Psychiatrists in Chambers County, TX
![Photo of Kyle Grammond, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15b59939-9fc1-4b76-85ef-4086191e15d4/5/320x400.jpeg)
Kyle Grammond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mont Belvieu, TX 77523
Life’s challenges are too heavy to carry alone. Humans are designed to live in community, to be supported and be supportive of others. I am excited to come alongside you and integrate into your support system as you journey towards a peaceful and purposeful life.
Life’s challenges are too heavy to carry alone. Humans are designed to live in community, to be supported and be supportive of others. I am excited to come alongside you and integrate into your support system as you journey towards a peaceful and purposeful life.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Mohamed S Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f75283d-29bd-4bd7-9cdd-1959f21f6e6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
At The PsyClinic we strive to be the regional leader in mental health services by providing comprehensive psychiatric services from a team of experienced compassionate providers.
At The PsyClinic we strive to be the regional leader in mental health services by providing comprehensive psychiatric services from a team of experienced compassionate providers.
![Photo of Etienne Clement Poufong - Integrative Psychiatry Services PLLC, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd50c86-6b10-4208-b0c2-3002ab5f26f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Psychiatry Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Over 43 million people in America and 1 out of 5 adults struggle with mental health problems. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. You don't have to suffer in silence. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Book your Appointment.
Over 43 million people in America and 1 out of 5 adults struggle with mental health problems. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. You don't have to suffer in silence. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Book your Appointment.
![Photo of Edward John Kazmir - Active Minds Rx, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e217fe1e-87e1-4a32-9ffd-1a0b645e40b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Active Minds Rx
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
East Bernard, TX 77435
My own journey to finding a work and life balance lifestyle has helped me gain insight to the many challenges one encounters in day to day life. I have over 25 years working in healthcare with 7 years combined working as as a Family Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, etc., I am committed in working together to develop an individualize treatment plan for you to achieve your emotional and physical goals. Start your own journey today and schedule an on-line or in-person evaluation. (Rates: $200 1hr, $100 30mins).
My own journey to finding a work and life balance lifestyle has helped me gain insight to the many challenges one encounters in day to day life. I have over 25 years working in healthcare with 7 years combined working as as a Family Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, etc., I am committed in working together to develop an individualize treatment plan for you to achieve your emotional and physical goals. Start your own journey today and schedule an on-line or in-person evaluation. (Rates: $200 1hr, $100 30mins).
![Photo of Francisca Ogu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83faa09e-73fb-45ef-a067-ceada7f82daa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francisca Ogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77060 (Online Only)
I am Francisca Ogu, a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner based in Grand Prairie, Texas. I am an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner with vital academic training and extensive professional background in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric conditions across the lifespan of individuals. I treat patients with various mental health disorders, such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and schizophrenia in ages ten and above.
I am Francisca Ogu, a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner based in Grand Prairie, Texas. I am an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner with vital academic training and extensive professional background in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric conditions across the lifespan of individuals. I treat patients with various mental health disorders, such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and schizophrenia in ages ten and above.
![Photo of Matthew Hinthorn - Mynd Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0069426e-0ab3-484d-a084-90609aea80d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting AETNA, BCBS, UNITED, CIGNA, and OPTUM. Mynd Psychiatry specializes in general adult psychiatry including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, addiction, and ADHD. We are seeing patients in-office and online in North Houston.
Accepting AETNA, BCBS, UNITED, CIGNA, and OPTUM. Mynd Psychiatry specializes in general adult psychiatry including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, addiction, and ADHD. We are seeing patients in-office and online in North Houston.
![Photo of Carolyn Denice Thompson - AKADI Mental Health Services , MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c96e4539-6bf2-4f88-9cd4-9993942aabb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
AKADI Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dickinson, TX 77539
Hello. My name is Carolyn Thompson. I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner & ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider. I specialize in anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, and others. As a PMHNP, I’m committed to providing a patient centered, team approach to caring for my patients. Nurturing mind, body, and spirit. Performing and providing care to the best of my ability in every encounter. We’ll work side by side to find the right balance for you using an evidenced based approach to guide our decisions on medication management. I provide client centered care to clients in Texas, Washington and New Mexico.
Hello. My name is Carolyn Thompson. I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner & ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider. I specialize in anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, and others. As a PMHNP, I’m committed to providing a patient centered, team approach to caring for my patients. Nurturing mind, body, and spirit. Performing and providing care to the best of my ability in every encounter. We’ll work side by side to find the right balance for you using an evidenced based approach to guide our decisions on medication management. I provide client centered care to clients in Texas, Washington and New Mexico.
![Photo of Blessing O Benjamin - De-Blessed Mental Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a61c75d2-d6ba-4b4c-b555-519c9436fe32/1/320x400.jpeg)
De-Blessed Mental Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77493 (Online Only)
De-Blessed Mental Wellness, PLLC, is a one-stop practice for your mental health. Our care model considers the holistic nature of mind and body. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, schizophrenia, insomnia, major depression, psychotic disorders, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse and addiction, and other mental health conditions. We also offer individual psychotherapy. We are currently accepting new clients...
De-Blessed Mental Wellness, PLLC, is a one-stop practice for your mental health. Our care model considers the holistic nature of mind and body. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, schizophrenia, insomnia, major depression, psychotic disorders, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse and addiction, and other mental health conditions. We also offer individual psychotherapy. We are currently accepting new clients...
![Photo of Miranda Sanchez, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb64abca-2d0f-4c9e-b3b3-a378374785a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ms. Sanchez provides culturally sensitive and evidence-based care to all of her patients. She is a dedicated, compassionate provider who takes pride in caring for her patients. She treats a wide variety of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, &schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Ms. Sanchez provides culturally sensitive and evidence-based care to all of her patients. She is a dedicated, compassionate provider who takes pride in caring for her patients. She treats a wide variety of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, &schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
![Photo of Aaron H Fink, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbfdacc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I use a developmental biopsychosocial model to guide my clinical work. This model integrates biological (e.g. genetics), psychological (e.g. self concept), and sociological (e.g. family roles, culture) aspects of individuals at different stages of their lives. I find this model particularly useful in my work with athletes as well as people with ADHD and eating disorders. I also have a special interest in group psychotherapy and insight oriented individual psychotherapy.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I use a developmental biopsychosocial model to guide my clinical work. This model integrates biological (e.g. genetics), psychological (e.g. self concept), and sociological (e.g. family roles, culture) aspects of individuals at different stages of their lives. I find this model particularly useful in my work with athletes as well as people with ADHD and eating disorders. I also have a special interest in group psychotherapy and insight oriented individual psychotherapy.
![Photo of Randall Wade McIntyre - Dr Randall McIntyre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86cb8779-716f-477f-8c79-ac5c72ba656d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Randall McIntyre has been practicing Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in the Austin area for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA- biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School-Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residencies in General and Child Psychiatry at UTHSC-Houston. He is doubly Boarded in Child and Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Randall McIntyre has been practicing Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in the Austin area for over thirty years. He was raised in Midland, Texas. He holds a BA- biology from The University of Texas - Austin, and an MD from The University of Texas Medical School-Houston. He did his internship in Family Practice at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Subsequently, he completed residencies in General and Child Psychiatry at UTHSC-Houston. He is doubly Boarded in Child and Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
![Photo of Brandi M Gebhardt, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d04e3e9-839e-4a67-822a-39e14f336e0a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.
Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.
![Photo of Rayan K. Al Jurdi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f650f8c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a double-boarded psychiatrist, I am trained to assess, evaluate and treat any psychiatric disease. However, I have built my clinical and research career specializing in the area of mood disorders specifically depression and bipolar disorder. My special interests also include neurobehavioral psychiatry, psychosomatic psychiatry and cultural psychiatry. I offer a wide range of treatment modalities including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation.
As a double-boarded psychiatrist, I am trained to assess, evaluate and treat any psychiatric disease. However, I have built my clinical and research career specializing in the area of mood disorders specifically depression and bipolar disorder. My special interests also include neurobehavioral psychiatry, psychosomatic psychiatry and cultural psychiatry. I offer a wide range of treatment modalities including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation.
![Photo of Mutiat Olawunmi Accepting New Patients-No Waiting List!, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaeedc9d-1a4b-42d2-bf3a-801f4452358f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mutiat Olawunmi Accepting New Patients-No Waiting List!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
All clients accepted. Helping everyone is what Lifeline Medical Center is all about. Our hearts care for all. Call today to schedule with us.
All clients accepted. Helping everyone is what Lifeline Medical Center is all about. Our hearts care for all. Call today to schedule with us.
![Photo of Hope Essien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50f62d25-1b1c-4911-8d02-1bb960ec1939/1/320x400.png)
Dr Hope Essien (DNP) is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience as an NP provider. My focus is on Evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental and psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Mood and sleep disorders, and behavioral and conduct disorders in all ages across the lifespan. My desire is to provide more holistic care to the clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound and vice versa.
Dr Hope Essien (DNP) is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience as an NP provider. My focus is on Evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental and psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Mood and sleep disorders, and behavioral and conduct disorders in all ages across the lifespan. My desire is to provide more holistic care to the clients because the body suffers when the mind is not sound and vice versa.
![Photo of Adewunmi Julius Bankole, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aff84d07-88e0-4d62-af47-eb0a1a2c99eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adewunmi Julius Bankole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77088 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in Texas, DC and New York. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in Texas, DC and New York. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
![Photo of David Dapaah - Resilient Mind Psychiatric Services PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8177aa8e-25ed-4dff-94e7-a6349387a23d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Resilient Mind Psychiatric Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Mental illness can often be stressful and confusing to clients and their love ones. The goal of every individual experiencing a mental health crisis is to achieve relieve and wellbeing. You deserved to be listened to and your concerns validated and attended to without being judged or stigmatized. Behind every mental health crisis is a gentle and beautiful individual yearning for a listening ear and to be appreciated as any other human being. At Resilient Mind psychiatric services, we are here to listen and work with you as a valued partner on your journey to mental wellness. call us and will be there for you all the way.
Mental illness can often be stressful and confusing to clients and their love ones. The goal of every individual experiencing a mental health crisis is to achieve relieve and wellbeing. You deserved to be listened to and your concerns validated and attended to without being judged or stigmatized. Behind every mental health crisis is a gentle and beautiful individual yearning for a listening ear and to be appreciated as any other human being. At Resilient Mind psychiatric services, we are here to listen and work with you as a valued partner on your journey to mental wellness. call us and will be there for you all the way.
![Photo of Cassidy Gillaspie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63ea6f84-9943-4778-842b-4c50e971c8ae/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been blessed to practice psychiatry for the past 11 years. It is an honor to walk the journey of life with my patients, helping them work towards their goals free of burden. I have developed a pharmacologically conservative practice that is founded on listening and developing patient relationships, in the convenience of an accessible West Houston location. With a diverse practice background and the knowledge from being triple boarded in Adult Psychiatry, Child Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine; I am able to offer experience in treating a wide array of mental illness.
I have been blessed to practice psychiatry for the past 11 years. It is an honor to walk the journey of life with my patients, helping them work towards their goals free of burden. I have developed a pharmacologically conservative practice that is founded on listening and developing patient relationships, in the convenience of an accessible West Houston location. With a diverse practice background and the knowledge from being triple boarded in Adult Psychiatry, Child Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine; I am able to offer experience in treating a wide array of mental illness.
![Photo of Kemi Fawehinmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf37e7ee-c328-4c3a-947a-9cecaab39d01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kemi Fawehinmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77042 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
![Photo of Ashley Toutounchi - AuraMD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f0c7a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toutounchi has extensive training in medication management, working collaboratively with you to achieve your a sense of stability and optimal outcomes. Dr. T received her undergraduate University of North Texas, graduating with highest honors, summa cum laude. She obtained her medical degree and completed residency at the University of Texas Medical Texas at Houston and served as chief resident. She was voted by patients for "On time Doctor Award," "Patient's Choice Award" and Compassionate Doctor Recognition. She has been recognized and honored in both 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 as Top Doctors in H Texas Magazine."
Dr. Toutounchi has extensive training in medication management, working collaboratively with you to achieve your a sense of stability and optimal outcomes. Dr. T received her undergraduate University of North Texas, graduating with highest honors, summa cum laude. She obtained her medical degree and completed residency at the University of Texas Medical Texas at Houston and served as chief resident. She was voted by patients for "On time Doctor Award," "Patient's Choice Award" and Compassionate Doctor Recognition. She has been recognized and honored in both 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 as Top Doctors in H Texas Magazine."
See more therapy options for Chambers County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chambers County, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Chambers County, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
50% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Chambers County, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chambers County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.