Psychiatrists in Collin County, TX
![Photo of Ameena Isa, MD, MSCS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e825786-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable and confidential environment to explore evaluation and treatment options. We evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues, which may be adversely affecting family relationships. We also evaluate for educational success and the development of appropriate social skills. We are available to provide professional opinion and begin this process with you. We look forward to working with you!
Our practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable and confidential environment to explore evaluation and treatment options. We evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues, which may be adversely affecting family relationships. We also evaluate for educational success and the development of appropriate social skills. We are available to provide professional opinion and begin this process with you. We look forward to working with you!
![Photo of Rhoda Madamombe - Rhoda Madamombe - Great Pathways Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f3cfc62-4933-4228-9a36-8aef1bdc2a2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rhoda Madamombe - Great Pathways Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adults. I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety disorders, Post traumatic Stress disorder, and substance abuse. I am compassionate and truly enjoy helping clients reach their full potential.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in both In-patient and Out-patient care of adults. I evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety disorders, Post traumatic Stress disorder, and substance abuse. I am compassionate and truly enjoy helping clients reach their full potential.
![Photo of Matthew Hamilton, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f5605c7-bc67-4361-b54e-6682724c39ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew Hamilton is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist who is establishing his post-residency practice with Talkiatry. Dr. Hamilton’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Hamilton may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Matthew Hamilton is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist who is establishing his post-residency practice with Talkiatry. Dr. Hamilton’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Hamilton may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Sefelisha Harmon, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95cca946-ee1c-41ed-a03a-0360b8d89e66/1/320x400.png)
Felisha has 11 years of nursing experience and is passionate about promoting well-being.
Felisha has 11 years of nursing experience and is passionate about promoting well-being.
![Photo of Fredric Matthew Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15788278-9ee5-4e63-b2e0-a9a6b2deab18/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I have seen patients who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I have seen patients who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
![Photo of Jonathan Ariel Kaminar, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71b8cefc-1b88-4842-9ffb-b487cfe38d61/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Ariel Kaminar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Excel Psychiatry servicing all of Texas. We are located in McKinney, TX near Prosper and Frisco. I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy to adults from ages 18-65. I work with my clients to find a treatment plan that best suits them, and incorporate both medication and psychotherapy to meet their needs. For those with complex or chronic mental health needs, we offer both Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatments. Visit our website and book with me at www.excel-psychiatry.com or look for me on Zocdoc!
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Excel Psychiatry servicing all of Texas. We are located in McKinney, TX near Prosper and Frisco. I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy to adults from ages 18-65. I work with my clients to find a treatment plan that best suits them, and incorporate both medication and psychotherapy to meet their needs. For those with complex or chronic mental health needs, we offer both Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatments. Visit our website and book with me at www.excel-psychiatry.com or look for me on Zocdoc!
![Photo of Writtika Roy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2df284b-c211-4805-810c-96a7951d835b/2/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to providing standard treatment of mental illnesses with medication and psychotherapy, I like to help my patients become artists of their own lives. Our minds are greater than our mental illness, and we are greater than our minds. At the same time, we have to be honest about the negative effects of a mental illness in our lives, and not delay remedies which can contain, manage, and even remove the dysfunction. Accepting the reality of an illness, but not letting an illness limit our happiness, requires conscious management. This, my patients can count on me to provide.
In addition to providing standard treatment of mental illnesses with medication and psychotherapy, I like to help my patients become artists of their own lives. Our minds are greater than our mental illness, and we are greater than our minds. At the same time, we have to be honest about the negative effects of a mental illness in our lives, and not delay remedies which can contain, manage, and even remove the dysfunction. Accepting the reality of an illness, but not letting an illness limit our happiness, requires conscious management. This, my patients can count on me to provide.
![Photo of Danielle Fortingo, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8048d7e2-e22b-4bf4-ac9d-b1da2bfebeb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Fortingo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070 (Online Only)
I am board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. My career as a clinician span over 14 years of inpatient and outpatient care experience across multiple specialties including – Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Urgent Care, Pediatrics, Pain Management, Med-Surg, Telemetry, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse Disorder. I obtained a Master of Science degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Chamberlain University and a Post-master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse from Maryville University. I also have a Bachelor of Nursing from Mercer University.
I am board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. My career as a clinician span over 14 years of inpatient and outpatient care experience across multiple specialties including – Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Urgent Care, Pediatrics, Pain Management, Med-Surg, Telemetry, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse Disorder. I obtained a Master of Science degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Chamberlain University and a Post-master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse from Maryville University. I also have a Bachelor of Nursing from Mercer University.
![Photo of Ashley Gardner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/523b6b65-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Have you struggled to find a psychiatrist who is able to provide the time and attention needed to fully understand your issues, needs and goals? Maybe you're looking for a more personalized psychiatry clinic. It is my goal to take the time to understand the values and goals of each individual patient and provide personalized care. In my practice you won’t be just another number. Each visit will be with me, with no crowded waiting room. I treat patients age 16 and up, and while I treat a variety of psychiatric illnesses, I'm especially passionate about treating those with depression or anxiety, and those coping with grief and loss.
Have you struggled to find a psychiatrist who is able to provide the time and attention needed to fully understand your issues, needs and goals? Maybe you're looking for a more personalized psychiatry clinic. It is my goal to take the time to understand the values and goals of each individual patient and provide personalized care. In my practice you won’t be just another number. Each visit will be with me, with no crowded waiting room. I treat patients age 16 and up, and while I treat a variety of psychiatric illnesses, I'm especially passionate about treating those with depression or anxiety, and those coping with grief and loss.
![Photo of April Parker, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/add665b0-fc7f-4f7a-bf43-7db4c428a2f7/3/320x400.jpeg)
April Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide my patients with a well-rounded approach to meet their individual needs. I treat a broad range of mental health disorders through medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide my patients with a well-rounded approach to meet their individual needs. I treat a broad range of mental health disorders through medication management.
![Photo of Drew Edward Murray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7488614c-8fcf-47a1-b269-c8f44973de6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
I seek to serve any person who needs a listening ear or wants help managing their mental illness. Someone who needs a psychiatrist that will not just prescribe medications but will consider and recommend additional treatment methods in an evidence based approach. Any patient seeking a psychiatrist who considers the whole person.
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![Photo of Mary Francis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/102d0ca1-b928-495e-b055-188af528b718/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Mary Francis is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. Mary can provide comprehensive care for patients with mental health problems to alleviate their sufferings by integrating her knowledge and considering her patients' physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, traveling, and enjoying time with family and friends.
![Photo of Norman Sowell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9541685d-0ef4-4a00-ab33-8fdd64a00524/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is the one who reaches out when they need help. If you make that first step, I know that you are motivated! I will work tirelessly to help you meet your mental health goals. The relationship between an individual and their psychiatric provider should be a collaborative one. I always strive to seek feedback from clients and to provide alternatives & options for care. Medication management is my primary focus, so I would love to work alongside your therapist or I could help you to find one.
My ideal client is the one who reaches out when they need help. If you make that first step, I know that you are motivated! I will work tirelessly to help you meet your mental health goals. The relationship between an individual and their psychiatric provider should be a collaborative one. I always strive to seek feedback from clients and to provide alternatives & options for care. Medication management is my primary focus, so I would love to work alongside your therapist or I could help you to find one.
![Photo of Ifeoma Irokwe, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bd2584a-e40d-4445-9480-518d748c9ebc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ifeoma Irokwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
![Photo of Gus Zhang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94a138df-743e-42d6-a7a4-226adcb8ad96/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Gus Zhang and I am a board-certified psychiatrist at Prestonwood Health, a new outpatient psychiatry clinic in Plano, TX serving patients across the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex. At Prestonwood Health, we have a team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists who are committed to helping you achieve optimal mental wellness using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches. I believe that excellent mental health care should be affordable and available to everyone. Prestonwood health is in network with most major insurance plans and we are currently accepting new patients.
My name is Dr. Gus Zhang and I am a board-certified psychiatrist at Prestonwood Health, a new outpatient psychiatry clinic in Plano, TX serving patients across the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex. At Prestonwood Health, we have a team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists who are committed to helping you achieve optimal mental wellness using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches. I believe that excellent mental health care should be affordable and available to everyone. Prestonwood health is in network with most major insurance plans and we are currently accepting new patients.
![Photo of Kehinde T Adedayo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e1b9e05-3d3e-40c3-b36d-9a51a63d0b1e/1/320x400.png)
Kehinde T Adedayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) with more than 10+ years of practice in mental health nursing. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. My philosophy of patient care is to provide the highest level of evidence-based quality care that is patient-centered. I firmly believe in treating the body as a whole. I believe in a holistic approach to health, integrating medication management with therapeutic strategies for a comprehensive healing experience that considers your entire well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) with more than 10+ years of practice in mental health nursing. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. My philosophy of patient care is to provide the highest level of evidence-based quality care that is patient-centered. I firmly believe in treating the body as a whole. I believe in a holistic approach to health, integrating medication management with therapeutic strategies for a comprehensive healing experience that considers your entire well-being.
![Photo of Jennifer Ruch, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/786fc761-d3b3-4897-bec3-c9e7b94c204f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Ruch is a board certified psychiatrist who strives to understand her patients’ lived experiences and aspirations to develop supportive therapeutic relationships through empathetic listening, mutual trust, and respect. She collaboratively creates individualized care plans that align with personal treatment goals in a safe and judgment-free environment. She earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ruch completed her General Psychiatry Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in New York.
Dr. Jennifer Ruch is a board certified psychiatrist who strives to understand her patients’ lived experiences and aspirations to develop supportive therapeutic relationships through empathetic listening, mutual trust, and respect. She collaboratively creates individualized care plans that align with personal treatment goals in a safe and judgment-free environment. She earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ruch completed her General Psychiatry Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in New York.
![Photo of Alyxandra Bui, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b0aedc5-b1e1-4484-8bf5-e197f4e748c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
Our ideal patient is someone who wants to understand and manage their symptoms, achieve a better quality of life, and function in daily activities. We take an integrative approach to treatment, considering all aspects of our patients' lives. If you're struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or more, we can help. Our goal is to work together to find the best solution that works for you.
![Photo of Omolara Oloye-Adelusi - Crystal Mind Psychiatry and Counseling, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c70b13f-e31b-4914-a57b-10def82181d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Mind Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.
Embarking on a mental health journey? Struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or ADHD, hindering your optimal functioning? We prioritize evidence-based practices, grounded in research to enhance your well-being. Offering Same DAY Appointments with NO waitlist. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available upon request. Welcoming NEW clients across Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. We offer In-person and Telepsychiatry Services from the Comfort of your home. Accepting major insurances such as BCBS, UHC / UBH, Medicare, Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Oscar Health, and Private Pay. Your path to mental wellness starts here.
![Photo of Zia Uddin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4497a882-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Adults with ADHD may have been undiagnosed when younger, only having symptoms later in life when something changed (i.e., going off to college, getting married, having children, etc.) Adult ADHD patients also frequently have anxiety, depression or other issues that may or may not be related.
Adults with ADHD may have been undiagnosed when younger, only having symptoms later in life when something changed (i.e., going off to college, getting married, having children, etc.) Adult ADHD patients also frequently have anxiety, depression or other issues that may or may not be related.
See more therapy options for Collin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Collin County, TX
300+
Average cost per session
$190
Psychiatrists in Collin County, TX who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Collin County, TX see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Collin 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.