Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX
![Photo of Dr. Lauren Williams, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df78282-855c-4ec4-8094-e72daef5e59f/5/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
![Photo of Michael Alan Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b2315b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Alan Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78733
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing in West Lake Hills, Texas. In my office, or through telepsychiatry, I treat adults, adolescents, couples and families using a broad variety of methods and techniques, and, most importantly, an empathic and non-judgmental approach. My practice is collaborative, person-centered and holistic. Working with you, I will provide psychotherapy and, when appropriate, medication management. I will take the time and strive with you to develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and wishes and to provide the best solution and the best result.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatrist practicing in West Lake Hills, Texas. In my office, or through telepsychiatry, I treat adults, adolescents, couples and families using a broad variety of methods and techniques, and, most importantly, an empathic and non-judgmental approach. My practice is collaborative, person-centered and holistic. Working with you, I will provide psychotherapy and, when appropriate, medication management. I will take the time and strive with you to develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and wishes and to provide the best solution and the best result.
![Photo of Carlos Tirado, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460b1995-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tirado is Board Certified in General and Addiction and Addiction Medicine. He is a recognized thought leader, innovator, mentor and clinical expert in addiction treatment and systems of care. Dr. Tirado spent the first half of his career in academia holding faculty appointments at University of Pennsylvania and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He subsequently has developed and implemented hospital, facility-based and outpatient addiction treatment services, outpatient chronic pain management and primary care for addiction programs. His consulting work concentrates on medication therapy and clinical trials, health plans, peer recovery support, expert witness and medical board review.
Dr. Tirado is Board Certified in General and Addiction and Addiction Medicine. He is a recognized thought leader, innovator, mentor and clinical expert in addiction treatment and systems of care. Dr. Tirado spent the first half of his career in academia holding faculty appointments at University of Pennsylvania and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He subsequently has developed and implemented hospital, facility-based and outpatient addiction treatment services, outpatient chronic pain management and primary care for addiction programs. His consulting work concentrates on medication therapy and clinical trials, health plans, peer recovery support, expert witness and medical board review.
![Photo of Isela Werchan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/461ca5b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Isela Werchan is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry. Dr. Werchan completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at El Paso. She received a medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She completed a general psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. She was Chief Resident and awarded the VA Outstanding Resident Award and the Van Dao Award. Her training experience includes the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic and obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as psychotic disorders.
Dr. Isela Werchan is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry. Dr. Werchan completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at El Paso. She received a medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She completed a general psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. She was Chief Resident and awarded the VA Outstanding Resident Award and the Van Dao Award. Her training experience includes the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic and obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as psychotic disorders.
![Photo of May (Meiling) Wang - May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9db6dc4f-5c7f-4f2e-8eba-07f46447d31b/2/320x400.jpeg)
May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bee Cave, TX 78733
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
![Photo of Bret Bellard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4cb7b21-ca87-4d01-b012-9cd90a096db5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bret Bellard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78734 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 23 years of experience with mental health issues. I am certified in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine. I strive to treat all aspects of my patient's life, including exercise and nutrition in addition to counseling and medication. My goal is to empower patients to take the best care of themselves.
I have over 23 years of experience with mental health issues. I am certified in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine. I strive to treat all aspects of my patient's life, including exercise and nutrition in addition to counseling and medication. My goal is to empower patients to take the best care of themselves.
![Photo of Justin Scaffa, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52da4bb5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am looking for those people who don't understand why they feel the way they do because one of my greatest pleasures is to help you find answers and the steps to get better. I enjoy teaching my patients and can often make the complex disorders understandable. I like to empower my patients to choose the best treatments for them. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I am up to date on the latest treatments but I also love when I can help people off of their medications for good.
I am looking for those people who don't understand why they feel the way they do because one of my greatest pleasures is to help you find answers and the steps to get better. I enjoy teaching my patients and can often make the complex disorders understandable. I like to empower my patients to choose the best treatments for them. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I am up to date on the latest treatments but I also love when I can help people off of their medications for good.
![Photo of Zhan Yang, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a74cee7-6e71-445d-86d1-9c24f0c6064f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2013. I offer medication management services both in person and through telepsychiatry to ages 12 and older. My approach focuses on integrated mental health and physical well beings. Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of psychiatric settings with various age groups, including both acute psychiatric hospitals and long-term care facilities.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2013. I offer medication management services both in person and through telepsychiatry to ages 12 and older. My approach focuses on integrated mental health and physical well beings. Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of psychiatric settings with various age groups, including both acute psychiatric hospitals and long-term care facilities.
![Photo of Richard Sambrook, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e717bf3-ea90-4f47-9f7c-b92f832c6dab/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
I am passionate about helping people find that balance in their life between medication, therapy, and maximizing their potential. I enjoy educating my patients and helping them make complex disorders more understandable. I try and empower my patients by collaborating with them to choose the best treatments. I am the guide; you are the decision maker. I have experience with the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, substance use, personality disorders and schizophrenia. I stay up to date on the latest treatments options, but my goal is to help people get off of their medications for good or minimize if long-term is needed.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Munira Jiwani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2df0d20a-63b1-4f96-b944-0a5b677518f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78735 (Online Only)
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner 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 life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner 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 Folasade Akinkuowo, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df08f3a-f266-4f8e-ae57-ae09f2410b9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Folasade Akinkuowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746 (Online Only)
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing comprehensive care for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. With years of experience and a deep understanding of these conditions, I'm here to offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're seeking therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, I'm committed to working closely with you to achieve optimal mental wellness. Together, we'll navigate your challenges, foster resilience, and empower you to lead a fulfilling life.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing comprehensive care for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. With years of experience and a deep understanding of these conditions, I'm here to offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're seeking therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, I'm committed to working closely with you to achieve optimal mental wellness. Together, we'll navigate your challenges, foster resilience, and empower you to lead a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Shelly Riley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4780f88c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Dr. Riley is board certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. She provides psychopharmacology for patients in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1999 and completed her residency and fellowship at The University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 2004. She has been in practice in Austin, Texas since 2004. To find out more about her practice, please visit her website.
Welcome! Dr. Riley is board certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. She provides psychopharmacology for patients in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1999 and completed her residency and fellowship at The University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 2004. She has been in practice in Austin, Texas since 2004. To find out more about her practice, please visit her website.
![Photo of Shazar Khan, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94a992a8-26b5-492c-8aae-39ed7ce69852/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
![Photo of Adrienne DiRaddo Feehan, MSN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c016448-e758-435e-8c31-1c47f6aa1e39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne DiRaddo Feehan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
Adrienne works with a wide range of mental health issues and practices trauma-informed care to fully support her patients in moving through challenges at a safe, effective pace. She approaches treatment holistically, believing that medication is only one aspect of person-centered care. She incorporates current alternative therapies that are evidence-based, focusing on complementary practices such as meditation, exercise, nutrition, lifestyle modifications, supplements, and coordinating care with psychotherapists. To achieve this, she works collaboratively with therapists, clinicians, families, and healthcare providers.
Adrienne works with a wide range of mental health issues and practices trauma-informed care to fully support her patients in moving through challenges at a safe, effective pace. She approaches treatment holistically, believing that medication is only one aspect of person-centered care. She incorporates current alternative therapies that are evidence-based, focusing on complementary practices such as meditation, exercise, nutrition, lifestyle modifications, supplements, and coordinating care with psychotherapists. To achieve this, she works collaboratively with therapists, clinicians, families, and healthcare providers.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b392b7c-2e96-455b-866a-37310eeafd18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Front Desk - Roots Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51eebfae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide comprehensive behavioral health care for adults in Central Texas. Roots Behavioral Health serves to meet the psychiatric needs of the growing Austin population. Our practitioners collaborate to offer therapeutic interventions including medication management and various therapy approaches to aid an individual's mental health.
We provide comprehensive behavioral health care for adults in Central Texas. Roots Behavioral Health serves to meet the psychiatric needs of the growing Austin population. Our practitioners collaborate to offer therapeutic interventions including medication management and various therapy approaches to aid an individual's mental health.
![Photo of S. Brooke Taylor, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3907f13-d7ee-4445-a6cf-08f28fa9adfb/3/320x400.jpeg)
S. Brooke Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746 (Online Only)
Anxiety Sun, Depression Moon and Bipolar Rising. I am excited to meet you and start this new adventure. I have over 20 years of experience working as a women's health nurse practitioner and am now transitioning to mental health and wellness. I would say I specialize in women's health, moods and overall happiness, but I also have experience in working with men and the adolescent population, focusing on their specific mental health needs. Please email me and I can give you details on how to schedule an appointment. I am open to seeing new patients and plan to take many common insurance plans.
Anxiety Sun, Depression Moon and Bipolar Rising. I am excited to meet you and start this new adventure. I have over 20 years of experience working as a women's health nurse practitioner and am now transitioning to mental health and wellness. I would say I specialize in women's health, moods and overall happiness, but I also have experience in working with men and the adolescent population, focusing on their specific mental health needs. Please email me and I can give you details on how to schedule an appointment. I am open to seeing new patients and plan to take many common insurance plans.
![Photo of Leonard Weiss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37db03fb-736e-47c9-abe2-21470e90825c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Weiss believes in meeting people where they are and custom-tailoring a plan to meet their specific concerns. He works with each individual and their family members as well as other medical treatment providers to create a plan that meets their needs. For some, this may include medication management whereas others require psychotherapy and finally certain patients may do best with both.
Dr. Weiss believes in meeting people where they are and custom-tailoring a plan to meet their specific concerns. He works with each individual and their family members as well as other medical treatment providers to create a plan that meets their needs. For some, this may include medication management whereas others require psychotherapy and finally certain patients may do best with both.
![Photo of Cynthia Benton, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/008398b9-a5c0-4837-8861-c78f28a98877/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.
Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.
![Photo of Catherine Larson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4394eee1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board Certified in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my residency and fellowship training here in Austin, Texas at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. I work with children, adolescents and young adults (age 4-40) using both psychotherapy and medications. I have special interest in Anxiety Disorders but I have experience working with a wide range of diagnoses. For more information about my practice, including fees, schedule etc. please visit my website. I am not currently accepting any insurance plans.
I am Board Certified in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my residency and fellowship training here in Austin, Texas at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. I work with children, adolescents and young adults (age 4-40) using both psychotherapy and medications. I have special interest in Anxiety Disorders but I have experience working with a wide range of diagnoses. For more information about my practice, including fees, schedule etc. please visit my website. I am not currently accepting any insurance plans.
See more therapy options for Bee Cave
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
78% | Addiction |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Substance Use |
67% | Geriatric and Seniors |
Average years in practice
21 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Bee Cave, TX see their clients
89% | In Person and Online | |
11% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bee Cave?
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.