Psychiatrists in Converse, TX
![Photo of Anthony Okafor, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb7ee1f7-119d-49b9-b43c-646d9d68f075/3/320x400.jpeg)
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
![Photo of Renee Licorish - Closed!! (Mental Aspects Behavioral Health Clinic), DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25013419-14b3-4ec2-bd0d-cec4c5ea027a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Closed!! (Mental Aspects Behavioral Health Clinic)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Converse, TX 78109 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Permanently closed in Texas!
Permanently closed in Texas!
![Photo of Ashley Briggs - Mind Works, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f0f171e-d7c2-4d6d-8152-a68fe573b0d8/1/320x400.png)
I am here to help your child facing behavioral, emotional, or psychological challenges. Your child might be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions. I understand, as a parent, you are seeking compassionate and effective care to help manage your child's symptoms and improve their overall well-being. I provide a collaborative, supportive environment where you and your child feel understood and empowered to reach your child's full potential. Your ultimate goal is to achieve mental and emotional stability, academic success, and improved family dynamics and I am here to help on that journey.
I am here to help your child facing behavioral, emotional, or psychological challenges. Your child might be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions. I understand, as a parent, you are seeking compassionate and effective care to help manage your child's symptoms and improve their overall well-being. I provide a collaborative, supportive environment where you and your child feel understood and empowered to reach your child's full potential. Your ultimate goal is to achieve mental and emotional stability, academic success, and improved family dynamics and I am here to help on that journey.
![Photo of Sofia C Arras - CKS Mental Wellness, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67d46c0c-0266-4009-bf2c-afb8860c4e87/2/320x400.jpeg)
CKS Mental Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Converse, TX 78109 (Online Only)
An ideal patient may encounter challenges in adjusting to life. Their goals would be to find happiness and continue moving forward. They seek to live a better life by achieving happiness
An ideal patient may encounter challenges in adjusting to life. Their goals would be to find happiness and continue moving forward. They seek to live a better life by achieving happiness
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kolade Ajayi - Alamo Premier Mental Health, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34a00de1-bbce-42ca-a61f-e1849b1d5b7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alamo Premier Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from.
I am a compassionate dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from.
![Photo of Jolene C. Moore, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5317e77e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Moore specializes in high functioning adults already diagnosed with ADD/ADHD by a psychiatrist, psychologist or neurologist. Ideal for those in need of a new psychiatrist due to moving, aging out of a pediatric clinic or when their psychiatrist retires. 1st appt is an in-office full diagnostic interview. Virtual sessions may be available between office visits. Service options include psychotherapy, behavioral management, medication management, and/or peer/professional consultation. Dr. Moore also has a special focus in helping patients without ADD/ADHD seeking psychotherapy without medication.
Dr. Moore specializes in high functioning adults already diagnosed with ADD/ADHD by a psychiatrist, psychologist or neurologist. Ideal for those in need of a new psychiatrist due to moving, aging out of a pediatric clinic or when their psychiatrist retires. 1st appt is an in-office full diagnostic interview. Virtual sessions may be available between office visits. Service options include psychotherapy, behavioral management, medication management, and/or peer/professional consultation. Dr. Moore also has a special focus in helping patients without ADD/ADHD seeking psychotherapy without medication.
![Photo of Nelly Okere, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8f86035-a853-4ae4-a945-dce0991d3ba0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nelly Okere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
![Photo of Eunice W Mwaura - Eunice Mwaura, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d815cdc-4ba5-4cbe-923e-639780cfcdfb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eunice Mwaura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garden Ridge, TX 78266 (Online Only)
Hello! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, insomnia or mood instability? I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD , psychosis and sleep problems. I help my patients not just with medications but also in other areas of their life . I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. l look forward to working with you as you start or continue your journey to a healthy mind.
Hello! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, insomnia or mood instability? I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD , psychosis and sleep problems. I help my patients not just with medications but also in other areas of their life . I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. l look forward to working with you as you start or continue your journey to a healthy mind.
![Photo of Dr. Elena Gherman - Full Moon Behavioral, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35bb1cf2-bc79-4571-990a-13e976abf6f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elena Gherman is a spectacular Leader and Psychiatrist in our community for more than 13 years. She is also an amazing mother of 3 beautiful children. She is Board certified in Adult Psychiatry & Neurology, with specialty fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr G's training and professional experiences will allow her to offer you and your family the best care and treatment plans with safety and well-being in mind. The ONLY Psychiatrist doing PharmacoGenomic Testing in the office in San Antonio!
Dr. Elena Gherman is a spectacular Leader and Psychiatrist in our community for more than 13 years. She is also an amazing mother of 3 beautiful children. She is Board certified in Adult Psychiatry & Neurology, with specialty fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr G's training and professional experiences will allow her to offer you and your family the best care and treatment plans with safety and well-being in mind. The ONLY Psychiatrist doing PharmacoGenomic Testing in the office in San Antonio!
![Photo of Magdalene Rozmiarek, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e600aeb-f5e8-4482-854e-2aa70646439f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magdalene Rozmiarek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alamo Heights, TX 78209 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients and immediate openings available. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who embraces a holistic approach with the use of evidence-based medication management, complimentary treatments, and lifestyle changes to achieve your goals. I embrace a safe, compassionate, non-discriminatory and culturally centered approach to care. My aim is to create a nurturing environment that allows you to be heard so we can create a treatment plan together.
Accepting new patients and immediate openings available. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who embraces a holistic approach with the use of evidence-based medication management, complimentary treatments, and lifestyle changes to achieve your goals. I embrace a safe, compassionate, non-discriminatory and culturally centered approach to care. My aim is to create a nurturing environment that allows you to be heard so we can create a treatment plan together.
![Photo of Omotayo Gbengaojo, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bb5c546-2574-4ea1-a27c-764add72190d/2/320x400.png)
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
![Photo of Raquel Vallejo-Moore, MSHP, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4e4d94-ae24-484d-8e50-b18850614414/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raquel Vallejo-Moore
Physician Assistant, MSHP, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
I am a Physician Assistant with Specialization in Psychiatry. My interest in Psychiatry was triggered due to my observation that mental health issues underlie a lot of the other medical issues that people deal with. I also observed that people around me did not seem to be getting compassionate care from their providers. I felt like patients are not being heard so I wanted to make a difference. I diagnose and treat PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.
I am a Physician Assistant with Specialization in Psychiatry. My interest in Psychiatry was triggered due to my observation that mental health issues underlie a lot of the other medical issues that people deal with. I also observed that people around me did not seem to be getting compassionate care from their providers. I felt like patients are not being heard so I wanted to make a difference. I diagnose and treat PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Ijeoma Ajufo - Northridge Behavioral Health PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec60b44-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Northridge Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Dr Ajufo is fully licensed in state of Texas and accepting NEW patients. She is experienced in working with a diverse population of motivated patients. She provides high quality, comprehensive, compassionate and patient focused care for patients 6yrs AND ABOVE Focusing on the whole person Dr Ajufo works with the patient to develop individualized treatment plans. Our clinic treats patients with Anxiety,ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, , Depression, Postpartum Depression, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia , Schizoaffective Disorder and Sleep Disorders ,
Dr Ajufo is fully licensed in state of Texas and accepting NEW patients. She is experienced in working with a diverse population of motivated patients. She provides high quality, comprehensive, compassionate and patient focused care for patients 6yrs AND ABOVE Focusing on the whole person Dr Ajufo works with the patient to develop individualized treatment plans. Our clinic treats patients with Anxiety,ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, , Depression, Postpartum Depression, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia , Schizoaffective Disorder and Sleep Disorders ,
![Photo of Richard P Diaz, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4500e7cd-cad9-49ff-a7d4-7177547cd407/3/320x400.jpeg)
Richard P Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Se Habla Español. (We speak Spanish.)
Se Habla Español. (We speak Spanish.)
![Photo of Felicia Thomas, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8eb7e35a-f174-40a7-8926-23ea60760af5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Felicia Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Cibolo, TX 78108 (Online Only)
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6a68b66-0356-4989-84ab-b70ae5521013/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of John T Pichot, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72147fec-01d2-4587-af87-ed28ebcb8366/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
Dr. John Pichot is located in Alamo Heights and is a graduate of the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and specializes in psychotherapy with or without medications related to the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and substance use disorders. Dr Pichot is selected for the Best Doctors in America (Database of the top 5% physicians in the country. Specialists who have been chosen by peers in their specialty as best in their field). www.bestdoctors.com. He is licensed in both Texas and Colorado.
![Photo of Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a123ffc5-2fcb-4acf-83de-e3040f424a19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217 (Online Only)
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
![Photo of Belen Ramos, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3afcd091-2a4a-4c37-a308-fae644e3df4f/3/320x400.jpeg)
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
School or work schedule creating difficulty making your appointments? Well, worry no more. I can visit with you as LATE as 8PM. I am a compassionate driven mental health provider. Goal oriented and personable. I enjoy working with my patients to attain a wholistic wellness state of mind. Many people experience depression and other mental health disorders that are non-responsive to conventional medications. There is hope for your symptoms. The clinic also offer the FDA approved Spravato (Esketamine) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Call for inquiries.
![Photo of Dr. Abigail Talley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f587dc80-be9f-4262-a0a4-ca5fdb000fa3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
See more therapy options for Converse
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Converse, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Converse, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Psychosis |
75% | Alcohol Use |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Converse, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Converse?
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.