Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
![Photo of Jackie Michael - Access Behavioral Care: Faith Health and Wellness, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d0581fe-65af-49ce-95ad-ebb78abb8464/2/320x400.jpeg)
Access Behavioral Care: Faith Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
Hi, I am Jackie Michael, PhD prepared dual board-certified psychiatric provider with 35 years healthcare experience, who offers both psychotherapy and medication management options to individualize treatment according to your needs. Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Michael helps clients heal, energize, and optimize their emotional health by becoming aware of their own inner strengths and lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle!
![Photo of Bridgette Jones - JonesWay Psychiatry PLLC, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efd10694-35ab-4ff3-9092-0b0787ff3558/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatry physician based in Texas, my mission at JonesWay Psychiatry is to provide compassionate care that promotes mental wellness and provides insight and education to all who need it. I want to create a safe space for healing and growth. I am dedicated to guiding you on your journey to emotional well-being. Together, we can empower you to navigate life's challenges and key into your given strengths. Your mental wellness and wholeness are my priority, and I want to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this transformative process together.
As a psychiatry physician based in Texas, my mission at JonesWay Psychiatry is to provide compassionate care that promotes mental wellness and provides insight and education to all who need it. I want to create a safe space for healing and growth. I am dedicated to guiding you on your journey to emotional well-being. Together, we can empower you to navigate life's challenges and key into your given strengths. Your mental wellness and wholeness are my priority, and I want to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this transformative process together.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b069587d-3dc2-4a94-9593-4f4e77e200c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
![Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/040233d9-c289-40af-9a16-e0ff746d4715/1/320x400.png)
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75224 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Donavan Scott, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed04fead-19df-480a-be5c-91bb8dae13ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Donavan, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you been feeling down lately? How about feeling like you have been running a marathon but none of your planned tasks have been completed.
Hello, my name is Donavan, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you been feeling down lately? How about feeling like you have been running a marathon but none of your planned tasks have been completed.
![Photo of Kendall P. Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66b252ac-a63e-496b-9bd1-f935bdaaf8fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting patients for a wait list, for patients via telehealth . If you call through Psychology Today, I will return calls via a 469 - ### ##99 number and text ahead that I will call. Any contacts with me, are, of course, kept completely confidential. My clinic is currently focused on help with psychotherapy (specifically for problems with depression, nervousness, conflict, and anger), developmental genetics, geriatrics, and end of life care. I focus on the patient's goals and barriers to those goals, and on sources of distress. If you have any questions with a clinical matter, please call.
I am currently accepting patients for a wait list, for patients via telehealth . If you call through Psychology Today, I will return calls via a 469 - ### ##99 number and text ahead that I will call. Any contacts with me, are, of course, kept completely confidential. My clinic is currently focused on help with psychotherapy (specifically for problems with depression, nervousness, conflict, and anger), developmental genetics, geriatrics, and end of life care. I focus on the patient's goals and barriers to those goals, and on sources of distress. If you have any questions with a clinical matter, please call.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94176e6b-3cac-4355-a656-907776bcb6c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Oluchi Onebunne, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/373dddd4-3ca4-4b24-a937-9bcf02f0bfd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oluchi Onebunne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243 (Online Only)
Are you going through mental health challenges? Remember that our limitations or struggles should not determine our identity. We individualized care as well as utilizing personalized treatment methods, evidence-based practices, and adopting a holistic approach to promote overall well-being. We specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions, including treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD in children, personality disorders, and mood disorders. You need not confront your challenges in isolation; allow us to offer you the exceptional care you deserve. We welcome new patients!
Are you going through mental health challenges? Remember that our limitations or struggles should not determine our identity. We individualized care as well as utilizing personalized treatment methods, evidence-based practices, and adopting a holistic approach to promote overall well-being. We specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions, including treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD in children, personality disorders, and mood disorders. You need not confront your challenges in isolation; allow us to offer you the exceptional care you deserve. We welcome new patients!
![Photo of Melinda Pitts - A Therapized Life (ATL), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9328db0e-eaf6-462c-af96-8a16ac349071/2/320x400.png)
A Therapized Life (ATL)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208 (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with the typical psychiatric healthcare system? Do you often feel like your provider is simply prescribing medications without listening to your concerns? If that has been your experience, then Melinda is the provider for you!
Are you frustrated with the typical psychiatric healthcare system? Do you often feel like your provider is simply prescribing medications without listening to your concerns? If that has been your experience, then Melinda is the provider for you!
![Photo of Britton Bahador, LMSW, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe7c0fec-8819-40d6-a0e3-a214e9e7f2e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Britton Bahador
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75220
Saturday appointments available. People of all ages and backgrounds reach out for mental health care and treatment for a variety of reasons, including- depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and emotional disturbances as a result of life circumstances. People want to feel understood and supported on their path to finding mental and individual wellness for themselves or their loved ones. Mental health care should be patient, supportive, and a collaborate approach between individual and practitioner and be tailored to each individuals' specific needs.
Saturday appointments available. People of all ages and backgrounds reach out for mental health care and treatment for a variety of reasons, including- depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and emotional disturbances as a result of life circumstances. People want to feel understood and supported on their path to finding mental and individual wellness for themselves or their loved ones. Mental health care should be patient, supportive, and a collaborate approach between individual and practitioner and be tailored to each individuals' specific needs.
![Photo of Jelilat Buhari, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36d96c0d-1781-4195-bf3f-d718d82d2f81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jelilat Buhari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Jelilat. Are you struggling with Depression , anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, Addictions, ADHD and other life changing challenges the world throws at you? Do you feel like the world is crumbling down on you, and you don't know what else to do? Look no further. I am here to give you listening ears . Let's tackle these problems together. You don't have to journey alone .
Hi there, I'm Jelilat. Are you struggling with Depression , anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, Addictions, ADHD and other life changing challenges the world throws at you? Do you feel like the world is crumbling down on you, and you don't know what else to do? Look no further. I am here to give you listening ears . Let's tackle these problems together. You don't have to journey alone .
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![Photo of Honorine Betah, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9db874ad-292e-4a6e-ab7d-e5b4cd3df4d9/2/320x400.png)
Honorine Betah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Honorine Betah, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the field. Have you been struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship difficulties/life transitions, or other mental health concerns that are impacting your daily functioning and quality of life? I am currently accepting new clients across Texas, Minnesota, and Washington State. Through convenient telehealth services, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management to clients across the lifespan (ages 6 and up).
Hi there! My name is Honorine Betah, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the field. Have you been struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship difficulties/life transitions, or other mental health concerns that are impacting your daily functioning and quality of life? I am currently accepting new clients across Texas, Minnesota, and Washington State. Through convenient telehealth services, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management to clients across the lifespan (ages 6 and up).
![Photo of Gwen Shipe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c198efa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
![Photo of Dr. Jarrod Tunnell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6b66f1d-1407-410b-8197-f72ccab7277c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
My goal is to give you the best care possible. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, behavioral problems in children, and other psychiatric conditions. My ideal patient wants to develop insight into their lives and to learn practical skills to work through difficult emotions.
![Photo of Julie Yankowsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc5d2136-2fd1-4d5f-af95-883f631f8e3a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
![Photo of Jyotsna Muttineni, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0809609-5a5a-4540-98e9-dc355d8d4c6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Muttineni is a board certified general, child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has worked in different settings (inpatient, partial hospital and intensive outpatient and outpatient) in the DFW metroplex area. She is excited to provide outpatient psychiatric services with focus on individual care in her clinic. Dr. Muttineni understands the challenges faced when a person or a loved one faces mental health issues. She spends time with her patients and families during the appointments, develops evidence based individualized treatment plans and makes referrals as needed.
Dr. Muttineni is a board certified general, child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has worked in different settings (inpatient, partial hospital and intensive outpatient and outpatient) in the DFW metroplex area. She is excited to provide outpatient psychiatric services with focus on individual care in her clinic. Dr. Muttineni understands the challenges faced when a person or a loved one faces mental health issues. She spends time with her patients and families during the appointments, develops evidence based individualized treatment plans and makes referrals as needed.
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cc3120d-cddb-4e80-ad28-8bdf72606183/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Picture navigating life’s hurdles, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client is someone looking for understanding and practical solutions to their mental health concerns. They aspire to regain control, rediscover hope, and lead a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re in search of a therapeutic environment at Legion Health where respect and empowerment are paramount, you’ve found the right place.
Picture navigating life’s hurdles, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client is someone looking for understanding and practical solutions to their mental health concerns. They aspire to regain control, rediscover hope, and lead a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re in search of a therapeutic environment at Legion Health where respect and empowerment are paramount, you’ve found the right place.
![Photo of Wolfgang Rosenfeldt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a05f31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
![Photo of Dr. Peace Bosire Okienya - 24-7 Shalom Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22c7413c-581d-4db8-ad2e-a6af8ae36986/2/320x400.jpeg)
24-7 Shalom Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219 (Online Only)
My expertise is in treating patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD who are seeking compassionate, personalized care. If you've experienced feeling overwhelmed, lost or hopeless you've come to the right place. Thorough an empathetic assessment, a tailored treatment plan, and ongoing support, I help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
My expertise is in treating patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD who are seeking compassionate, personalized care. If you've experienced feeling overwhelmed, lost or hopeless you've come to the right place. Thorough an empathetic assessment, a tailored treatment plan, and ongoing support, I help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4b17add-3ab1-46a4-ad64-e12f49296e67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
400+
Average cost per session
$185
Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas?
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.