Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX
![Photo of Diana Ricketts - DFW Collaborative Behavioral Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdf9e6be-a628-4932-89bd-7d0bb8e9fe68/1/320x400.png)
DFW Collaborative Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76016
Are you struggling with managing the complexities of your mental health? As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am here to support individuals who seek compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. My ideal clients are those who are ready to embark on a journey towards improved well-being and are looking for a partner in their mental health care. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I am committed to helping you navigate your path to a healthier, more balanced life. Take the first step towards prioritizing your mental health today.
Are you struggling with managing the complexities of your mental health? As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am here to support individuals who seek compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. My ideal clients are those who are ready to embark on a journey towards improved well-being and are looking for a partner in their mental health care. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I am committed to helping you navigate your path to a healthier, more balanced life. Take the first step towards prioritizing your mental health today.
![Photo of Katie Kesterson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6a9205-b25a-4a3a-bc46-984f98da8d5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Kesterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012
Katie is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in Psychiatry to serve clients throughout the lifespan. Katie received her BSN from Midwestern State University in 2011 and then her MSN from Walden University in 2021. Katie works with clients across the lifespan experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. Her treatment model emphasizes providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment while allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
Katie is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in Psychiatry to serve clients throughout the lifespan. Katie received her BSN from Midwestern State University in 2011 and then her MSN from Walden University in 2021. Katie works with clients across the lifespan experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. Her treatment model emphasizes providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment while allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Morgan Monterroso, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b7b0fa9-49c8-4ddc-bf90-5d4777a9e283/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Monterroso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76012
Hello! Are you interested in a personal, empathetic approach to mental health treatment? My name is Morgan, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My goal for your treatment is to foster a safe, nurturing space where you feel heard and empowered to heal and grow. Together, we'll cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and strategies for life's challenges.
Hello! Are you interested in a personal, empathetic approach to mental health treatment? My name is Morgan, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My goal for your treatment is to foster a safe, nurturing space where you feel heard and empowered to heal and grow. Together, we'll cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and strategies for life's challenges.
![Photo of Nkechi Nduka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/518b3f9f-b21d-49b7-a9a8-77c8ac1487f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
![Photo of Titilope Lawal-Johnson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/366da099-064e-495f-83bb-98961cc68e4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Titilope Lawal-Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76018 (Online Only)
My name is Titilope Lawal-Johnson. I am a PMHNP who has been practicing in healthcare as a whole for the past 15 years. I take pride in helping others be their best. We first complete a detailed evaluation, arrive at a diagnosis, then develop an individualized plan of care to address the issues that are most important to our patients.
My name is Titilope Lawal-Johnson. I am a PMHNP who has been practicing in healthcare as a whole for the past 15 years. I take pride in helping others be their best. We first complete a detailed evaluation, arrive at a diagnosis, then develop an individualized plan of care to address the issues that are most important to our patients.
Adegboyega Omoba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76010
Adegboyega Omoba is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with seven years of experience in the field of psychiatric nursing. After developing a deep passion and calling for working within the mental health field, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tarleton State University, before going on to complete his Master of Science in Family Psychiatric Nursing at the University of South Alabama, Alabama. He currently holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice at same University. His previous positions include five years as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse at Arlington Memorial Hospital Behavioral
Adegboyega Omoba is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with seven years of experience in the field of psychiatric nursing. After developing a deep passion and calling for working within the mental health field, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tarleton State University, before going on to complete his Master of Science in Family Psychiatric Nursing at the University of South Alabama, Alabama. He currently holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice at same University. His previous positions include five years as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse at Arlington Memorial Hospital Behavioral
![Photo of Naomi Powell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd202428-f761-4101-9113-b688bf52f766/1/320x400.png)
Naomi Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76016 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My name is Naomi Powell. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in healthcare for over 17 years. It is okay not to be okay. Getting help for your mental illness is brave and the first step toward a happy, healthy, and fulfilled life. Each treatment plan is patient-centered. We can fix your illness together.
My name is Naomi Powell. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in healthcare for over 17 years. It is okay not to be okay. Getting help for your mental illness is brave and the first step toward a happy, healthy, and fulfilled life. Each treatment plan is patient-centered. We can fix your illness together.
![Photo of Dr. Sulaimon A Bakre, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b879f79-c302-4cda-9228-15e45a092934/1/320x400.jpeg)
Appointment Availability as early as SAME Day to within 1 WEEK! Have you been struggling? Feeling down in the dumps? Having no motivation to do the things you used to find pleasurable? Feeling hopeless, worthless, helpless? Feeling anxious and worrying all the time? Having trouble focusing and completing your daily activities? Do you want to get back to feeling good about yourself and the world around you and attain holistic mental wellness? We at Optimus Psychiatry are here to help you get to your goals. We listen to you, we support you, and we journey with you towards holistic mental wellness.
Appointment Availability as early as SAME Day to within 1 WEEK! Have you been struggling? Feeling down in the dumps? Having no motivation to do the things you used to find pleasurable? Feeling hopeless, worthless, helpless? Feeling anxious and worrying all the time? Having trouble focusing and completing your daily activities? Do you want to get back to feeling good about yourself and the world around you and attain holistic mental wellness? We at Optimus Psychiatry are here to help you get to your goals. We listen to you, we support you, and we journey with you towards holistic mental wellness.
![Photo of Joseph Micci, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad9d7214-815e-41ef-8000-9331d6de8486/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Micci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012
Joseph Micci is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University where he then worked at John Peter Smith Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry for 6 years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Joe works with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing a calm and supportive environment.
Joseph Micci is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University where he then worked at John Peter Smith Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry for 6 years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Joe works with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing a calm and supportive environment.
![Photo of Adeline Abam, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd00d10c-5008-4d17-9df7-7c8f456cad02/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adeline Abam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76006 (Online Only)
Are you scared, suffering, and feeling lonely? Do you want someone to talk to you? Someone to listen? I am here. You don’t have to walk Your health journey alone. Let me be your Provider. Mental health is REAL. I will listen. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. A plan to target your needs. I will treat you as an individual and make a customized plan just for you. I have over 7 years experience as a health care provider with diverse skills and experience . I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am a dual-licensed NP as PMHNP & FNP. I also work closely with a Clinical therapist
Are you scared, suffering, and feeling lonely? Do you want someone to talk to you? Someone to listen? I am here. You don’t have to walk Your health journey alone. Let me be your Provider. Mental health is REAL. I will listen. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. A plan to target your needs. I will treat you as an individual and make a customized plan just for you. I have over 7 years experience as a health care provider with diverse skills and experience . I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am a dual-licensed NP as PMHNP & FNP. I also work closely with a Clinical therapist
![Photo of Caroline Tomlinson - Kemunto Psychiatric Solutions LLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eee3621-52d4-407c-ba1f-b0e21bcee21b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kemunto Psychiatric Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, NP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
Dr. Caroline Tomlinson DNP PMHNP-BC is board certified by American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 10 years' experience in Psychiatry. Dr. Tomlinson provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with individualized care for every patient. She treats a wide range of mental health issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Addiction and other psychiatric disorders. She also offers one-on-one psychotherapy. Each individual is involved in the formulation of their plan of care
Dr. Caroline Tomlinson DNP PMHNP-BC is board certified by American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 10 years' experience in Psychiatry. Dr. Tomlinson provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with individualized care for every patient. She treats a wide range of mental health issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Addiction and other psychiatric disorders. She also offers one-on-one psychotherapy. Each individual is involved in the formulation of their plan of care
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![Photo of Victoria Agudah, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ceda41df-6b58-4e7d-ac1d-35b89968a315/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Agudah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76017 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be a significant step, one that requires courage and trust. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. I want to extend my warmest welcome to you and assure you that you are in a safe and supportive space.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be a significant step, one that requires courage and trust. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. I want to extend my warmest welcome to you and assure you that you are in a safe and supportive space.
![Photo of Sheilah Liech, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a81cc06-691d-4288-9a6f-19e68a2f5347/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling sad, helpless, anxious and overwhelmed? I treat patients with these symptoms, and I'm here to help. I specialize in working with clients age 5 and up who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis and sleep problems.
Are you feeling sad, helpless, anxious and overwhelmed? I treat patients with these symptoms, and I'm here to help. I specialize in working with clients age 5 and up who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis and sleep problems.
![Photo of Omotayo Gbengaojo, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bb5c546-2574-4ea1-a27c-764add72190d/2/320x400.png)
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
![Photo of Anselm Onyeneke, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/994319bd-dd50-40a7-9e02-725792ac70e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anselm Onyeneke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76010 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health concerns. My approach is centered on meeting the diverse needs of my clients with empathy and understanding. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their mental health journey.
![Photo of Agather Onyango, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/590505be-d2b7-448d-9f55-467cd25cc5e5/3/320x400.png)
Are you feeling down or anxious? Does life feel too difficult or overwhelming? Are you having stress related to past trauma? Are you going through grief? Do you have difficulty with attention and focus? We can help with these problems and more. We can help you find relief. We treat individuals from any back ground; regardless of race religion or beliefs, family formation, gender identity or disability.
Are you feeling down or anxious? Does life feel too difficult or overwhelming? Are you having stress related to past trauma? Are you going through grief? Do you have difficulty with attention and focus? We can help with these problems and more. We can help you find relief. We treat individuals from any back ground; regardless of race religion or beliefs, family formation, gender identity or disability.
![Photo of Ayisha Sanda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9358d806-5e14-458c-9600-e7a2b7aa010d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more .Call -503-662-9385 to book an appointment today. We provide ADHD testing.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more .Call -503-662-9385 to book an appointment today. We provide ADHD testing.
![Photo of Adewunmi Julius Bankole, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aff84d07-88e0-4d62-af47-eb0a1a2c99eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adewunmi Julius Bankole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76006
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. I am passionate about making sure that clients have a holistic care experience. My approach to treatment is emphasized on the importance of understanding your emotional stressors and helping you navigate complex relationships with co-workers, friends and families. I am an active listener and passionate about making you feel better. You will be glad you reached out to us.
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. I am passionate about making sure that clients have a holistic care experience. My approach to treatment is emphasized on the importance of understanding your emotional stressors and helping you navigate complex relationships with co-workers, friends and families. I am an active listener and passionate about making you feel better. You will be glad you reached out to us.
![Photo of Patricia Nkhono - Preferred Partners Healthcare Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4046e9f1-75c4-447a-9c2c-cee0f232223a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Preferred Partners Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
Patricia Nkhono MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, graduated with a master's degree in nursing from the College of Health Science at Walden University in Minneapolis and became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Patricia holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and worked as a registered nurse in a number of hospitals, including Parkland Hospital and UT Southwestern Medical Center.
Patricia Nkhono MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, graduated with a master's degree in nursing from the College of Health Science at Walden University in Minneapolis and became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Patricia holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and worked as a registered nurse in a number of hospitals, including Parkland Hospital and UT Southwestern Medical Center.
![Photo of Smink Achila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01d0f404-14be-4cd7-aa16-d81c101fe9e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76011
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
See more therapy options for Arlington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
87% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Arlington, TX see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arlington?
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.