Psychiatrists in Duncanville, TX

Photo of Nwamaka Emeruem, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
(214) 974-4404 View (214) 974-4404
Photo of Adannaya Inyama, MPAS, PA-C, MPH, Physician Assistant
Adannaya Inyama
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, MPH
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75116
Hello, I am honored to introduce myself as a disciple of Christ and a dedicated Physician Assistant. My commitment lies in providing comprehensive mental health care that is holistic and patient-centered. I place great emphasis on collaborating with each individual, ensuring their active participation in decision-making throughout their healing process. With a unique blend of medical expertise and psychological insight, I offer compassionate care grounded in evidence-based practices. Every person who walks through my door is greeted with respect and empathy, regardless of their background or struggles. My faith serves as the
Hello, I am honored to introduce myself as a disciple of Christ and a dedicated Physician Assistant. My commitment lies in providing comprehensive mental health care that is holistic and patient-centered. I place great emphasis on collaborating with each individual, ensuring their active participation in decision-making throughout their healing process. With a unique blend of medical expertise and psychological insight, I offer compassionate care grounded in evidence-based practices. Every person who walks through my door is greeted with respect and empathy, regardless of their background or struggles. My faith serves as the
(469) 421-7741 View (469) 421-7741
Photo of Adeline Abam - Adelson Behavioral/Mental Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adelson Behavioral/Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116
Dr Abam, DNP is passionately dedicated to provide comprehensive psychiatric services. I manage Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, & Schizophrenia . If you want someone to listen and understand. I am here. You don’t have to walk your health journey alone. Mental health is REAL. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. I will treat you as an individual and make an individualized your plan for you. I have over 10 years experience in Medication Management. I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am dual-licensed as PMHNP & FNP.
Dr Abam, DNP is passionately dedicated to provide comprehensive psychiatric services. I manage Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, & Schizophrenia . If you want someone to listen and understand. I am here. You don’t have to walk your health journey alone. Mental health is REAL. Together, we will make a plan that works for you. I will treat you as an individual and make an individualized your plan for you. I have over 10 years experience in Medication Management. I have experience in both medical problems and psychiatric problems. I am dual-licensed as PMHNP & FNP.
(469) 218-2722 View (469) 218-2722
Photo of Dr. Adeola Iyamah Dnp Pmhnp-Bc, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Adeola Iyamah Dnp Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116
Your Partner in Your Journey to Recovery. Your mental health journey need not be walked alone. Begin your recovery here. Hoping to contribute to eradicating the stigma associated with mental health. We serve individuals ages 18 and above.
Your Partner in Your Journey to Recovery. Your mental health journey need not be walked alone. Begin your recovery here. Hoping to contribute to eradicating the stigma associated with mental health. We serve individuals ages 18 and above.
(682) 299-6491 View (682) 299-6491
Photo of Lilian Melvis O Everts, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Melvis O Everts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75137
Lilian Everts is a board-certified PMHNP with experience in treating mental disorders in all ages. Mental illness knows no boundaries, age, race, gender, social and economic status. Everyone can be a victim. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Are you noticing any changes in your mental health? Are you having feelings of intense fear, restlessness, panic, loss of control, inability to focus, increase sadness, hopelessness, mood swings, addiction, suicidal thoughts, hearing or seeing things that are not present.
Lilian Everts is a board-certified PMHNP with experience in treating mental disorders in all ages. Mental illness knows no boundaries, age, race, gender, social and economic status. Everyone can be a victim. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Are you noticing any changes in your mental health? Are you having feelings of intense fear, restlessness, panic, loss of control, inability to focus, increase sadness, hopelessness, mood swings, addiction, suicidal thoughts, hearing or seeing things that are not present.
(214) 949-4826 View (214) 949-4826
Photo of Olayiwola Raphael Ilori, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olayiwola Raphael Ilori
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116  (Online Only)
I am Olayiwola Raphael Ilori, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the states of Texas and Pennsylvania. I bring a wealth of experience dedicated to fostering my patients' optimal quality of life. My mission is to provide personalized, evidence-based psychiatric care that addresses individual needs comprehensively. I am fervently committed to delivering top-tier mental health services across all stages of life.
I am Olayiwola Raphael Ilori, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the states of Texas and Pennsylvania. I bring a wealth of experience dedicated to fostering my patients' optimal quality of life. My mission is to provide personalized, evidence-based psychiatric care that addresses individual needs comprehensively. I am fervently committed to delivering top-tier mental health services across all stages of life.
(469) 630-7956 View (469) 630-7956
Photo of Dr. Ebere Ejike-Ilechukwu, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ebere Ejike-Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75116  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. I want to appreciate your courage in taking that initial bold step in seeking help for your mental health needs. Are you or your loved one dealing with crippling effects of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and Insomnia? Have you been waiting for months to get the treatment you deserve for your mental health? Getting an early diagnosis and treatment tailored to you is our ultimate priority. The wait is over because Accessible Psychiatry PLLC is the right place for you.
Hello and welcome. I want to appreciate your courage in taking that initial bold step in seeking help for your mental health needs. Are you or your loved one dealing with crippling effects of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and Insomnia? Have you been waiting for months to get the treatment you deserve for your mental health? Getting an early diagnosis and treatment tailored to you is our ultimate priority. The wait is over because Accessible Psychiatry PLLC is the right place for you.
(469) 382-4218 View (469) 382-4218
Photo of Collins Iyamah - Compassion Behavioral Health Inc., MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Compassion Behavioral Health Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75116
We want our clients to understand that they are not alone regardless of what their condition may sound or look like rather be rest assured that Compassion Behavioral Health will provide interventions to restore hopes.
We want our clients to understand that they are not alone regardless of what their condition may sound or look like rather be rest assured that Compassion Behavioral Health will provide interventions to restore hopes.
(972) 332-5551 View (972) 332-5551
Photo of Ferdinand Akoko - Safe Space psychiatry group, PMHNP, Freddy, Akoko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Safe Space psychiatry group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Freddy, Akoko
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116  (Online Only)
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
(206) 759-5507 View (206) 759-5507

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Nicholson-Guidry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104  (Online Only)
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
I empower you to create a safe and supportive space where your mental health and happiness come first.
(469) 871-5046 View (469) 871-5046
Photo of Joshua Rashon Petty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joshua Rashon Petty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75052  (Online Only)
My name is Joshua Rashon Petty, and I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I’am really excited about the opportunity to support you in "Discovering Clarity, Embracing Balance, and Inspiring Change". I have specialized in emotional health for eight years, with experience treating adolescents and adults with various diagnoses.
My name is Joshua Rashon Petty, and I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I’am really excited about the opportunity to support you in "Discovering Clarity, Embracing Balance, and Inspiring Change". I have specialized in emotional health for eight years, with experience treating adolescents and adults with various diagnoses.
(832) 979-6238 View (832) 979-6238
Photo of Yvonne Joseph, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yvonne Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Desoto, TX 75115  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Yvonne. Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, Schizophrenia, Mood swings, Eating disorder, ADHD, Insomnia, Trauma/PTSD, Personality disorder, or substance abuse? I am here for you and I care!
Hi, I’m Yvonne. Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, Schizophrenia, Mood swings, Eating disorder, ADHD, Insomnia, Trauma/PTSD, Personality disorder, or substance abuse? I am here for you and I care!
(512) 575-8754 View (512) 575-8754
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Service, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Service
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, TX 75146
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services (via video) across Texas. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments if needed. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home.
(469) 991-1636 View (469) 991-1636
Photo of Adebukola Aderemi - Devine Behavioral Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Devine Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75051  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years in nursing experience and 7 years of mental health experience, I am ready to deliver the highest level of quality care to the mentally ill community. I strive to deliver the best quality services to all my patients at all levels.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years in nursing experience and 7 years of mental health experience, I am ready to deliver the highest level of quality care to the mentally ill community. I strive to deliver the best quality services to all my patients at all levels.
(214) 712-8251 View (214) 712-8251
Photo of Smink O Achila - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75054
Smink Achila is a board-certified nurse practitioner, graduated from university of Texas at Arlington with Masters in Nursing in mental health. He has broad experience in mental health over 13 years' experience. Smink has experience in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar among other mental health needs. His approach is holistic in nature utilizing evidence-based approach to mental health and non-pharmacological interventions.
Smink Achila is a board-certified nurse practitioner, graduated from university of Texas at Arlington with Masters in Nursing in mental health. He has broad experience in mental health over 13 years' experience. Smink has experience in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar among other mental health needs. His approach is holistic in nature utilizing evidence-based approach to mental health and non-pharmacological interventions.
(469) 923-2053 View (469) 923-2053
Photo of Fadekemi Olude - Goodness Psychiatry, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Goodness Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75051
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you.
(214) 751-8913 View (214) 751-8913
Photo of Jelilat Buhari - Goodness Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Goodness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75051
Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place ? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief , ADHD, addiction , anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical , emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution ? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you .
Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place ? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief , ADHD, addiction , anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical , emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution ? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you .
(214) 441-6393 View (214) 441-6393
Photo of Rebecca Bumia Atanode, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Bumia Atanode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75054
Rebecca Atanode is dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, certified by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Rebecca has more than a decade of clinical experience working with tens, adolescents and adults of various mental health disorders in patient settings . She is experienced in psychiatric evaluation, medication management and she uses holistic approach in treating her clients. She accepting new clients virtual,and licensed in Maryland, Oregon, and Washington State. Book a consultation today and you will not regret it
Rebecca Atanode is dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, certified by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Rebecca has more than a decade of clinical experience working with tens, adolescents and adults of various mental health disorders in patient settings . She is experienced in psychiatric evaluation, medication management and she uses holistic approach in treating her clients. She accepting new clients virtual,and licensed in Maryland, Oregon, and Washington State. Book a consultation today and you will not regret it
(443) 291-2656 View (443) 291-2656
Photo of Oluwatoyin Aluko - Mind-touch Psychiatry & Integrative Care, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind-touch Psychiatry & Integrative Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Accepting NEW Patients! I am committed to providing my patients with the latest and most effective treatments available. I specialize in mental health, evidence-based psychiatry that supports you in achieving your mental health goals. I draw on psychological evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy, to create a comprehensive treatment plan for wellness alongside theories of mindfulness and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) . My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorder, psychosis, behavioral and emotional disorders in kids, PTSD, schizophrenia, and mood disorder.
Accepting NEW Patients! I am committed to providing my patients with the latest and most effective treatments available. I specialize in mental health, evidence-based psychiatry that supports you in achieving your mental health goals. I draw on psychological evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy, to create a comprehensive treatment plan for wellness alongside theories of mindfulness and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) . My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorder, psychosis, behavioral and emotional disorders in kids, PTSD, schizophrenia, and mood disorder.
(682) 327-0179 View (682) 327-0179
Photo of Adanna Oladejo, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adanna Oladejo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice, my name is Adanna Oladejo, and I am a Board-certified PMHNP with experience treating most mental health-related conditions and struggles. My experience in the several years of being a Nurse Practitioner encompasses the treatment of Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with life situations and/or medical comorbidities; with a particular focus on individuals, groups, and families. My goal is to provide mental health treatment in line with evidenced-based practice guidelines keeping ethical approaches in mind while partnering with you to prioritize your mental wellbeing.
Welcome to my practice, my name is Adanna Oladejo, and I am a Board-certified PMHNP with experience treating most mental health-related conditions and struggles. My experience in the several years of being a Nurse Practitioner encompasses the treatment of Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with life situations and/or medical comorbidities; with a particular focus on individuals, groups, and families. My goal is to provide mental health treatment in line with evidenced-based practice guidelines keeping ethical approaches in mind while partnering with you to prioritize your mental wellbeing.
(214) 833-5709 View (214) 833-5709

See more therapy options for Duncanville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Duncanville, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Duncanville, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
89% ADHD
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Psychosis

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Duncanville, TX see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Duncanville?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.