Psychiatrists in Beeville, TX
![Photo of Adela R Santos, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, ACTTP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc8fb70-3a2f-4f16-90ac-466edf26c377/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adela R Santos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, ACTTP
Verified Verified
Beeville, TX 78102
I try to provide a safe and judgment-free space through trust and open communication. All patients should be treated fairly and their individual needs should be evaluated. Asking for help when dealing with mental health can be challenging, but as a specialist I am here to try to help. Many individuals experience trying times in their lives and need guidance. Each patient is unique and so is their journey for improved mental health.
I try to provide a safe and judgment-free space through trust and open communication. All patients should be treated fairly and their individual needs should be evaluated. Asking for help when dealing with mental health can be challenging, but as a specialist I am here to try to help. Many individuals experience trying times in their lives and need guidance. Each patient is unique and so is their journey for improved mental health.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Julie Yankowsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a91497f-945e-4f0a-b37b-bf0fe88eefdc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (Online Only)
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
Life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, or major transitions, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client seeks a path to regain control, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic approach that is both understanding and tailored to their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can explore your needs and work towards meaningful change.
![Photo of Dr. Taiwo I Abioye, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e7e9d83-b3a8-4a80-920a-fa5104d115a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Taiwo I Abioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232 (Online Only)
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7509ed7-6d85-4188-a77f-6fbd69566176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Shellylice Thomas, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79fb927f-c8ac-4743-b3d4-5046399bc5c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Ami Chatrath @ Wisemind, DO, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79a47ffe-3c69-4c28-bf0c-80ad52ca74af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ami Chatrath @ Wisemind
Psychiatrist, DO, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
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 Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a123ffc5-2fcb-4acf-83de-e3040f424a19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78251 (Online Only)
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
![Photo of Karen Inzurriaga, DNP, ARN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85a5bf20-4374-49c9-ae83-d3ad0663cd2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Inzurriaga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217 (Online Only)
Karen (often referred to by her trusting patients as Dr. I) is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has years of nursing experience in a variety of settings in Behavioral health.
Karen (often referred to by her trusting patients as Dr. I) is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has years of nursing experience in a variety of settings in Behavioral health.
![Photo of Melissa Deuter - Melissa Deuter, MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbccd1f2-259f-48a1-bd4e-daa6d3b83173/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Deuter, MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
Dr. Melissa Deuter is Psychiatric Medical Director of Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care. She supervises a team of professionals providing immediate psychiatric appointments as well as psychotherapy. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and walk-ins at our San Antonio location, and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a6196cf-6581-40c5-a43a-6ff7ab09b882/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232 (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up while others seem to juggle everything effortlessly? Life’s demands—whether from work, school, or personal responsibilities—can sometimes feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who feels this weight daily and is seeking support to regain control, rediscover confidence, and start building a brighter future. As a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience in mental health care, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals like you overcome their struggles. My approach is individualised with decision sharing.
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up while others seem to juggle everything effortlessly? Life’s demands—whether from work, school, or personal responsibilities—can sometimes feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who feels this weight daily and is seeking support to regain control, rediscover confidence, and start building a brighter future. As a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience in mental health care, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals like you overcome their struggles. My approach is individualised with decision sharing.
![Photo of Cloatee Surles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c45d850b-bd08-4b23-86d8-d92d3c60290c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cloatee Surles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78239 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Autumn Health and Wellness with over two decades of experience in healthcare.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Autumn Health and Wellness with over two decades of experience in healthcare.
![Photo of Ugochi Azubuike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7dd2a24-e866-446a-9da5-30c61ebab1fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugochi Azubuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
![Photo of Monique Chen - Ketamine Therapy & Medication Management, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7159132-3861-46fa-964a-cd58c4ae020c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ketamine Therapy & Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Inner Healing Ketamine therapy offers ketamine infusions, intramuscular ketamine injections, oral ketamine, IV vitamin therapy, and medication management services to help treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ptsd.
Inner Healing Ketamine therapy offers ketamine infusions, intramuscular ketamine injections, oral ketamine, IV vitamin therapy, and medication management services to help treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ptsd.
![Photo of Paul Edward Hunnicutt - Texas Mental Health and Wellness Center PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CMGT-BC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfea536a-92eb-4363-bacd-be0afa377246/3/320x400.jpeg)
Texas Mental Health and Wellness Center PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CMGT-BC, CCM
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Seguin, TX 78155 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help!
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help!
![Photo of Dr. Johanna V Nardini - Johanna Nardini, MD - Bravo Mind Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3c2f75b-279c-4709-8802-74daf3f54256/1/320x400.jpeg)
Johanna Nardini, MD - Bravo Mind Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216 (Online Only)
Children, teens, and young adults often struggle when facing new experiences and developmental transitions. Through these challenges they learn more about themselves and the type of individual they wish to become. Several of my patients appear content when viewed outwardly, but privately are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other emotional concerns. Behavioral health interventions in the form of medication or talk therapy can be very powerful tools to help overcome these hurdles.
Children, teens, and young adults often struggle when facing new experiences and developmental transitions. Through these challenges they learn more about themselves and the type of individual they wish to become. Several of my patients appear content when viewed outwardly, but privately are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other emotional concerns. Behavioral health interventions in the form of medication or talk therapy can be very powerful tools to help overcome these hurdles.
Dr. David A. Rodriguez is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. He has a Bachelor of Science from St. Mary's University, a Master of Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, a Medical Degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine, a Psychiatry Residency from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and a Child and Adolescent Fellowship from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
Dr. David A. Rodriguez is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. He has a Bachelor of Science from St. Mary's University, a Master of Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, a Medical Degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine, a Psychiatry Residency from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and a Child and Adolescent Fellowship from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
![Photo of Javen Valerie Cavazos, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97e3594e-a0bd-4099-a8ea-77f55611be09/2/320x400.jpeg)
Strive Psychiatry encourages patients to STRIVE to be courageous, connected, and understanding about mental health. It is the beginning journey of hope to being a better you. Advocating for bringing back medicine the way it used to be with direct patient care. Dr. Cavazos has been practicing in san antonio for 6 years and has over a decade of professional experience in mental health. Please visit www.strivepsychiatry.com for further information. Please schedule https://app.luminello.com/javencavazosmd/form
Strive Psychiatry encourages patients to STRIVE to be courageous, connected, and understanding about mental health. It is the beginning journey of hope to being a better you. Advocating for bringing back medicine the way it used to be with direct patient care. Dr. Cavazos has been practicing in san antonio for 6 years and has over a decade of professional experience in mental health. Please visit www.strivepsychiatry.com for further information. Please schedule https://app.luminello.com/javencavazosmd/form
![Photo of Yejide Oludare - Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0afc9fff-dda4-44f6-93a4-ed9fed5c9faf/4/320x400.jpeg)
Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253 (Online Only)
One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. My name is Yejide Oludare, Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently providing telemedicine appointment to Texas resident., takes pride in providing compassionate, and evidence based care for clients. I specialize in treating various mood disorders not limited to Adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, , OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Substance Use Disorder, and postpartum depression.
One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. My name is Yejide Oludare, Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently providing telemedicine appointment to Texas resident., takes pride in providing compassionate, and evidence based care for clients. I specialize in treating various mood disorders not limited to Adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, , OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Substance Use Disorder, and postpartum depression.
![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.
See more therapy options for Beeville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Beeville, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Beeville, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Beeville, TX see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Beeville?
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.