavioral therapy modalities into his practice. Dr. Tannu is strongly committed to mental health care, education and helping patients achieve optimal functioning to accomplish their life goals.
![Photo of Elizabeth Faust, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba18c40f-e5ae-4afb-a791-ebe6d48820ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elizabeth Faust is board-certified in Psychiatry with a fellowship in Integrative Psychiatry. She started in Family Medicine while in the Navy, where she also was a Flight Surgeon. She has practiced medicine since 1999, focusing on Psychiatry since 2007. Dr. Faust practices with an integrative approach to see what medical factors contribute to symptoms, unhealthy thought or relationship patterns, and lifestyle factors that maintain dysfunction. Unexamined, medications will only work briefly.
Dr. Elizabeth Faust is board-certified in Psychiatry with a fellowship in Integrative Psychiatry. She started in Family Medicine while in the Navy, where she also was a Flight Surgeon. She has practiced medicine since 1999, focusing on Psychiatry since 2007. Dr. Faust practices with an integrative approach to see what medical factors contribute to symptoms, unhealthy thought or relationship patterns, and lifestyle factors that maintain dysfunction. Unexamined, medications will only work briefly.
![Photo of Osman Athar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fd93694-429d-49ad-b1ba-782ec4a97231/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Osman Athar is board certified in General Psychiatry and board eligible in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry. He graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in English from Rice University, from McGovern Medical School for his medical doctorate and went on to complete Psychiatry residency at the University of Texas-Houston where he served as a chief resident. Afterwards, he completed fellowship in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry at Louisiana State University - Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
Dr. Osman Athar is board certified in General Psychiatry and board eligible in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry. He graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in English from Rice University, from McGovern Medical School for his medical doctorate and went on to complete Psychiatry residency at the University of Texas-Houston where he served as a chief resident. Afterwards, he completed fellowship in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry at Louisiana State University - Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
![Photo of Bryce Cragg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/314f2546-2514-4d2e-969e-c20cebac36b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bryce Cragg is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience in medicine, medical education, and research. He has a special interest in treating anxiety and depression, and he is passionate about helping his patients achieve their mental health goals. Dr. Cragg is a strong advocate for evidence-based treatments, and he is committed to providing his patients with the highest quality of care.
Dr. Bryce Cragg is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience in medicine, medical education, and research. He has a special interest in treating anxiety and depression, and he is passionate about helping his patients achieve their mental health goals. Dr. Cragg is a strong advocate for evidence-based treatments, and he is committed to providing his patients with the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Kaycia Vansickle, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f8c7c35-c157-4470-8bc6-2dc548363013/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vansickle is a board-certified adult psychiatrist, who has been in practice for over 25 years. At the heart of Dr. Vansickle's clinical approach is an emphasis on establishing trust. She focuses on building strong therapeutic and collaborative environments with patients who are struggling with depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, anxiety including social, obsessive-compulsive, and generalized anxiety disorders. She provides psychiatric medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy and education.
Dr. Vansickle is a board-certified adult psychiatrist, who has been in practice for over 25 years. At the heart of Dr. Vansickle's clinical approach is an emphasis on establishing trust. She focuses on building strong therapeutic and collaborative environments with patients who are struggling with depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, anxiety including social, obsessive-compulsive, and generalized anxiety disorders. She provides psychiatric medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy and education.
![Photo of Ayanna Swinton Jamison, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c87ea4d-6cdb-4620-b3a1-2c6728d05153/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ayanna Swinton Jamison is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 18 years of experience in general psychiatry. She has extensive experience in counseling, medication management, Ketamine infusions, Spravato, and ElectricMagnetic Therapy. Dr. Jamison is committed to educating her patients about their illnesses and providing personalized care for each patient.
Dr. Ayanna Swinton Jamison is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 18 years of experience in general psychiatry. She has extensive experience in counseling, medication management, Ketamine infusions, Spravato, and ElectricMagnetic Therapy. Dr. Jamison is committed to educating her patients about their illnesses and providing personalized care for each patient.
![Photo of Dr. Carnika Donald, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, ADHD-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e096d28-a24d-4888-b88c-61185e641f59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carnika Donald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, ADHD-C
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. Our providers possess years of varied training and experience. Our licensed and board-certified providers specializes in psychopharmacology - the medications which treat psychiatric disorders, working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our professional staff provides a wide range of high-quality, affordable, and accessible services to keep you emotionally healthy and physically active. High quality care is delivered in an environment that promotes safety, confidentiality and privacy.
Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. Our providers possess years of varied training and experience. Our licensed and board-certified providers specializes in psychopharmacology - the medications which treat psychiatric disorders, working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our professional staff provides a wide range of high-quality, affordable, and accessible services to keep you emotionally healthy and physically active. High quality care is delivered in an environment that promotes safety, confidentiality and privacy.
![Photo of Jill Grant - McKinney Psychotherapy and Counseling, APRN, CNS, APMH, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f37e4d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
McKinney Psychotherapy and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, CNS, APMH
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
The greatest psychological need of human beings is to be understood. Not being understood, or worse, being misunderstood, is a very lonely and painful experience. Our highest aim at McKinney Psychotherapy and Counseling, is to understand you as a person, and to understand what you are going through in your struggles. Being able to talk about your difficulties in a supportive, non-judgmental, and confidential setting, and to be deeply understood is, in itself, a very healing experience. From this point, problems can be viewed from a more insightful, and objective perspective, and specific and effective ways to bring about change can be found.
The greatest psychological need of human beings is to be understood. Not being understood, or worse, being misunderstood, is a very lonely and painful experience. Our highest aim at McKinney Psychotherapy and Counseling, is to understand you as a person, and to understand what you are going through in your struggles. Being able to talk about your difficulties in a supportive, non-judgmental, and confidential setting, and to be deeply understood is, in itself, a very healing experience. From this point, problems can be viewed from a more insightful, and objective perspective, and specific and effective ways to bring about change can be found.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
84% | Medication Management |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in McKinney, TX see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in McKinney?
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.