Psychiatrists in Houston, TX
![Photo of Esther Odaibo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db811346-efb9-4ff5-b760-eff7db97fd5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Esther a psychiatric mental health NP. I've been in the healthcare profession for fifteen years and have been a PMHNP since 2019. I enjoy getting to know my patients and working with them as a team to achieve and maintain sustainable treatment goals.
Hello, I'm Esther a psychiatric mental health NP. I've been in the healthcare profession for fifteen years and have been a PMHNP since 2019. I enjoy getting to know my patients and working with them as a team to achieve and maintain sustainable treatment goals.
![Photo of Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89c3d8bb-35b9-43e8-880f-18e834045215/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
![Photo of Boris Rubashkin - Memorial TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4539e6d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Boris Rubashkin was born and educated in St. Petersburg, Russia. He graduated 1969 and took his psychiatric residency in 1973. He immigrated to the United States in 1974 and spent five years working in a mental health field in Minnesota. With his desire to escape from the cold weather, he moved to a warmer climate of Houston, Texas. From 1979 - 1983, he worked at University of Texas Health Science Psychiatric Residency. In 1983, he went into private practice. In 1997, he also became a consulting psychiatrist to Long Term Care Facilities. Additionally, he cofounded Behavioral Health Consultants, a multi-specialty outpatient psychiatric office.
Boris Rubashkin was born and educated in St. Petersburg, Russia. He graduated 1969 and took his psychiatric residency in 1973. He immigrated to the United States in 1974 and spent five years working in a mental health field in Minnesota. With his desire to escape from the cold weather, he moved to a warmer climate of Houston, Texas. From 1979 - 1983, he worked at University of Texas Health Science Psychiatric Residency. In 1983, he went into private practice. In 1997, he also became a consulting psychiatrist to Long Term Care Facilities. Additionally, he cofounded Behavioral Health Consultants, a multi-specialty outpatient psychiatric office.
![Photo of Barkat Ali, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26599829-20f7-4338-8dd5-91cc29946867/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I graduated from the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro Sindh, with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). I also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, in 2016. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in 2022 from Northern Kentucky University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (lifespan), licensed in Texas.
Hello, I graduated from the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro Sindh, with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). I also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, in 2016. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in 2022 from Northern Kentucky University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (lifespan), licensed in Texas.
![Photo of Catherine Wachira, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e537ff8-ff62-4d0f-b523-923f8bd3d954/2/320x400.jpeg)
It has always brought me great joy and fulfillment to be part of my patient’s journey, from seeking care to getting healed, through the best care I have been able to offer at their most vulnerable time of need. Having had firsthand experience with my fellow military colleagues, and my experience in clinical practice, the severity of mental health is not to be taken lightly.
It has always brought me great joy and fulfillment to be part of my patient’s journey, from seeking care to getting healed, through the best care I have been able to offer at their most vulnerable time of need. Having had firsthand experience with my fellow military colleagues, and my experience in clinical practice, the severity of mental health is not to be taken lightly.
![Photo of Maher Chehab, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d9abd05-3807-4395-95c8-f2c5392994b4/2/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Maher Chehab and offer immediate face to face and tele visits. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with education and training in treating clients with mental health conditions across the lifespan.
Hello, my name is Maher Chehab and offer immediate face to face and tele visits. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with education and training in treating clients with mental health conditions across the lifespan.
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb44e045-e476-460f-878a-06b29428afde/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77042 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Rizwan Ali - Present Telepsychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a6a8438-0543-4208-8f39-01389b805e55/2/320x400.jpeg)
Present Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008 (Online Only)
Our goal is to understand our client’s chief complaints, accurately diagnose them, and formulate a treatment plan specifically to that client’s needs. Empathetic listening is the cornerstone of our interview process. We take time to get to know our clients without being judgmental. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. We take a holistic evidence-based approach to improve a patient’s quality of life rather than trying to fix one problem.
Our goal is to understand our client’s chief complaints, accurately diagnose them, and formulate a treatment plan specifically to that client’s needs. Empathetic listening is the cornerstone of our interview process. We take time to get to know our clients without being judgmental. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. We take a holistic evidence-based approach to improve a patient’s quality of life rather than trying to fix one problem.
![Photo of Victor Zamora, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a43224c5-01b5-4718-8150-93fac961a9f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victor is a board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and provides psychiatric evaluations, and medication management for patients ranging from ages 6 to adults. We strive to help those suffering with mental illness issues and to give them a better quality of life. We are invested in helping you feel your very best by supporting your personal growth, insight and self-empowerment.
Victor is a board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and provides psychiatric evaluations, and medication management for patients ranging from ages 6 to adults. We strive to help those suffering with mental illness issues and to give them a better quality of life. We are invested in helping you feel your very best by supporting your personal growth, insight and self-empowerment.
![Photo of Kriste Babbitt - Your Wellness Practice, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7be9085-b877-41ac-83cb-2f0a55fafbb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your Wellness Practice integrates traditional psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy, ketamine therapies, transcranial magnetic stimulation, neurotherapy, functional medicine, and an array of alternative, holistic treatments to restore wellness to our patients. Our team has decades of experience providing compassionate, person-centered, and attuned care that extends beyond traditional standards. We deliver comprehensive and innovative treatment because we are passionate about our work, and about the results we see in our patients.
Your Wellness Practice integrates traditional psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy, ketamine therapies, transcranial magnetic stimulation, neurotherapy, functional medicine, and an array of alternative, holistic treatments to restore wellness to our patients. Our team has decades of experience providing compassionate, person-centered, and attuned care that extends beyond traditional standards. We deliver comprehensive and innovative treatment because we are passionate about our work, and about the results we see in our patients.
![Photo of Tom Rodriguez - Houston Mind Body Counseling, PhD, RN, ANP, PMHCNS, CCH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c653872-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Houston Mind Body Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, ANP, PMHCNS, CCH
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77040
I am an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. My practice is located at HWY 290 and Hollister in Houston, Texas. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication, and psychotherapy. I treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program was completed through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology. Additionally, I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy, couple's counseling, family therapy, group therapy, and as a clinical hypnotherapist.
I am an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. My practice is located at HWY 290 and Hollister in Houston, Texas. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication, and psychotherapy. I treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program was completed through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology. Additionally, I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy, couple's counseling, family therapy, group therapy, and as a clinical hypnotherapist.
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![Photo of Dr. Nkechi Ukomadu - Eshcol Clinic LLC, DNP, PMHNP-, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00d2c8b0-6e9b-461d-8a48-02e040bae06c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eshcol Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77036 (Online Only)
We are accepting patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 9 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
We are accepting patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 9 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
![Photo of Cynthia A Okojie - Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78aab222-be32-46df-8e34-3f51af1b24a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057 (Online Only)
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
![Photo of Cynthia A Okojie - Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC, BSN, RN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1cb513a-c2e3-4cf4-bcde-ac0377498f6c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057 (Online Only)
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
![Photo of Kimberly Epperson, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db5fa461-5c80-4ba2-9384-5fdf46459fb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Epperson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
Here at Epperson's Behavioral Healthcare, I can promise you that you will be delivered the best quality care possible. I come with many years of experience dealing with patients, young and old, including veterans who suffer from mental illness. From all nursing spectrums from a licensed vocational nurse to a master's prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have had the privilege with working with children, adolescents, older adults and the elderly suffering for an array of mental illnesses.
Here at Epperson's Behavioral Healthcare, I can promise you that you will be delivered the best quality care possible. I come with many years of experience dealing with patients, young and old, including veterans who suffer from mental illness. From all nursing spectrums from a licensed vocational nurse to a master's prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have had the privilege with working with children, adolescents, older adults and the elderly suffering for an array of mental illnesses.
![Photo of Linda Ngose Simo, MSN, ARNP-CN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc01fa2c-eeb4-4d9d-b386-18213d5cfbe1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Ngose Simo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77060 (Online Only)
I’m especially interested in young teenagers, adults, and the geriatric population including the LGBTQ community suffering with mental health issues.
I’m especially interested in young teenagers, adults, and the geriatric population including the LGBTQ community suffering with mental health issues.
![Photo of Dr. Jessie DiCarlo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ba8a376-a07f-44fb-b0ae-e2736740bd50/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. DiCarlo is a physician/medical doctor specializing in adult and child psychiatry. At The Menninger Clinic, Texas Children's Hospital, and Tufts Medical Center, Dr. DiCarlo trained with leaders in psychoanalytic and family therapies, advanced psychopharmacology, and evidence-based medicine. Dr. DiCarlo helps people with a wide variety of problems including trauma, depression, anxiety, and psychosis. In most cases, she leans strongly into the importance of psychotherapy. When medications are prescribed, it is typically with thoughtful integration of psychotherapy as well.
Dr. DiCarlo is a physician/medical doctor specializing in adult and child psychiatry. At The Menninger Clinic, Texas Children's Hospital, and Tufts Medical Center, Dr. DiCarlo trained with leaders in psychoanalytic and family therapies, advanced psychopharmacology, and evidence-based medicine. Dr. DiCarlo helps people with a wide variety of problems including trauma, depression, anxiety, and psychosis. In most cases, she leans strongly into the importance of psychotherapy. When medications are prescribed, it is typically with thoughtful integration of psychotherapy as well.
![Photo of Laracel D'Andrea, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85a45d0e-0bc6-4fea-9971-a983fb254ca0/1/320x400.jpeg)
NP Laracel D'Andrea is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Wyoming. She has always had a passion for psychology and the study of human nature, and received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology before completing her nursing degree. She sees the role of a psychiatric nurse practitioner as a bridge between psychology and medicine. Her approach involves treating each person spiritually, mentally, and physically through pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments.
NP Laracel D'Andrea is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Wyoming. She has always had a passion for psychology and the study of human nature, and received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology before completing her nursing degree. She sees the role of a psychiatric nurse practitioner as a bridge between psychology and medicine. Her approach involves treating each person spiritually, mentally, and physically through pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments.
![Photo of Vivian Elege - Vivique Psychiatry , DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26fe487c-a3e8-4fdc-8fe0-c6b51bacfa74/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vivique Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77082
I have over 20 years of extensive expertise in nursing, spanning from internal medicine to psychiatry. I believe in a holistic approach towards treatment and aims to address contributing factors leading to less-than-optimal quality of life for my patients. I find it important to explore both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment methods, while also incorporating good physical health and lifestyle changes. I have a special interest in reducing the stigma related to mental health. At Vivique Psychiatry, we focus on leveraging the unique strengths, challenges and needs of each individual by focusing on the positive.
I have over 20 years of extensive expertise in nursing, spanning from internal medicine to psychiatry. I believe in a holistic approach towards treatment and aims to address contributing factors leading to less-than-optimal quality of life for my patients. I find it important to explore both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment methods, while also incorporating good physical health and lifestyle changes. I have a special interest in reducing the stigma related to mental health. At Vivique Psychiatry, we focus on leveraging the unique strengths, challenges and needs of each individual by focusing on the positive.
![Photo of Shanell Noble, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb877dc5-653e-4c8c-a496-51fab586d709/1/320x400.png)
If you're seeking a provider who truly understands your journey, I'm here to listen and support you. My personal experiences with childhood abuse, the devastating loss of a child, and raising children with bipolar disorder and autism have deeply shaped my understanding of trauma, grief, and the unique challenges of metal health. This lived experience, combined with my professional training as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, allows me to offer compassionate and insightful telehealth care.
If you're seeking a provider who truly understands your journey, I'm here to listen and support you. My personal experiences with childhood abuse, the devastating loss of a child, and raising children with bipolar disorder and autism have deeply shaped my understanding of trauma, grief, and the unique challenges of metal health. This lived experience, combined with my professional training as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, allows me to offer compassionate and insightful telehealth care.
See more therapy options for Houston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Houston, TX
600+
Average cost per session
$185
Psychiatrists in Houston, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Houston, TX see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Houston?
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.