Psychiatrists in Athens, TX
![Photo of Pacificah Nyangau Doctor Of Nursing Practice, DNP , APRN-RN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b74b9509-ece3-4a47-a2c2-7b2f15d3e16c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pacificah Nyangau Doctor Of Nursing Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN-RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Athens, TX 75751
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
I understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. My Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to me, you are a very special person, so I am here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes.
![Photo of Shellylice Thomas, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/564a11ae-ae72-4f2f-959f-112fb2bd8823/1/320x400.png)
Shellylice Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Athens, TX 75751 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has more than 25 years of varied experience in healthcare. I provide person-centered care with the client's best interests at the forefront of any treatment decisions. My focus is to provide empathetic and accessible care to the patients with mental health problems. I am aware of the toll of mental health problems on the client's functioning in relationships, work, and study settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has more than 25 years of varied experience in healthcare. I provide person-centered care with the client's best interests at the forefront of any treatment decisions. My focus is to provide empathetic and accessible care to the patients with mental health problems. I am aware of the toll of mental health problems on the client's functioning in relationships, work, and study settings.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Chester Beyer Jr (Addiction Treatment), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc052220-a463-4ec8-9115-fb3d5e472958/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist when drugs or alcohol are involved. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist when drugs or alcohol are involved. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
![Photo of Esther Onwu - Kairos care connection, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/135c8588-5945-482c-a4be-435b7b83b8d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kairos care connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063 (Online Only)
Kairos care connection is a psychiatric Mental Health Provider, in which the pioneer has over 10 years experience working with clients various mental health problems such as Depression, Mood disorders, Anxiety, PTSD and medication management in both inpatient and outpatient. We aim to address mental issues and promote selfcare
Kairos care connection is a psychiatric Mental Health Provider, in which the pioneer has over 10 years experience working with clients various mental health problems such as Depression, Mood disorders, Anxiety, PTSD and medication management in both inpatient and outpatient. We aim to address mental issues and promote selfcare
![Photo of Catherine O'Connor - Treat Now Psychiatry, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd6a7733-a5d1-42e0-a6f0-d5d6cb14764f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Treat Now Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012
We are specialized in treating major depression, anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Panic attacks, and others We treat substance abuse disorders with Suboxone and other medications. our goal is to treat our patients through personalized, wellness recovery-focused services and treatments, designed to address their unique circumstances and needs. We work with a therapist that supports our client's treatment needs.
We are specialized in treating major depression, anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Panic attacks, and others We treat substance abuse disorders with Suboxone and other medications. our goal is to treat our patients through personalized, wellness recovery-focused services and treatments, designed to address their unique circumstances and needs. We work with a therapist that supports our client's treatment needs.
![Photo of Scheena Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b984c15-d1fa-42a6-987c-7213507bf93b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scheena Williams is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Baylor University and Walden University. Scheena is relatable, caring, and compassionate about helping patients reach their most optimal level. Outside of work, Scheena enjoys spending time with her twins, traveling, baking, and listening to many genres of music.
Scheena Williams is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Baylor University and Walden University. Scheena is relatable, caring, and compassionate about helping patients reach their most optimal level. Outside of work, Scheena enjoys spending time with her twins, traveling, baking, and listening to many genres of music.
![Photo of Victoria Benson, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1af29d3e-fd74-4939-9103-d7d4b62943cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
Clients' mental health needs are our priority. Homage Behavioral Health Clinic utilizes an evidence-based approach to provide our clients with the best quality care they need. We work with our patients individually to involve them in their care with safety measures to help them find balance and meet their individualized therapy goals. With compassion and individualized treatment plans, meeting the needs of our patients by providing quality of life is our goal.
Clients' mental health needs are our priority. Homage Behavioral Health Clinic utilizes an evidence-based approach to provide our clients with the best quality care they need. We work with our patients individually to involve them in their care with safety measures to help them find balance and meet their individualized therapy goals. With compassion and individualized treatment plans, meeting the needs of our patients by providing quality of life is our goal.
![Photo of Sylvia Otieno, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8aeeb8a-cb2e-4b17-9973-aac08d580e22/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvia Otieno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sylvia provides a safe space coupled with compassionate and non-judgmental mental health care. Her approach is that not one size fits all, and treatment plans are individualized in relationship to everyone's unique needs. Sylvia has experience in treating most mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and sleep disorders.
Sylvia Otieno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sylvia provides a safe space coupled with compassionate and non-judgmental mental health care. Her approach is that not one size fits all, and treatment plans are individualized in relationship to everyone's unique needs. Sylvia has experience in treating most mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and sleep disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Tanvi Kohli, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9ae8ee1-939f-4bb9-88cc-2bda8c1a7434/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tanvi Kohli is board-certified in general psychiatry and specializes in treating mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders in children and adolescents. Dr. Kohli focuses on psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and utilizes a biopsychosocial approach with patients. She considers the physician-patient relationship a team effort and works collaboratively with patients. Dr. Kohli is committed to providing quality care that is evidence-based and centered around her patients. Treatments include medication management, therapy, and psychoeducation.
Dr. Tanvi Kohli is board-certified in general psychiatry and specializes in treating mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders in children and adolescents. Dr. Kohli focuses on psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and utilizes a biopsychosocial approach with patients. She considers the physician-patient relationship a team effort and works collaboratively with patients. Dr. Kohli is committed to providing quality care that is evidence-based and centered around her patients. Treatments include medication management, therapy, and psychoeducation.
![Photo of Comfort Pokoo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/911b9820-3c23-4b0d-a0df-b321cdfea55a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Comfort Pokoo, l am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing for the past five years. I am passionate about caring for adults with different mental issues. My approach is to use holistic care for patients and their families. Mostly working with adults diagnosed with major depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, schizophrenia. Substance use disorder. The environment and tone have always been a safe and relaxed, always been a positive therapeutic environment.
My name is Comfort Pokoo, l am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing for the past five years. I am passionate about caring for adults with different mental issues. My approach is to use holistic care for patients and their families. Mostly working with adults diagnosed with major depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, schizophrenia. Substance use disorder. The environment and tone have always been a safe and relaxed, always been a positive therapeutic environment.
![Photo of Lekisha Caprice Pride, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df102315-01f5-4bca-a1f0-9f6e3a2343f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lekisha Caprice Pride
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225 (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 18 and older. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel safe, heard, and supported.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 18 and older. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel safe, heard, and supported.
![Photo of Fadekemi Olude - Goodness Psychiatry, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79e9b0a8-ed43-4287-b1af-81027f70db6a/1/320x400.png)
Goodness Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75051
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
![Photo of Joann Gulley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e39e26c-7c1a-486a-933e-7c5091daa118/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is JoAnn, I believe mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are having difficulty coping with life or experience a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function as your best self, let me help. Providing compassionate and quality care for my clients in a safe, nonjudgmental environment is important to me. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Texas A& M Corpus Christi and worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner since 2009.
Hello! My name is JoAnn, I believe mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are having difficulty coping with life or experience a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function as your best self, let me help. Providing compassionate and quality care for my clients in a safe, nonjudgmental environment is important to me. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Texas A& M Corpus Christi and worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner since 2009.
![Photo of Joy Ede, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89cca25c-30a0-4fec-8f58-55004a08f8f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience and 4 years of experience as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She focuses on providing care to patients across the lifespan with varying mental health disorders such as Depression Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, including other psychotic disorders. I use a holistic approach in providing care to my mental health patients whereby I employ empathy to approach my client's mental health disorders as well as their total wellbeing which includes their stress level, emotional state, and environmental factors.
Joy is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience and 4 years of experience as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She focuses on providing care to patients across the lifespan with varying mental health disorders such as Depression Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, including other psychotic disorders. I use a holistic approach in providing care to my mental health patients whereby I employ empathy to approach my client's mental health disorders as well as their total wellbeing which includes their stress level, emotional state, and environmental factors.
![Photo of Reshmi Dutta, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fde2263-d1c5-44f8-81dc-99d9e961f86a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone seeking compassionate, personalized care for mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or trauma. They need a practitioner who listens deeply, tailors treatment plans to their unique needs, and provides a safe space to explore their emotions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving their quality of life, and finding resilience. They want to be heard, supported, and empowered to reclaim their mental wellness, knowing they have a dedicated partner in their journey.
My ideal client is someone seeking compassionate, personalized care for mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or trauma. They need a practitioner who listens deeply, tailors treatment plans to their unique needs, and provides a safe space to explore their emotions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving their quality of life, and finding resilience. They want to be heard, supported, and empowered to reclaim their mental wellness, knowing they have a dedicated partner in their journey.
![Photo of Dr. Zian Omene, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a40e84f0-91ce-4469-ac51-6986877b3352/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zian Omene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
![Photo of Oluwatoyin Aluko - Mind-touch Psychiatric care, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7405f18-41bb-4355-9b03-97fae285dc3f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mind-touch Psychiatric care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
Mind Touch Clinic is a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional who is passionate about helping patients heal and live their best lives. We takes pride in providing high-quality, all-encompassing care to all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances. We are committed to providing my patients with the latest and most effective treatments available. We stay up-to-date on the latest research and developments in my field, and we constantly learn new ways to help my patients. We can help people with mental health challenges through education, support, and resource connections.
Mind Touch Clinic is a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional who is passionate about helping patients heal and live their best lives. We takes pride in providing high-quality, all-encompassing care to all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances. We are committed to providing my patients with the latest and most effective treatments available. We stay up-to-date on the latest research and developments in my field, and we constantly learn new ways to help my patients. We can help people with mental health challenges through education, support, and resource connections.
![Photo of Etienne Clement Poufong - Integrative Psychiatry Services PLLC, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd50c86-6b10-4208-b0c2-3002ab5f26f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Psychiatry Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104 (Online Only)
Over 43 million people in America and 1 out of 5 adults struggle with mental health problems. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. You don't have to suffer in silence. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Book your Appointment.
Over 43 million people in America and 1 out of 5 adults struggle with mental health problems. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. You don't have to suffer in silence. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Book your Appointment.
![Photo of Brandon L Flowers - Flowers Family Psychiatry , MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f905c6-b07b-4fb5-a075-1b2236208c3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Flowers Family Psychiatry, where compassionate care meets evidence-based practice. Flowers Family Psychiatry is committed to guiding individuals through challenging times with an open-minded, affirming, and empathetic approach. At Flowers Family Psychiatry, we understand the importance of providing non-judgmental support to individuals across the lifespan.
Welcome to Flowers Family Psychiatry, where compassionate care meets evidence-based practice. Flowers Family Psychiatry is committed to guiding individuals through challenging times with an open-minded, affirming, and empathetic approach. At Flowers Family Psychiatry, we understand the importance of providing non-judgmental support to individuals across the lifespan.
![Photo of Travis Wacha - Wacha's Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3796f91-e56d-46ad-9b1f-57e57fc27721/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wacha's Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palestine, TX 75801
Hello! I have been a nurse practitioner since 2016 and I am board certified in both family and psychiatry. I have long had a passion for serving those with mental illness and it is my joy to help clients reach their full potential. I look at the body as a whole and know that each individual has unique needs, which means they each require a specific combination of treatments to help them find wellness. I treat a range of mental health conditions and tailor each treatment plan according to your needs.
Hello! I have been a nurse practitioner since 2016 and I am board certified in both family and psychiatry. I have long had a passion for serving those with mental illness and it is my joy to help clients reach their full potential. I look at the body as a whole and know that each individual has unique needs, which means they each require a specific combination of treatments to help them find wellness. I treat a range of mental health conditions and tailor each treatment plan according to your needs.
See more therapy options for Athens
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Athens, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Athens, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Athens, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Athens?
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.