Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/756f3ecf-1828-47d7-b377-560ba2985ec0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107 (Online Only)
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
![Photo of Lindsey O'Neill, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db5966a-5048-48c7-ae2a-fc856de43a22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey O'Neill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eafb34d-cb18-4d1e-896e-0eb11faacccd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Mercy Itesa - Pine Psychiatric Care Services LLC- Texas, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10375332-4b50-4e9c-9aef-3239060ee836/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pine Psychiatric Care Services LLC- Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76137
Now Accepting New Patients! Mercy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is experience in working with individuals across the life span, struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and other symptoms or diagnosis. Currently, we are accepting new patients within a week, and we are flexible. We take pride in listening to our patients and providing evaluation, individualized medication management, and treatment plan. We are dedicated to exceptional and professional patient care. Please contact us, we look forward to working with you. Licensed In Texas
Now Accepting New Patients! Mercy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is experience in working with individuals across the life span, struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and other symptoms or diagnosis. Currently, we are accepting new patients within a week, and we are flexible. We take pride in listening to our patients and providing evaluation, individualized medication management, and treatment plan. We are dedicated to exceptional and professional patient care. Please contact us, we look forward to working with you. Licensed In Texas
![Photo of Satang Ann, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bae44360-8524-418a-a942-58c204a742af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Satang Ann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76120 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. SAME-DAY appointments are available. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available. Currently in-network with BCBS, Superior Medicaid, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, and Medicare in Texas. Private Pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients where they are WITHOUT making them feel judged. During our initial session, we will talk about what led you to me, and at the end of the session, we will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments.
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. SAME-DAY appointments are available. After-hours and WEEKEND appointments are available. Currently in-network with BCBS, Superior Medicaid, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, and Medicare in Texas. Private Pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients where they are WITHOUT making them feel judged. During our initial session, we will talk about what led you to me, and at the end of the session, we will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments.
![Photo of Emily Cook, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2811189-8bef-41f2-bd5b-662c67edf582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Emily Cook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Texas Christian University. Emily believes that everyone is deserving of a functional and fulfilling quality of life. She is an engaging and compassionate provider who emphasizes empathetic listening and an evidence-based approach, founded in the most up to date science. Emily believes in providing treatment that is tailored to each individual's unique needs.
![Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543630be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients! visits are remote. Medications will be prescribed electronically. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication + therapy will help improve your symptoms.
Now accepting new patients! visits are remote. Medications will be prescribed electronically. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication + therapy will help improve your symptoms.
![Photo of Kathleen M. Dahle, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/183a1654-f00f-4eeb-94e7-dcf54aea5afd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen M. Dahle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76111 (Online Only)
Hello. A little about myself: I am a seasoned professional with decades of experience as a RN, including 20-plus years in psychiatry. My commitment is to serve - serve my patients and clients. This dedication to service has earned me honors to include The DAISY Award from the DAISY Foundation, and recognition as a 2020 Top 10 Nurse by The Fort Worth Magazine. My education includes a MSN from Benedictine University, followed by a PMHNP certificate from The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, subsequently earning board certification from the American Nursing Credentialing Center.
Hello. A little about myself: I am a seasoned professional with decades of experience as a RN, including 20-plus years in psychiatry. My commitment is to serve - serve my patients and clients. This dedication to service has earned me honors to include The DAISY Award from the DAISY Foundation, and recognition as a 2020 Top 10 Nurse by The Fort Worth Magazine. My education includes a MSN from Benedictine University, followed by a PMHNP certificate from The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, subsequently earning board certification from the American Nursing Credentialing Center.
![Photo of Stacy Edosonmwan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f31b9cb-97a9-4031-9d3f-5fcf60e919b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Edosonmwan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104 (Online Only)
A key component of my practice is the emphasis on progressively improving patient outcomes. This involves not only addressing immediate concerns, but also equipping patients with the tools and strategies necessary for long-term resilience and self-efficacy. I prioritize building a collaborative relationship with my patients, fostering a safe and non-judgmental space where they can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
A key component of my practice is the emphasis on progressively improving patient outcomes. This involves not only addressing immediate concerns, but also equipping patients with the tools and strategies necessary for long-term resilience and self-efficacy. I prioritize building a collaborative relationship with my patients, fostering a safe and non-judgmental space where they can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
![Photo of Michael Millstone - Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c417b063-ffa4-436a-91b0-efedc3dfbd6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
![Photo of Kyle Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27c797af-9ed4-43fe-9cd0-ffd4237c4568/2/320x400.png)
My mission in the practice is to provide high quality evidence-based modern psychiatric care with the goal of improving functioning and performance in your professional, personal or athletic life along with your everyday experience.
My mission in the practice is to provide high quality evidence-based modern psychiatric care with the goal of improving functioning and performance in your professional, personal or athletic life along with your everyday experience.
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Alamgir Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Accepting NEW patients. ONLINE appointments available the SAME-DAY, 7 days a week, including late afternoons, evenings, and nights on both weekdays and weekends. Dr. Alamgir is experienced in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and PTSD. You can contact me directly, and I respond to my patients promptly. To begin the intake process or for questions about my services, send a message (by selecting "Email Us" and providing the requested information).
Accepting NEW patients. ONLINE appointments available the SAME-DAY, 7 days a week, including late afternoons, evenings, and nights on both weekdays and weekends. Dr. Alamgir is experienced in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and PTSD. You can contact me directly, and I respond to my patients promptly. To begin the intake process or for questions about my services, send a message (by selecting "Email Us" and providing the requested information).
![Photo of Nzima Etta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c6bd561-ff3b-4457-884a-d8297f0d5640/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m Nzima Josephine Etta, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 2 yrs of experience as a provider and over 6 yrs in the behavioral health setting. I’m experienced in the evaluation and management of mental health.
I’m Nzima Josephine Etta, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 2 yrs of experience as a provider and over 6 yrs in the behavioral health setting. I’m experienced in the evaluation and management of mental health.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2be3dd17-8d70-4e72-9aad-dcd7e1a7675f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4509907f-c154-48ef-9bee-8d7854a18e23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Nzima Josephine Etta - Sound Mind Holistic Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82516e73-8445-45f9-b3f3-1c1f6e11958e/2/320x400.png)
Sound Mind Holistic Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76116
We accept new patients. Are you feeling down and unable to get out of bed? Do you feel overwhelmed or cry for no reasons? Do you have trouble focusing? Do you struggle falling sleeping or staying asleep and feeling tired in the morning? Do you feel anxious and have anxiety/panic attacks? Are you dealing with mood swings or struggle to get along with people? Have you experienced trauma and having nightmares/ flashbacks? We are here to assist you. We offer same-day Virtual and In-person psychiatric services from 7 am- 7 pm 7 days a week for Texas, Oregon, Washington State
We accept new patients. Are you feeling down and unable to get out of bed? Do you feel overwhelmed or cry for no reasons? Do you have trouble focusing? Do you struggle falling sleeping or staying asleep and feeling tired in the morning? Do you feel anxious and have anxiety/panic attacks? Are you dealing with mood swings or struggle to get along with people? Have you experienced trauma and having nightmares/ flashbacks? We are here to assist you. We offer same-day Virtual and In-person psychiatric services from 7 am- 7 pm 7 days a week for Texas, Oregon, Washington State
![Photo of Mallory George, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2bbbb89-33d9-4814-98c0-5ba3d476c6fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I believe mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are feeling stressed, having difficulty coping with life, or experiencing a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function as your best self, let me help. Providing compassionate and quality care for my clients in a safe, non-judgmental environment is important to me. I am highly trained and educated in performing psychiatric evaluations in order to accurately diagnose and treat a wide range of issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, substance use issues, and ADHD.
Hello! I believe mental wellness plays a vital role in our overall health. If you are feeling stressed, having difficulty coping with life, or experiencing a mental health concern that is interfering with your ability to function as your best self, let me help. Providing compassionate and quality care for my clients in a safe, non-judgmental environment is important to me. I am highly trained and educated in performing psychiatric evaluations in order to accurately diagnose and treat a wide range of issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, substance use issues, and ADHD.
![Photo of Jocelyn Jingwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c02e88aa-6000-4207-a414-c6d412d47fc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
![Photo of Patrice Garcia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51341239-e71f-481f-b237-0ef54f8fb302/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrice Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76123 (Online Only)
Dr. Patrice Garcia is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctoral degree. She is board-certified, and state licensed in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Florida, and New York as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Dr. Patrice Garcia is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctoral degree. She is board-certified, and state licensed in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Florida, and New York as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Ugonna Okafor, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67cb0bda-4500-4910-a861-f48569a05a15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugonna Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76179 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
See more therapy options for Fort Worth
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
95% | Aetna |
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Worth, TX see their clients
51% | Online Only | |
49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Worth?
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.