Psychiatrists in Forney, TX
![Photo of Eunice Bitutu Ontita - Healing Souls Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ec0ee97-218c-48cf-9c33-6778c4ccd93c/1/320x400.png)
Healing Souls Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
At Healing Souls psychiatry, we strive for the best experience by offering non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic mental and behavioral health services. Our goal is to help you lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle. We believe in individualized therapeutic services to meet specific needs of our clients.
At Healing Souls psychiatry, we strive for the best experience by offering non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic mental and behavioral health services. Our goal is to help you lead a more autonomous and productive lifestyle. We believe in individualized therapeutic services to meet specific needs of our clients.
![Photo of Michael Akwo Adelowo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23ca0302-c353-4faa-b637-3ba5c81cfb59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified PMHNP. I have a Bachelor in Pre-Med from TSU and A Bachelor in Science of Nursing from MWSU. I obtained my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. My previous experiences have been working as the director of Behavioral health and substance use services for an FQHC in Brownwood, TX.
I am a board-certified PMHNP. I have a Bachelor in Pre-Med from TSU and A Bachelor in Science of Nursing from MWSU. I obtained my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. My previous experiences have been working as the director of Behavioral health and substance use services for an FQHC in Brownwood, TX.
![Photo of Brandy Cooks-Thomas, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80276262-bc91-43ca-a7f6-526a014d0755/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dually certified PMHNP and FNP. I received my initial bachelor’s degree from Brown University in Human Biology: Brain and Behavior. I received a master’s degree in Teaching and taught for 9 years beginning with Teach for America. I received both my BSN and MSN from Emory University, which is where my nursing career originally began. I received my PMHNP certification from Southeastern Louisiana University. Most of my work experience has been in rural health and involved integrated care amongst outpatient clinic, nursing homes, group homes, school-based clinic, sleep study clinic, ER and primary care.
I am a dually certified PMHNP and FNP. I received my initial bachelor’s degree from Brown University in Human Biology: Brain and Behavior. I received a master’s degree in Teaching and taught for 9 years beginning with Teach for America. I received both my BSN and MSN from Emory University, which is where my nursing career originally began. I received my PMHNP certification from Southeastern Louisiana University. Most of my work experience has been in rural health and involved integrated care amongst outpatient clinic, nursing homes, group homes, school-based clinic, sleep study clinic, ER and primary care.
![Photo of Kosi Ngozi-Ibeh, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83a02fc3-1ec2-4eea-b75b-ac486675eb6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kosi Ngozi-Ibeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
Are you looking for a caring and compassionate partner on your mental health journey? Do you need a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings without judgment? Do you want guidance on treatment options, medication management, and strategies for coping with life's challenges? I'm here to guide you, providing the tools and support you need to achieve your goals. Let's work together to build the future you desire!
Are you looking for a caring and compassionate partner on your mental health journey? Do you need a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings without judgment? Do you want guidance on treatment options, medication management, and strategies for coping with life's challenges? I'm here to guide you, providing the tools and support you need to achieve your goals. Let's work together to build the future you desire!
![Photo of Steve Osasere Erimwioghae, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37810b66-30e6-4cbb-9af0-82db1785e077/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steve Osasere Erimwioghae
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, or experiencing mood swings or psychosis? Do you feel like you are unable to cope or are reaching a breaking point and need to try the medication option? I can help you navigate through these difficult periods with medication management and brief psychotherapy techniques that are evidence-based. I currently see clients for psychiatric evaluation and medication management through telehealth, which makes it convenient for you to see me from the comfort of your home.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, or experiencing mood swings or psychosis? Do you feel like you are unable to cope or are reaching a breaking point and need to try the medication option? I can help you navigate through these difficult periods with medication management and brief psychotherapy techniques that are evidence-based. I currently see clients for psychiatric evaluation and medication management through telehealth, which makes it convenient for you to see me from the comfort of your home.
![Photo of Kimberly Dobbins, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d42e7ad-ecdd-47bb-a18a-84bae1705e3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dobbins brings over a decade of experience and is double board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. In addition to her previous experience as a professor at UT Southwestern in Dallas, her experience comes from multiple care settings to include high acuity Psychiatric ER, VA outpatient mental health clinic and a community Child Psychiatry clinic. Dr. Dobbins will lead the BasePoint Academy’s client treatment as well as seeing patients individually in BasePoint Psychiatry and Wellness.
Dr. Dobbins brings over a decade of experience and is double board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. In addition to her previous experience as a professor at UT Southwestern in Dallas, her experience comes from multiple care settings to include high acuity Psychiatric ER, VA outpatient mental health clinic and a community Child Psychiatry clinic. Dr. Dobbins will lead the BasePoint Academy’s client treatment as well as seeing patients individually in BasePoint Psychiatry and Wellness.
![Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b52ad77-546b-4778-bedb-76cb1b510983/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
Michael has over a decade of experience as a Nurse Practitioner in various mental health clinic settings. Michael's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults and geriatric adults facing challenges with mental health, intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.
Michael has over a decade of experience as a Nurse Practitioner in various mental health clinic settings. Michael's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults and geriatric adults facing challenges with mental health, intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Micah Duke, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2e74a49-3ad2-48ea-9294-a66eab27c8f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Micah Duke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126 (Online Only)
Micah is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming. Micah specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addiction for all age groups.
Micah is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming. Micah specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addiction for all age groups.
![Photo of Marlisha Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/164532b7-56d7-429b-bb84-0272adde2e36/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mrs . Thomas is an ambitious Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) treating adults (18- 65yo) with mental health disorders (mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, insomnia). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi University for Women. Marlisha later went on to obtain her Master of Science in Nursing from University of Alabama in Birmingham. She works hard to provide her clients a safe zone and a place to feel heard while freely being themselves.
Mrs . Thomas is an ambitious Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) treating adults (18- 65yo) with mental health disorders (mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, insomnia). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi University for Women. Marlisha later went on to obtain her Master of Science in Nursing from University of Alabama in Birmingham. She works hard to provide her clients a safe zone and a place to feel heard while freely being themselves.
![Photo of Kayode Zacchaeus Oluwayomi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79eebd89-b571-408a-9f23-7205bd12298e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayode Zacchaeus Oluwayomi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.
![Photo of Dr. E. Okon Dnp - Edens Vantage , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e145f106-2940-48ff-9f07-7e831245e030/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connecting Competence with Compassion in Behavioral Healthcare… Eden’s Vantage …because we do it right! We build on enviable customers service, collaborative teamplay and Integrity-Driven Business Ethics. To learn more visit https:/www.edensvantage.org Thank you
Connecting Competence with Compassion in Behavioral Healthcare… Eden’s Vantage …because we do it right! We build on enviable customers service, collaborative teamplay and Integrity-Driven Business Ethics. To learn more visit https:/www.edensvantage.org Thank you
![Photo of Omotayo T Gbengaojo - Rehoboth mental health & psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f45cd4d-e838-462b-bef3-1bc1d69f4034/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rehoboth mental health & psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
Mental health struggles does not have to be faced alone
Mental health struggles does not have to be faced alone
![Photo of Solange-Belle Boma - Renew Health Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3db33b4-b980-467b-a715-2c7237140029/3/320x400.jpeg)
Renew Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
Hi, I am Dr. Boma, a DNP prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 11 years of experience. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults improve their mental health. My specialty is bipolar disorder, ADHD (T.OV.A. testing), depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and OCD. My individualized treatment plans are tailored to best fit your needs and goals. I work closely with patients, and they can reach out to us directly. Our purpose is to support & empower clients & their families by providing them with a safe & reliable space to share their stories.
Hi, I am Dr. Boma, a DNP prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 11 years of experience. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults improve their mental health. My specialty is bipolar disorder, ADHD (T.OV.A. testing), depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and OCD. My individualized treatment plans are tailored to best fit your needs and goals. I work closely with patients, and they can reach out to us directly. Our purpose is to support & empower clients & their families by providing them with a safe & reliable space to share their stories.
![Photo of Ayuk Obale, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae79e4ff-ff40-4d19-8051-2fe48310639c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you have loss of interest, or why you consistently have low energy? Do you wonder why one day you are happy and the next day you are sad. Do you wonder why you consistently worry about everything, and you feel like your thoughts are racing in your head? If you answered yes to these questions, I would love to help. I have experience treating individuals from age 14- 99 years old. My focus is anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, and thought disorders. I work collaboratively with my patients and value feedback
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you have loss of interest, or why you consistently have low energy? Do you wonder why one day you are happy and the next day you are sad. Do you wonder why you consistently worry about everything, and you feel like your thoughts are racing in your head? If you answered yes to these questions, I would love to help. I have experience treating individuals from age 14- 99 years old. My focus is anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, and thought disorders. I work collaboratively with my patients and value feedback
![Photo of Alexandrea Waytes - Love Bond Community Outreach- Alexandrea Waytes, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/552ff178-fd5e-484d-868e-5d25b9639de2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Love Bond Community Outreach- Alexandrea Waytes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with two years of specialized experience and over 20 years in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across the lifespan. My journey began as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse, where I honed my skills on a Psychiatric unit, and has evolved into a multifaceted role encompassing both medication management and therapy for individuals ranging from 5 years old to 99 years old. This extensive background has equipped me with a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the diverse needs of my patients.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with two years of specialized experience and over 20 years in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across the lifespan. My journey began as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse, where I honed my skills on a Psychiatric unit, and has evolved into a multifaceted role encompassing both medication management and therapy for individuals ranging from 5 years old to 99 years old. This extensive background has equipped me with a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the diverse needs of my patients.
![Photo of Irene Uke - Alpha Mental Health Services LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c0c0d44-2e64-45e2-ac34-d50b632cc66f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
Accepting SAME day appointments with no wait, in person or virtually . My mission is to provide quality and culturally competent care. Are you depressed, hurting, or having trouble sleeping? Are you easily irritated and stressed out? You don't have to keep suffering. We can help you. Our providers are working in collaboration with an MD who has has numerous years of psychiatric experience. I treat the whole patient and approach our patients with empathy, and compassion. Medication often gives quicker relief, however with our hard work, together with brief solution-focused therapy, we will have the best hope for healing.
Accepting SAME day appointments with no wait, in person or virtually . My mission is to provide quality and culturally competent care. Are you depressed, hurting, or having trouble sleeping? Are you easily irritated and stressed out? You don't have to keep suffering. We can help you. Our providers are working in collaboration with an MD who has has numerous years of psychiatric experience. I treat the whole patient and approach our patients with empathy, and compassion. Medication often gives quicker relief, however with our hard work, together with brief solution-focused therapy, we will have the best hope for healing.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Chika Getrude Agina, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e8795f4-d767-44cc-960c-1ce65cdb0667/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chika Getrude Agina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75181 (Online Only)
Persons with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, and adolescent issues who are seeking good mental health providers to help them will be in good hands with me.
Persons with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, and adolescent issues who are seeking good mental health providers to help them will be in good hands with me.
![Photo of Maria Camacho - Dallas Family Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f806ba8-92d4-4c10-8317-ecba2e0667bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dallas Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
New Patients are welcome with minimal wait time. Maria Camacho is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders and substance use disorders.
New Patients are welcome with minimal wait time. Maria Camacho is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Sandra Kolapo | Anxiety Depression Ptsd Assessment | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04b13d05-aa1f-4717-89f9-38a9b79d1db6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Kolapo | Anxiety Depression Ptsd Assessment | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Stella Center. I hold a Post Master's degree from the University of South Alabama specializing in mental health nursing and psychiatry. At Stella Center, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Stella Center. I hold a Post Master's degree from the University of South Alabama specializing in mental health nursing and psychiatry. At Stella Center, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
![Photo of Olufunke Oludipe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14a9db38-c1fd-4acd-a351-dbf7c0465ef2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olufunke Oludipe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149 (Online Only)
My decision to pursue a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is driven by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. I have had the opportunity to work closely with patients experiencing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I am looking forward to utilizing a holistic approach to providing care, combining medical management with psychotherapy.
My decision to pursue a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is driven by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. I have had the opportunity to work closely with patients experiencing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I am looking forward to utilizing a holistic approach to providing care, combining medical management with psychotherapy.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Forney, TX
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Forney, TX who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
94% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
88% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Forney, TX see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Forney?
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.