Psychiatrists in East Bernard, TX
Active Minds Rx
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
East Bernard, TX 77435
My own journey to finding a work and life balance lifestyle has helped me gain insight to the many challenges one encounters in day to day life. I have over 25 years working in healthcare with 7 years combined working as as a Family Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, etc., I am committed in working together to develop an individualize treatment plan for you to achieve your emotional and physical goals. Start your own journey today and schedule an on-line or in-person evaluation. (Rates: $200 1hr, $100 30mins).
My own journey to finding a work and life balance lifestyle has helped me gain insight to the many challenges one encounters in day to day life. I have over 25 years working in healthcare with 7 years combined working as as a Family Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, etc., I am committed in working together to develop an individualize treatment plan for you to achieve your emotional and physical goals. Start your own journey today and schedule an on-line or in-person evaluation. (Rates: $200 1hr, $100 30mins).
Online Psychiatrists
Mutiat Olawunmi Accepting New Patients-No Waiting List!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
All clients accepted. Helping everyone is what Lifeline Medical Center is all about. Our hearts care for all. Call today to schedule with us.
All clients accepted. Helping everyone is what Lifeline Medical Center is all about. Our hearts care for all. Call today to schedule with us.
Seeking mental health care can be an overwhelming experience but my approach is to break it down into simple steps. I meet my patients and families where they are, understand their concerns and collaborate with them to create a plan that we all can buy into. To create the best patient experience, I provide longer appointment times as well as my patients and families have my direct contact number so that we stay connected in between visits. I believe that quality time and collaborating with my patients and families leads to the best mental health care.
Seeking mental health care can be an overwhelming experience but my approach is to break it down into simple steps. I meet my patients and families where they are, understand their concerns and collaborate with them to create a plan that we all can buy into. To create the best patient experience, I provide longer appointment times as well as my patients and families have my direct contact number so that we stay connected in between visits. I believe that quality time and collaborating with my patients and families leads to the best mental health care.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
Enabled Care Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77077
Like the saying goes "A problem, identified is half solved". Alozie A, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is an experienced national board-certified practitioner who has practiced for several years and understands the importance of good mental health. In the face of anxiety, depression, daunting life challenges, traumatic life issues as well as substance use and dependence, it important to know the right therapeutic approach, as well as medication combination, which leads to the best outcomes.
Like the saying goes "A problem, identified is half solved". Alozie A, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is an experienced national board-certified practitioner who has practiced for several years and understands the importance of good mental health. In the face of anxiety, depression, daunting life challenges, traumatic life issues as well as substance use and dependence, it important to know the right therapeutic approach, as well as medication combination, which leads to the best outcomes.
Dr. Cho brings 27 years of extensive clinical research experience in studies of cognition, brain physiology and neurostimulation for psychiatric disorders. Dr. Cho received his M.D. and M.Sc. in Neuroscience from the world-renowned institution, the University of Toronto. He also completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Pittsburgh, and further graduate training in Psychology at Princeton University. Dr. Cho brings this extensive research and clinical expertise together with his warm, compassionate approach to improving the lives of patients with state-of-the-art treatments.
Dr. Cho brings 27 years of extensive clinical research experience in studies of cognition, brain physiology and neurostimulation for psychiatric disorders. Dr. Cho received his M.D. and M.Sc. in Neuroscience from the world-renowned institution, the University of Toronto. He also completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Pittsburgh, and further graduate training in Psychology at Princeton University. Dr. Cho brings this extensive research and clinical expertise together with his warm, compassionate approach to improving the lives of patients with state-of-the-art treatments.
Hello, I’m Dr. Selek, and I’m here to guide you through the intricate world of mental health. With over a decade in academic psychiatry, my mission is to offer personalized, evidence-based treatments empowering you to regain control of your mental well-being. As a dedicated physician and accomplished scholar, I've authored 100+ articles, book chapters, and scientific presentations. I wholeheartedly believe in a practice where third parties don’t dictate the course of treatment or compromise the quality of care our patients receive.
Hello, I’m Dr. Selek, and I’m here to guide you through the intricate world of mental health. With over a decade in academic psychiatry, my mission is to offer personalized, evidence-based treatments empowering you to regain control of your mental well-being. As a dedicated physician and accomplished scholar, I've authored 100+ articles, book chapters, and scientific presentations. I wholeheartedly believe in a practice where third parties don’t dictate the course of treatment or compromise the quality of care our patients receive.
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77015 (Online Only)
Negative thought patterns can leave one feeling stuck and in a depressive state. With plans, goals, and visions unattainable due to the mental battle of self-doubt, isolation, and hopelessness. Did you know the longer one lasts in a chronic state of anxiety, the dire the need for treatment becomes? Anxiety can result in emotional paralysis- or a feeling of not being able to move due to multiple brain tabs open. How do we treat anxiety and other mood struggles? Research suggests talk therapy as the first-line treatment for negative mood episodes. However, medications may be an additional tool and can be an option for you
Negative thought patterns can leave one feeling stuck and in a depressive state. With plans, goals, and visions unattainable due to the mental battle of self-doubt, isolation, and hopelessness. Did you know the longer one lasts in a chronic state of anxiety, the dire the need for treatment becomes? Anxiety can result in emotional paralysis- or a feeling of not being able to move due to multiple brain tabs open. How do we treat anxiety and other mood struggles? Research suggests talk therapy as the first-line treatment for negative mood episodes. However, medications may be an additional tool and can be an option for you
Dr. Afzal helps with depression and anxiety and creates tailored treatment plans to enhance emotional well-being. Dr. Afzal is empathetic, self-reflective, and relatable. She seeks patients committed to improving their present over their past. Believing psychiatry demands high empathy to understand mental illness,
Dr. Afzal helps with depression and anxiety and creates tailored treatment plans to enhance emotional well-being. Dr. Afzal is empathetic, self-reflective, and relatable. She seeks patients committed to improving their present over their past. Believing psychiatry demands high empathy to understand mental illness,
Sandra Bialose is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with an over 7 years in experience mental health. I warmly welcome those taking the bold step of reaching out to address their mental well-being, assuring them that they are in capable hands. My unwavering commitment to providing compassionate and effective care, combined with my extensive experience and qualifications, establishes me as a trusted professional.
Sandra Bialose is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with an over 7 years in experience mental health. I warmly welcome those taking the bold step of reaching out to address their mental well-being, assuring them that they are in capable hands. My unwavering commitment to providing compassionate and effective care, combined with my extensive experience and qualifications, establishes me as a trusted professional.
Odochi Onungwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009 (Online Only)
Hello everyone, my name is Dr. Odochi Onungwa and I am a Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Helping patients achieve a state of mental stability is my great passion. I see patients across the life and treat major psychiatric illnesses. My approach to therapy utilizes Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, Humanistic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client Centered Therapy, Holistic, Mindfulness-Based, and Supportive.
Hello everyone, my name is Dr. Odochi Onungwa and I am a Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Helping patients achieve a state of mental stability is my great passion. I see patients across the life and treat major psychiatric illnesses. My approach to therapy utilizes Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, Humanistic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client Centered Therapy, Holistic, Mindfulness-Based, and Supportive.
Sherry Grogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
I specialize in diagnosing and treating individuals facing anxiety and mood disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, OCD, psychotic disorders, life transitions, relationship challenges, and work or academic issues within the context of underlying mental health conditions. With over 13 years of experience as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Master Psychopharmacologist, I integrate the best of psychiatric medical and nursing care. I work collaboratively with each individual, and we develop personalized treatment plans that support your journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating individuals facing anxiety and mood disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, OCD, psychotic disorders, life transitions, relationship challenges, and work or academic issues within the context of underlying mental health conditions. With over 13 years of experience as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Master Psychopharmacologist, I integrate the best of psychiatric medical and nursing care. I work collaboratively with each individual, and we develop personalized treatment plans that support your journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Picture navigating life’s hurdles, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client is someone looking for understanding and practical solutions to their mental health concerns. They aspire to regain control, rediscover hope, and lead a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re in search of a therapeutic environment at Legion Health where respect and empowerment are paramount, you’ve found the right place.
Picture navigating life’s hurdles, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client is someone looking for understanding and practical solutions to their mental health concerns. They aspire to regain control, rediscover hope, and lead a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re in search of a therapeutic environment at Legion Health where respect and empowerment are paramount, you’ve found the right place.
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. 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 seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. 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 seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Kimberly Justice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Hi! I have over 11 years of clinical nursing experience and I am a current board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force Combat Veteran.
Hi! I have over 11 years of clinical nursing experience and I am a current board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force Combat Veteran.
Eshcol Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77036 (Online Only)
We are accepting patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 8 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
We are accepting patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 8 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
Kemi Fawehinmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77042 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
My name is Hai Trinh. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing as PMHNP-BC since 2020. I have completed a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offered by the University of Texas-Houston School of Nursing, from which I graduated in 2005. Then, I completed a two-year Master of Science in Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Walden University-Minnesota, and graduated on May 12, 2019.
My name is Hai Trinh. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing as PMHNP-BC since 2020. I have completed a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offered by the University of Texas-Houston School of Nursing, from which I graduated in 2005. Then, I completed a two-year Master of Science in Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Walden University-Minnesota, and graduated on May 12, 2019.
Chineye combines the science of general nursing, psychiatry, and neurology to treat clients with a wide range of mental health disorders. She treats clients age 6 and older. Her special interest is in helping patients using a wholistic approach with emphasis on patient centered outcome to provide mental health care.
Chineye combines the science of general nursing, psychiatry, and neurology to treat clients with a wide range of mental health disorders. She treats clients age 6 and older. Her special interest is in helping patients using a wholistic approach with emphasis on patient centered outcome to provide mental health care.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing within themselves by taking a holistic approach to providing patient-centered care. I provide compassionate care, actively listening to my patients’. My evidence-based approach allows me to tailor treatment plans that address specific needs, whether managing anxiety, overcoming depression, or navigating life's challenges.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing within themselves by taking a holistic approach to providing patient-centered care. I provide compassionate care, actively listening to my patients’. My evidence-based approach allows me to tailor treatment plans that address specific needs, whether managing anxiety, overcoming depression, or navigating life's challenges.
See more therapy options for East Bernard
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in East Bernard, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in East Bernard, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in East Bernard, TX see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in East Bernard?
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.