Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
![Photo of Richard Brown - In Focus Mental Health PLLC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dae5d7a-31ac-448b-856d-acdb4dd3f21e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
![Photo of Dr. Oluwole Popoola, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eaa437f-8f03-4ee8-855f-479bbeeb3d2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I am currently accepting NEW patients with wait times of 1-5 DAYS . If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use or any other mental health issue, and you are looking for an empathic professional who can understand and meet you where you are, then reach out to me. I will conduct a detailed and unrushed evaluation that focuses on understanding your symptoms. Then, you and I will create a treatment plan that is unique and focused on you in order to successfully get you from where you are to where you want to be.
I am board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I am currently accepting NEW patients with wait times of 1-5 DAYS . If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use or any other mental health issue, and you are looking for an empathic professional who can understand and meet you where you are, then reach out to me. I will conduct a detailed and unrushed evaluation that focuses on understanding your symptoms. Then, you and I will create a treatment plan that is unique and focused on you in order to successfully get you from where you are to where you want to be.
![Photo of Dr. Tanvi Kohli, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9ae8ee1-939f-4bb9-88cc-2bda8c1a7434/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tanvi Kohli is board-certified in general psychiatry and specializes in treating mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders in children and adolescents. Dr. Kohli focuses on psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and utilizes a biopsychosocial approach with patients. She considers the physician-patient relationship a team effort and works collaboratively with patients. Dr. Kohli is committed to providing quality care that is evidence-based and centered around her patients. Treatments include medication management, therapy, and psychoeducation.
Dr. Tanvi Kohli is board-certified in general psychiatry and specializes in treating mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders in children and adolescents. Dr. Kohli focuses on psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and utilizes a biopsychosocial approach with patients. She considers the physician-patient relationship a team effort and works collaboratively with patients. Dr. Kohli is committed to providing quality care that is evidence-based and centered around her patients. Treatments include medication management, therapy, and psychoeducation.
![Photo of Nkechi Nduka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a5d6a74-b544-4216-834d-a7551681003d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They desire a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They desire a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Damilola Salako - Salako Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73849360-ed29-4def-8a52-0493771c1e29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for stopping by and learning more about the services offered at Salako Psychiatry. My first and only priority from the moment you walk through the door is YOU. I wholeheartedly believe that medical and psychiatric care is a collaborative experience and I strive to ensure clear communication of treatment goals and plans so that we are always on the same page. We do not have a waitlist at this time. I offer discounted rates to college and graduate students.
Thank you for stopping by and learning more about the services offered at Salako Psychiatry. My first and only priority from the moment you walk through the door is YOU. I wholeheartedly believe that medical and psychiatric care is a collaborative experience and I strive to ensure clear communication of treatment goals and plans so that we are always on the same page. We do not have a waitlist at this time. I offer discounted rates to college and graduate students.
![Photo of Surin Sehdev - Aware Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8198e57-6c42-4149-abb8-c34218f57b9b/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Aware Behavioral Health we strive to provide each patient with compassion and the highest standard of care. Our mission is to help reduce the universal stigma attached to mental health by increasing awareness and making treatment readily and conveniently accessible.
At Aware Behavioral Health we strive to provide each patient with compassion and the highest standard of care. Our mission is to help reduce the universal stigma attached to mental health by increasing awareness and making treatment readily and conveniently accessible.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c61775a8-ed94-4ee7-a25d-5fe132ddcb7c/1/320x400.png)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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 Lynda Parker - Dr Lynda Parker- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a606a263-c3aa-4d02-b5eb-c9200c627b45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
![Photo of Debbie Weze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7527ca38-641d-4ead-ac63-7031a9bb08b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Weze, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner of Procare Behavioral has years of experience in mental health nursing and delivering quality care to her clients. Her services include Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and Follow up Care. She treats 18 years and older. She specializes in anxiety disorders. depression, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia and Insomnia. She focuses on ensuring her clients are properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. At Procare Behavioral we offer affordable out of pocket rates- Also accepting insurances.
Debbie Weze, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner of Procare Behavioral has years of experience in mental health nursing and delivering quality care to her clients. Her services include Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and Follow up Care. She treats 18 years and older. She specializes in anxiety disorders. depression, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia and Insomnia. She focuses on ensuring her clients are properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. At Procare Behavioral we offer affordable out of pocket rates- Also accepting insurances.
![Photo of Kelvin Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16750914-311b-43b3-b337-7f4d1f92587d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelvin Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Have you ever struggled with lack of confidence, grief, feeling depressed, frustrated, or uncertain about making a difficult transition? If so, I believe we can work together to find a solution. I understand that everyone is unique and likely responds differently to life challenges. At times we may need help distinguishing the things we can and cannot change in our lives; at other times, we need additional encouragement to make necessary changes in our lives. As a nurse for nearly 20 years, building trust, offering hope and words of encouragement, has repeatedly reminded me of the power of empathy and compassion.
Have you ever struggled with lack of confidence, grief, feeling depressed, frustrated, or uncertain about making a difficult transition? If so, I believe we can work together to find a solution. I understand that everyone is unique and likely responds differently to life challenges. At times we may need help distinguishing the things we can and cannot change in our lives; at other times, we need additional encouragement to make necessary changes in our lives. As a nurse for nearly 20 years, building trust, offering hope and words of encouragement, has repeatedly reminded me of the power of empathy and compassion.
![Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29a5d518-e7d6-48ed-8a59-071ee7863304/1/320x400.jpeg)
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
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![Photo of Brittney Hill, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77855905-b698-41c7-b225-0a335025d263/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittney Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201 (Online Only)
Brittney Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She obtained both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas at Tyler. She has over 11 years of experience in nursing working in various fields and with a variety of patient populations. Brittney has experience working with patients needing mental health services both inpatient and outpatient. She is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mental health concerns by increasing access to those needing mental health treatment while providing support, compassion, and understanding.
Brittney Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She obtained both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas at Tyler. She has over 11 years of experience in nursing working in various fields and with a variety of patient populations. Brittney has experience working with patients needing mental health services both inpatient and outpatient. She is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mental health concerns by increasing access to those needing mental health treatment while providing support, compassion, and understanding.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/262eee86-010e-4465-904e-f81f8c2ffb97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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 Tiffany Flood - TeleNP Health, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1505d12a-8ba8-4dac-8bbd-838e0a4d0c72/2/320x400.jpeg)
TeleNP Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety or depression as a secondary issue related to chronic diseases like hypothyroidism, hypertension, and gastrointestinal problems. They seek a provider who can comprehensively address both their psychological and somatic concerns, ensuring a holistic approach to their overall well-being.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety or depression as a secondary issue related to chronic diseases like hypothyroidism, hypertension, and gastrointestinal problems. They seek a provider who can comprehensively address both their psychological and somatic concerns, ensuring a holistic approach to their overall well-being.
![Photo of Cemetrice Muhammed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a20a6073-cb4d-4d6b-bacd-582016ae70de/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cemetrice Muhammed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75247 (Online Only)
Cemetrice is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in treating patients from ages 5-65 and over. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University and has over 6 years of experience in the psychiatric field, with past experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Cemetrice currently has inpatient hospital privileges in three hospitals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She is currently accepting new patients from ages 5 to 65.
Cemetrice is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in treating patients from ages 5-65 and over. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University and has over 6 years of experience in the psychiatric field, with past experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Cemetrice currently has inpatient hospital privileges in three hospitals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She is currently accepting new patients from ages 5 to 65.
![Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28f09e96-5eee-4197-ae93-23b4b0378ce7/2/320x400.jpeg)
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
![Photo of Brandy Messiah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3252e771-14bf-46cb-9a02-f30b7cbbd4fd/1/320x400.png)
Brandy Messiah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Brandy Messiah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals and their families by providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment to foster a strong therapeutic alliance with the patient and/or family. Brandy began a nursing career in 2009 as a Registered Nurse (RN) and spent the next 10 years as a bedside nurse in emergency medicine, psychiatry (outpatient programs & inpatient hospitals), long-term intensive care units (ICU), step-down ICU/cardiac/telemetry, home-health, and hospice.
Brandy Messiah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals and their families by providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment to foster a strong therapeutic alliance with the patient and/or family. Brandy began a nursing career in 2009 as a Registered Nurse (RN) and spent the next 10 years as a bedside nurse in emergency medicine, psychiatry (outpatient programs & inpatient hospitals), long-term intensive care units (ICU), step-down ICU/cardiac/telemetry, home-health, and hospice.
![Photo of Jhaurel Johnson White, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c41bb80-8007-4d63-aa92-d2ff3d0ac9f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jhaurel Johnson White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75224 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
![Photo of Aida Dabreo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50674566-d900-4329-af3a-c7cfe9266a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aida provides treatment for adults with depression, anxiety, victims of narcissistic abuse, women's and mens issues, and medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions.
Aida provides treatment for adults with depression, anxiety, victims of narcissistic abuse, women's and mens issues, and medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Chinazo Obi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1f638f6-b401-4226-812c-f1618bcfe4ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chinazo Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219 (Online Only)
Nazo is a Holistic and Functional Medicine Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, bringing over 9 years of diverse medical experience. Throughout her career, she has encountered individuals grappling with health challenges despite multiple medication regimens. This spurred her journey into Holistic Medicine, where she prioritizes a holistic approach to care. Gone are the days of merely masking symptoms with medications. She believe that health transcends mere survival; it's about thriving. She’s dedicated to changing the narrative of mood disorders. She’s here to support you on your healing journey and together you’ll rewrite your story
Nazo is a Holistic and Functional Medicine Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, bringing over 9 years of diverse medical experience. Throughout her career, she has encountered individuals grappling with health challenges despite multiple medication regimens. This spurred her journey into Holistic Medicine, where she prioritizes a holistic approach to care. Gone are the days of merely masking symptoms with medications. She believe that health transcends mere survival; it's about thriving. She’s dedicated to changing the narrative of mood disorders. She’s here to support you on your healing journey and together you’ll rewrite your story
See more therapy options for Dallas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX
400+
Average cost per session
$181
Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Dallas, TX see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dallas?
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.