Psychiatrists in Castle Hills, TX
![Photo of Sarah Jirinzu - Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health, MSN, PMHNP, CC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d925c8f0-58f8-4089-bc04-a395d06b09cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, CC
Verified Verified
Castle Hills, TX 78213
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota and Washington State. I work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota and Washington State. I work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Christina Vasquez, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511cafdf-e492-4b32-acbc-0759e134dc7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Vasquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I want to serve my community and help those in need of assistance with their mental health and or substance use disorder I offer an evidence based non- biased approach for all clients. My goal is to decrease the stigma associated with mental health.
I want to serve my community and help those in need of assistance with their mental health and or substance use disorder I offer an evidence based non- biased approach for all clients. My goal is to decrease the stigma associated with mental health.
![Photo of Brian Hollis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ced4a485-a82f-4db2-a3e1-974675fc256d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Hollis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a BSN at George Mason University and an MSN at the University of South Alabama. Brian offers the ability to create a therapeutic rapport. He collects a thorough history for development of a clinical database required for diagnosis and management. During his free time, Brian enjoys attending church, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
Brian Hollis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a BSN at George Mason University and an MSN at the University of South Alabama. Brian offers the ability to create a therapeutic rapport. He collects a thorough history for development of a clinical database required for diagnosis and management. During his free time, Brian enjoys attending church, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
![Photo of Lovette Okoh, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/977d8497-63b0-4b19-bae7-e01ff2534d7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lovette Okoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Accepting new patients within 48 hours. We offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again. Our licensed and board-certified collaborating Psychiatrist , Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants have rigorous training and credentialing in the specialty area of child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
![Photo of Farheen Makani - Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6e1d8da-977d-440b-805f-c123fd0bb9ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aura Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
![Photo of Lindsey Sansing, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b6467a-bf12-4b91-9f68-538dc30b7dac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Sansing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201 (Online Only)
Lindsey is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and received her training and education from The University of Texas at Austin. Her primary areas of interest are working with clients struggling with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and PTSD. She has a wide array of training and experience providing trauma-informed care to Veterans and first responders, as well as to survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, exploitation, and domestic violence. If you live in Texas and are 15+, she can see you via telehealth. Schedule now: www.texasmindandbody.com.
Lindsey is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and received her training and education from The University of Texas at Austin. Her primary areas of interest are working with clients struggling with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and PTSD. She has a wide array of training and experience providing trauma-informed care to Veterans and first responders, as well as to survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, exploitation, and domestic violence. If you live in Texas and are 15+, she can see you via telehealth. Schedule now: www.texasmindandbody.com.
![Photo of Grace Olawumi Ojo - Perfection Vista Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aa6dc70-a3bb-435b-905d-76c6750bcbd8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perfection Vista Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Grace, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I want to help my patients achieve their goals, and I believe mental wellness is something we can achieve together. I'm here to collaborate to create an attainable care plan that meets your unique needs. I'd love to chat with you and would be honored to help you on your journey. I have openings on Fridays, weekends, and some evenings, and I can usually see you within a week. Let us work together towards better mental health and more fulfilling life.
Hello, I am Grace, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I want to help my patients achieve their goals, and I believe mental wellness is something we can achieve together. I'm here to collaborate to create an attainable care plan that meets your unique needs. I'd love to chat with you and would be honored to help you on your journey. I have openings on Fridays, weekends, and some evenings, and I can usually see you within a week. Let us work together towards better mental health and more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Dr. James T. Fuqua - Board Certified Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f2e57b-334d-415f-9a77-bcc0c526858a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. James T. Fuqua - Board Certified Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients. Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible. Visit our website for more information!
Accepting new patients. Dr. Fuqua is a medical doctor certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and many other conditions. He started his practice with the goal of providing Texans with psychiatric care that is comprehensive and readily accessible. Visit our website for more information!
![Photo of Luis Valdez, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a747286b-89ee-41dd-b75d-fba7295876d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Luis Javier Valdez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over one year of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Javier treats clients between the ages of 5 and 64 utilizing a biopsychosocial treatment approach, meaning that I will attempt to understand you as a whole individual including biological processes, your psychological approaches to coping, as well as your support system/family, and work systems to create a tailored treatment plan that is evidenced-based and unique for you.
Luis Javier Valdez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over one year of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Javier treats clients between the ages of 5 and 64 utilizing a biopsychosocial treatment approach, meaning that I will attempt to understand you as a whole individual including biological processes, your psychological approaches to coping, as well as your support system/family, and work systems to create a tailored treatment plan that is evidenced-based and unique for you.
![Photo of Grace Olaleye-Anisere, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f8b2e22-e567-4626-8cd7-ae33e54122ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Olaleye-Anisere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213 (Online Only)
Meet Grace Olaleye-Anisere, a doctorally prepared board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is a compassionate and highly skilled with extensive clinical experience and interpersonal skills spanning over a decade.
Meet Grace Olaleye-Anisere, a doctorally prepared board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is a compassionate and highly skilled with extensive clinical experience and interpersonal skills spanning over a decade.
![Photo of Earl Stenger, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76a19aa5-1ae9-4ca8-9ead-1c701066067b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stenger treats a full range of psychiatric disorders and specializes in medication management of anxiety, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Dr. Stenger treats a full range of psychiatric disorders and specializes in medication management of anxiety, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Teresa Brothers, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0371ff6-bbc2-4d3b-8d69-d7dc05d22f24/1/320x400.jpeg)
I was born in Mexico City, attended the National University School of Medicine and graduated as a Physician in 1970. I came to the United States in 1971 and studied General Psychiatry at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. Then moved to New Orleans and studied Child Psychiatry at Tulane University of New Orleans. After graduation I became a Tulane Associate Professor and director of children and adolescent units at the psychiatric hospital in Mandeville. I have 2 sons that were born in New Orleans, they are my pride and joy. I moved back to Mexico City and was in private practice for 7 years.
I was born in Mexico City, attended the National University School of Medicine and graduated as a Physician in 1970. I came to the United States in 1971 and studied General Psychiatry at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. Then moved to New Orleans and studied Child Psychiatry at Tulane University of New Orleans. After graduation I became a Tulane Associate Professor and director of children and adolescent units at the psychiatric hospital in Mandeville. I have 2 sons that were born in New Orleans, they are my pride and joy. I moved back to Mexico City and was in private practice for 7 years.
![Photo of Dr. Nicole Nguyen - Board Certified Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fba85149-83df-41d2-8d38-e5bb7de2aef7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicole Nguyen - Board Certified Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230 (Online Only)
Dr. Nicole Nguyen is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She attained her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Cultural Anthropology at the University of Southern California prior to returning to her home state of Texas to complete both her medical school and residency training at UT Health San Antonio.
Dr. Nicole Nguyen is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She attained her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Cultural Anthropology at the University of Southern California prior to returning to her home state of Texas to complete both her medical school and residency training at UT Health San Antonio.
![Photo of Karla Rivera - Blue Skyes Health Psychiatry Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/539772cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We thrive on supporting our pediatric community and their families with an integrative care for children and their behavioral health. Specializing in treating conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder and other behavior problems. We understand that when a child in the family is struggling the whole family struggles. We provide medication management for our patients and an open communication with the parents because we believe good communication with our patients makes for better treatment outcomes.
We thrive on supporting our pediatric community and their families with an integrative care for children and their behavioral health. Specializing in treating conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder and other behavior problems. We understand that when a child in the family is struggling the whole family struggles. We provide medication management for our patients and an open communication with the parents because we believe good communication with our patients makes for better treatment outcomes.
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 Maria Camacho - Dallas Family Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f806ba8-92d4-4c10-8317-ecba2e0667bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dallas Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
New Patients are welcome with minimal wait time. Maria Camacho is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders and substance use disorders.
New Patients are welcome with minimal wait time. Maria Camacho is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Brandi Hrasdzira, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1c2a920-de46-4e4d-8800-727ac2307b89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi Hrasdzira is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She is a 2020 graduate from University of the Incarnate Word where she obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brandi offers a holistic approach to psychiatric treatment where she considers medical, mental, and social causes of symptoms. Brandi believes the best modality for treatment is both therapy and medication management. In her free time, Brandi enjoys spending time with her two dogs, the outdoors, gardening, crafting, concerts, and video games.
Brandi Hrasdzira is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She is a 2020 graduate from University of the Incarnate Word where she obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brandi offers a holistic approach to psychiatric treatment where she considers medical, mental, and social causes of symptoms. Brandi believes the best modality for treatment is both therapy and medication management. In her free time, Brandi enjoys spending time with her two dogs, the outdoors, gardening, crafting, concerts, and video games.
![Photo of Ricardo Calderon, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468bd883-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ricardo Calderon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213
I specialize in the management of mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorder, insomnia, OCD, and ADHD. I treat clients using a patient-centered approach. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and provider and that is what I strive for with all of my clients. I can assist you in fulfilling your mental health needs through psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Whether you've received treatment in the past or are seeking a mental health provider for the first time, I'll do my best to help you reach your goals effectively and safely.
I specialize in the management of mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorder, insomnia, OCD, and ADHD. I treat clients using a patient-centered approach. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and provider and that is what I strive for with all of my clients. I can assist you in fulfilling your mental health needs through psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Whether you've received treatment in the past or are seeking a mental health provider for the first time, I'll do my best to help you reach your goals effectively and safely.
![Photo of Deidre Rose Alder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efa87cf4-8006-4b1e-9faf-b6005e1f15ec/1/320x400.png)
Deidre Rose Alder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216 (Online Only)
Deidre is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. She also believes in engaging in a therapeutic rapport.
Deidre is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. She also believes in engaging in a therapeutic rapport.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
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Nearby Searches for Castle Hills
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Castle Hills, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Castle Hills, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Domestic Abuse |
100% | Infertility |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Parenting |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Castle Hills, TX see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Castle Hills?
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.