Psychiatrists in Bastrop County, TX
![Photo of Dr. Sandra Dunkin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5018d791-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.
Welcome to BrainWell, where your mental health journey is met with compassion and carefully tailored solutions. I'm Dr. Sandra Dunkin, and I specialize in providing personalized psychiatric care to individuals in Bastrop and its surrounding communities. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, shaped by their individual story, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and goals. That's why I believe in a personalized approach, where all these factors are taken into consideration to create a treatment plan that's uniquely yours.
![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
Elgin, TX 78621 (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 Prasanna Sharma - Prasanna Sharma - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f493d99-9c41-4b4e-ba8c-c8a14e2a8934/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prasanna Sharma - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Elgin, TX 78621
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.
![Photo of Kayode Zacchaeus Oluwayomi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79eebd89-b571-408a-9f23-7205bd12298e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayode Zacchaeus Oluwayomi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bastrop, TX 78602 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.
![Photo of Wolfgang Rosenfeldt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a05f31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? I am here to help - I offer a deep psychological perspective. Brain-chemistry and mind-psychology: I treat both. I am a psychoanalyst as well as medication-prescribing psychiatrist. I treat the whole patient. Medication often gives quicker relief -however, with our hard work together in psychotherapy, we will have the best hope for healing - something I hope to give to you.
![Photo of 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
Bastrop, TX 78602
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jodie L Hopkins - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cff23e4c-6506-483b-afca-72a2e42e40db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
![Photo of Sonia Ike, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5888b06c-120a-4f1b-99e5-646a8265902b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) passionate about helping individuals become care for their mind and express themselves. The brain, like any other organ in the body, needs care and attention. We specialize in helping clients cope with stressful diagnoses such as cancers, diabetes, terminal illnesses, STD/STIs, and mental illnesses. It can be difficult struggling with a new diagnosis and not having anyone to talk to. A new diagnosis does not have to be daunting or defining! We are devoted to patient-centered and compassionate care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) passionate about helping individuals become care for their mind and express themselves. The brain, like any other organ in the body, needs care and attention. We specialize in helping clients cope with stressful diagnoses such as cancers, diabetes, terminal illnesses, STD/STIs, and mental illnesses. It can be difficult struggling with a new diagnosis and not having anyone to talk to. A new diagnosis does not have to be daunting or defining! We are devoted to patient-centered and compassionate care.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/383a9775-cf5e-425e-9c38-f6edd568b4c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
![Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fd91770-c98b-4443-bec2-0f4370c73c15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204 (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
![Photo of Brent Jakubec, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e98e06c8-96f8-4530-8fbc-22f18d243dee/1/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal patient for a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist seeks support navigating diverse mental health challenges across the lifespan. In the case of a child or adolescent, they may be grappling with issues like academic stress, social difficulties, or emerging mental health concerns. The goal is to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping mechanisms during this formative period. For adults, the ideal client might be facing a range of issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or workplace stress.
The ideal patient for a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist seeks support navigating diverse mental health challenges across the lifespan. In the case of a child or adolescent, they may be grappling with issues like academic stress, social difficulties, or emerging mental health concerns. The goal is to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping mechanisms during this formative period. For adults, the ideal client might be facing a range of issues such as mood disorders, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or workplace stress.
The treatment philosophy in my practice is focused on a comprehensive initial evaluation and then setting up realistic therapeutic goals to achieve in the treatment process. Clients will find a professional, caring, and an empathetic approach where their supports system and other health care providers, when appropriate, will be part of the treatment team in order to facilitate a better treatment outcome. This approach in my experience has a higher potential for a better outcome in reaching the therapeutic goals of healing and recovery.
The treatment philosophy in my practice is focused on a comprehensive initial evaluation and then setting up realistic therapeutic goals to achieve in the treatment process. Clients will find a professional, caring, and an empathetic approach where their supports system and other health care providers, when appropriate, will be part of the treatment team in order to facilitate a better treatment outcome. This approach in my experience has a higher potential for a better outcome in reaching the therapeutic goals of healing and recovery.
![Photo of Olumayowa Omoyeni, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78f5a7d5-3917-421d-ba80-810187c80fdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olumayowa Omoyeni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78737
Mayowa Omoyeni is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from The University of Texas at Arlington and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She has experience treating individuals across the lifespan including, but not limited to those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. She believes in treating the patient as a whole, while considering mental, physical, environmental, and social factors. She is passionate about providing access to high quality mental health care.
Mayowa Omoyeni is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from The University of Texas at Arlington and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She has experience treating individuals across the lifespan including, but not limited to those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. She believes in treating the patient as a whole, while considering mental, physical, environmental, and social factors. She is passionate about providing access to high quality mental health care.
![Photo of Arif Noorbaksh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c98c291-9bb6-46a7-b6b5-f7e6f6f59c25/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to meet you where you are on your individual journey - no two people are the same. To get started attend your initial evaluation and let's talk through your experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the lived experience, current symptoms, and treatment preferences. Treatment planning is collaborative. Your preferences and goals are essential in finding the best route for care. Potential treatment modalities include medications, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, behavioral interventions, and supplementation.
I strive to meet you where you are on your individual journey - no two people are the same. To get started attend your initial evaluation and let's talk through your experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the lived experience, current symptoms, and treatment preferences. Treatment planning is collaborative. Your preferences and goals are essential in finding the best route for care. Potential treatment modalities include medications, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, behavioral interventions, and supplementation.
![Photo of Katherine Tharp, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e783bfe-a829-415d-bc84-1100fa3410a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
![Photo of Bridgett Gant, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5997ccd9-d1f9-489a-aab8-c5cf8b9cfc1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704 (Online Only)
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Aju Alex, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecdb242f-1f9f-4c8f-b46f-9821d49ce29d/1/320x400.png)
Aju Alex has experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol disorder, and sleep disorders. She has her Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Prior to working as a PMHNP she worked as an RN at in-patient psychiatric units in Kansas and Georgia, catering to the needs of children, adolescents, and adults. She was motivated to further her career as a PMHNP after seeing the struggles and trauma that caused patients to be hospitalized/homeless.
Aju Alex has experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol disorder, and sleep disorders. She has her Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Prior to working as a PMHNP she worked as an RN at in-patient psychiatric units in Kansas and Georgia, catering to the needs of children, adolescents, and adults. She was motivated to further her career as a PMHNP after seeing the struggles and trauma that caused patients to be hospitalized/homeless.
![Photo of Nkem Okoli - SimSo Behavioral Legacy, LLC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11e0cfa5-6ab4-421d-8592-22da920d14a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
SimSo Behavioral Legacy, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77449 (Online Only)
My approach to care it's a holistic approach that provides support not just with the mental needs of the client, but also the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My approach is client centered, culture Specific, individualized care- no one shoe fit all approach to care.
My approach to care it's a holistic approach that provides support not just with the mental needs of the client, but also the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My approach is client centered, culture Specific, individualized care- no one shoe fit all approach to care.
![Photo of Keisha Marsolan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/579148a9-1b78-48f9-850d-dcda1767bd7c/1/320x400.png)
Keisha Marsolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
At eVibrant Mental Wellness, we have a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioners that will assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues with medication management and psychotherapy.
At eVibrant Mental Wellness, we have a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioners that will assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues with medication management and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Christine Chioma, NP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bcca870-29cd-4b62-97b3-afc2b7623289/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Chioma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731 (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Christine Chioma, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and I have over 18 years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults.
Hello, My name is Christine Chioma, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and I have over 18 years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults.
See more therapy options for Bastrop County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bastrop County, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bastrop County, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Sleep or Insomnia |
83% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Bastrop County, TX see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bastrop County?
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.