Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX
![Photo of Helen Ohene - New Era Consultancy LLC, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aacab9f7-3573-4e53-bb33-070f4015868f/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Era Consultancy LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459 (Online Only)
Helen Ohene, FNP/ PMHNP-BC Ms. Helen Ohene is a graduate from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Where she obtained her master’s and her post-master’s. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over 15 years of nursing experience across variety of settings including home health, inpatient, outpatient clinics, and psychiatric facilities. She has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals with Major Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Use disorders, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective disorders.
Helen Ohene, FNP/ PMHNP-BC Ms. Helen Ohene is a graduate from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Where she obtained her master’s and her post-master’s. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over 15 years of nursing experience across variety of settings including home health, inpatient, outpatient clinics, and psychiatric facilities. She has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals with Major Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Use disorders, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective disorders.
![Photo of Prashant Gajwani - Mind Matters Psychiatry/ Dr. Prashant Gajwani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d801bbd9-dd58-484c-82db-f0fd7cba8a92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Matters Psychiatry/ Dr. Prashant Gajwani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
When you struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other common mental health disorders, it’s easy to live life going through the motions day after day. However, with the right treatments, support, and care, you can gain control of your symptoms and enjoy life again. As the Medical Director of Mind Matters Psychiatry, I take a holistic approach to healing when it comes to your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our compassionate, patient-centered philosophy ensures individualized, comprehensive care plan in which mental health and social needs receive equal attention to traditional treatment.
When you struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other common mental health disorders, it’s easy to live life going through the motions day after day. However, with the right treatments, support, and care, you can gain control of your symptoms and enjoy life again. As the Medical Director of Mind Matters Psychiatry, I take a holistic approach to healing when it comes to your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our compassionate, patient-centered philosophy ensures individualized, comprehensive care plan in which mental health and social needs receive equal attention to traditional treatment.
![Photo of Janet Zoch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40378424-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In building a relationship with my patients, I take a comprehensive, collaborative and compassionate approach. I take the time to get to know each person both as an individual but also within the context of their family and outside relationships. I began my private practice to allow me to take the time necessary to get to know my patients and provide personalized, quality care.
In building a relationship with my patients, I take a comprehensive, collaborative and compassionate approach. I take the time to get to know each person both as an individual but also within the context of their family and outside relationships. I began my private practice to allow me to take the time necessary to get to know my patients and provide personalized, quality care.
![Photo of Sandrine Ntsang @ Tp Health Clinic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a172945-15ff-4ae5-9b9b-96e57818ef23/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sandrine Ntsang @ Tp Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
Hello, I'm Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang, a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Cameroon, I began my nursing career in Italy, specializing in neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatrics, home health, and wound care. With three years in the ICU, I pursued and earned my MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. Committed to personalized patient care, I collaborate with healthcare experts for comprehensive solutions. Beyond mental health, I provide medical and oncological nursing assistance. Join me on this journey toward holistic well-being.
Hello, I'm Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang, a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Cameroon, I began my nursing career in Italy, specializing in neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatrics, home health, and wound care. With three years in the ICU, I pursued and earned my MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. Committed to personalized patient care, I collaborate with healthcare experts for comprehensive solutions. Beyond mental health, I provide medical and oncological nursing assistance. Join me on this journey toward holistic well-being.
![Photo of Mary Adeoye - Amareiss Mental Healthcare Group, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac7e847a-aef2-4be0-9ee7-e201492da577/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amareiss Mental Healthcare Group, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459 (Online Only)
Do You Want A Balanced Life? Guess What - You are on the right path! My Name is Mary Adeoye, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I welcome you to Amareiss Mental Healthcare Group. "A Path To Balanced Life"
Do You Want A Balanced Life? Guess What - You are on the right path! My Name is Mary Adeoye, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I welcome you to Amareiss Mental Healthcare Group. "A Path To Balanced Life"
![Photo of Fahd Rawra @ Tp Health Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4728b5bc-c2ad-4a6b-be7a-696c33004730/1/320x400.png)
Greetings! I'm Dr. Fahd Rawra, MD, a seasoned Psychiatry Specialist practicing in Riverstone, TX, with over two decades of experience in the field of mental health. I earned my medical degree from Dow Medical College Karachi in 2003 and have since been on a fulfilling journey dedicated to psychiatry. My commitment to excellence led me to the University of Texas, Houston, where I completed my Internship in 2008 and Residency in 2011, further enriching my skills and knowledge. I take pride in achieving Board Certification in Psychiatry, a testament to my dedication to providing top-notch care.
Greetings! I'm Dr. Fahd Rawra, MD, a seasoned Psychiatry Specialist practicing in Riverstone, TX, with over two decades of experience in the field of mental health. I earned my medical degree from Dow Medical College Karachi in 2003 and have since been on a fulfilling journey dedicated to psychiatry. My commitment to excellence led me to the University of Texas, Houston, where I completed my Internship in 2008 and Residency in 2011, further enriching my skills and knowledge. I take pride in achieving Board Certification in Psychiatry, a testament to my dedication to providing top-notch care.
![Photo of Sherry Grogan, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88ecb976-b025-4134-958e-38091f92e116/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sherry Grogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating people who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, relationship challenges, work and academic issues, in the context of underlying mental health issues. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Master Psychopharmacologist with more than 12 years experience in the field. My practice combines the best of psychiatric medical and nursing care. Most of my patients have anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, or ADHD. My patients collaborate to find the best treatment plan to move forward with life in a healthy, more satisfied way.
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating people who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, relationship challenges, work and academic issues, in the context of underlying mental health issues. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Master Psychopharmacologist with more than 12 years experience in the field. My practice combines the best of psychiatric medical and nursing care. Most of my patients have anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, or ADHD. My patients collaborate to find the best treatment plan to move forward with life in a healthy, more satisfied way.
![Photo of Vita Chung, DNP, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edf8e6db-6a50-4481-9ed9-2af7fab68717/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vita Chung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Vita Chung is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over ten years (as of 2021) of nursing experience in Psychiatric Mental Health. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees from the UT Health San Antonio, formerly named the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Chung completed her clinical training in a wide range of psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and strives to provide up-to-date evidence-based treatment options.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Vita Chung is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over ten years (as of 2021) of nursing experience in Psychiatric Mental Health. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees from the UT Health San Antonio, formerly named the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Chung completed her clinical training in a wide range of psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and strives to provide up-to-date evidence-based treatment options.
![Photo of Francis Mbella Manga @tp-Health Clinic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d84c51b1-9473-4084-b039-298dd23ed13f/2/320x400.png)
Francis Mbella Manga @tp-Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in California. I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years now.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in California. I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years now.
![Photo of Joy Ede, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc421862-545c-476c-a0a7-f5505bf63ae2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Ede
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77489 (Online Only)
Joy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Walden University, and she has over 18 years of nursing experience in child and adult psychiatry. She believes that taking care of your mental health should be a top priority and seeking help can improve your mental and emotional health which brings about a happier and more fulfilling life. She also believes empathy heals so she uses empathic approach to enhance care with integrative and client-centered approach to restore hope and dignity in people living with mental illness.
Joy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Walden University, and she has over 18 years of nursing experience in child and adult psychiatry. She believes that taking care of your mental health should be a top priority and seeking help can improve your mental and emotional health which brings about a happier and more fulfilling life. She also believes empathy heals so she uses empathic approach to enhance care with integrative and client-centered approach to restore hope and dignity in people living with mental illness.
![Photo of Lynka Smith, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5155a40-5b3f-4745-8492-3c8216651f47/1/320x400.png)
Lynka Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459 (Online Only)
No need to leave home, I offer appointment by video. My nursing career began as a Naval Nurse Corps officer, caring for mentally ill military members, this is where my interest began. I obtained a PMHNP degree. I treat all psychiatric/mental health conditions & can prescribe medications. We will work as a team to find the best treatment options for you. Please visit my site for answers to your questions.
No need to leave home, I offer appointment by video. My nursing career began as a Naval Nurse Corps officer, caring for mentally ill military members, this is where my interest began. I obtained a PMHNP degree. I treat all psychiatric/mental health conditions & can prescribe medications. We will work as a team to find the best treatment options for you. Please visit my site for answers to your questions.
15 Second Videos
Sandrine Ntsang @ Tp Health Clinic
Fahd Rawra @ Tp Health Clinic
Francis Mbella Manga @tp-Health Clinic
Deneice Wickens
![Photo of Mark Lidasan, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14f6de93-3bdf-42df-ad2e-f1d9bec2c512/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Lidasan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I believed in integrated mental health care to optimize your mental health. I accept clients with psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and used evidence-based in the management of care. I am compassionate to help you and continually seek the best treatment available. We listen and utilize holistic approaches to provide mental health and wellness.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I believed in integrated mental health care to optimize your mental health. I accept clients with psychiatric mental health conditions across the lifespan and used evidence-based in the management of care. I am compassionate to help you and continually seek the best treatment available. We listen and utilize holistic approaches to provide mental health and wellness.
![Photo of Ashley Bednorz, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a32e17f9-a05f-49a1-8844-f9a528e076ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Bednorz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77459
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to provide mental health care across the lifespan. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After working 8 years as a nurse, I received my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner license after graduating from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2023.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to provide mental health care across the lifespan. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After working 8 years as a nurse, I received my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner license after graduating from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2023.
![Photo of Inger Daniels - Moving Forward Psychiatry, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fec4ad84-0c9e-450a-bd40-31872fc6f8b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Moving Forward Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77489
Feelings of constant worry and fear can be crippling. When sadness and hopelessness keep you from enjoying life, talking to a professional can relieve some of the burden. If mood swings, irritability and agitation are interfering with your relationships it is important to seek help. We are here to listen and guide you through the process. Our goal is to help clients be informed and involved in their care decisions.
Feelings of constant worry and fear can be crippling. When sadness and hopelessness keep you from enjoying life, talking to a professional can relieve some of the burden. If mood swings, irritability and agitation are interfering with your relationships it is important to seek help. We are here to listen and guide you through the process. Our goal is to help clients be informed and involved in their care decisions.
![Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f223588-024d-4cc5-98a1-a725de5c49d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/182c2712-af6b-4caa-ada7-62a211d8456b/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Stephanie Sim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b94c184-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
![Photo of Helen Ariwodo - Blossom Health Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8f13557-a39c-4d28-8fea-b19cfb2a1ee1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blossom Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459 (Online Only)
My name is Helen, and I have 5 years of experience working in a psychiatric mental health hospital. I have worked with different hospitals in Texas and with different age groups from adolescents to geriatrics. I am very passionate about the mental health state and well-being of my patients and most especially the safety of my patients is very paramount to me. I hold a degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified here in Texas.
My name is Helen, and I have 5 years of experience working in a psychiatric mental health hospital. I have worked with different hospitals in Texas and with different age groups from adolescents to geriatrics. I am very passionate about the mental health state and well-being of my patients and most especially the safety of my patients is very paramount to me. I hold a degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified here in Texas.
![Photo of Alina Naik - Alina Naik - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry , MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/597a9049-e072-4deb-9a3c-8293b4ff16c8/2/320x400.png)
Alina Naik - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Missouri City, TX 77489
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
![Photo of Esther Nkwanyuo, PMHNP, , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04aa5508-552c-432a-a121-56c2fac80929/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esther Nkwanyuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459 (Online Only)
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
See more therapy options for Missouri City
Nearby Searches for Missouri City
- Bellaire
- Friendswood
- Houston
- Katy
- Park Row
- Pasadena
- Pearland
- Richmond
- Rosenberg
- Stafford
- Sugar Land
- West University Place
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX
40+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
93% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Medication Management |
65% | ADHD |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
95% | Aetna |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Missouri City, TX see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Missouri City?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.