Psychiatrists in Howard County, TX
![Photo of Gabriel Eleda - San Gabriel Psychiatry, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-B, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f536e3d3-7850-4149-9430-7f427fea538a/2/320x400.jpeg)
San Gabriel Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-B, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Spring, TX 79720
I am a dual board certified Family Psychiatric and Adult Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner that believes in taking a holistic approach when treating my clients. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. Call us today or send us an email at info@sangp.org
I am a dual board certified Family Psychiatric and Adult Gerontology Primary care Nurse Practitioner that believes in taking a holistic approach when treating my clients. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. Call us today or send us an email at info@sangp.org
![Photo of Blessing Iwuozo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17aa3f28-6ee0-4c0a-971f-8d84ce266072/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blessing Iwuozo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Big Spring, TX 79721 (Online Only)
Looking for excellent mental health care? You’re in the right place. With extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and insomnia, I offer both knowledge and practical skills. I use medication management when necessary and care for patients aged 13 and up in Arizona, Colorado, and Texas.
Looking for excellent mental health care? You’re in the right place. With extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and insomnia, I offer both knowledge and practical skills. I use medication management when necessary and care for patients aged 13 and up in Arizona, Colorado, and Texas.
![Photo of Nadia Eleda, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8727b51b-87c9-4d79-a9ab-5922ff52cf4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nadia Eleda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Spring, TX 79720
Embark on a transformative healthcare journey guided by my unwavering dedication and extensive expertise as a compassionate nurse practitioner. Holding dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring over 13 years of devoted experience in the healthcare field. In my practice, I am committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and families. Recognized for my warm and understanding approach, I strive to cultivate a supportive environment where your well-being is prioritized.
Embark on a transformative healthcare journey guided by my unwavering dedication and extensive expertise as a compassionate nurse practitioner. Holding dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring over 13 years of devoted experience in the healthcare field. In my practice, I am committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and families. Recognized for my warm and understanding approach, I strive to cultivate a supportive environment where your well-being is prioritized.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Laura Stiger, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25418349-9f03-4bfc-9cc2-865c9308c809/1/320x400.png)
Laura Stiger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Midland, TX 79703 (Online Only)
I'm Laurie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Laurie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4a71b3a-fc92-47a3-b2cf-5a22bede77e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Midland, TX 79705 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients! Welcome to Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group, an Integrative Psychiatry Practice founded on the belief that healing is a holistic process. We help children, adults, elders, and veterans with depression, anxiety, untreated ADHD, trauma, addictions, aging concerns, and life transitions build self-confidence, clarify their inner purpose, establish calmness of mind, and find fulfillment in life and love. Our goal is not just to prescribe you a medication and send you on your way. It is a long-term, trusted partner in helping you achieve a happy and fulfilling life. we believe in high-quality, affordable care.
Accepting NEW Patients! Welcome to Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group, an Integrative Psychiatry Practice founded on the belief that healing is a holistic process. We help children, adults, elders, and veterans with depression, anxiety, untreated ADHD, trauma, addictions, aging concerns, and life transitions build self-confidence, clarify their inner purpose, establish calmness of mind, and find fulfillment in life and love. Our goal is not just to prescribe you a medication and send you on your way. It is a long-term, trusted partner in helping you achieve a happy and fulfilling life. we believe in high-quality, affordable care.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a12bb2b1-947e-490c-af27-1c07c4e7964f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Ashkan Soltan - MindWell Urgent Care, MD, FAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edc229f3-18b3-4d08-934b-c7bd42f37482/2/320x400.jpeg)
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
![Photo of Dr. Joy Ichie Pmhnp-Bc Dnp, PMHNP, BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fc6ae33-b48f-40f2-9820-b5d96f048e58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joy Ichie Pmhnp-Bc Dnp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Odessa, TX 79761 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients with virtual flexible evening, and weekend availabilities across the state of Texas. I am a licensed and board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over 10 years of experience in psychiatry with all age groups in both outpatient and inpatient settings. If you have been feeling sad, angry, not sleeping well, unable to focus, anxious, or have experienced a traumatic event or any other concerns then give me a call. Let us work together and identify the proper treatment options for optimal functioning.
Now accepting new patients with virtual flexible evening, and weekend availabilities across the state of Texas. I am a licensed and board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over 10 years of experience in psychiatry with all age groups in both outpatient and inpatient settings. If you have been feeling sad, angry, not sleeping well, unable to focus, anxious, or have experienced a traumatic event or any other concerns then give me a call. Let us work together and identify the proper treatment options for optimal functioning.
![Photo of Danielle Koonce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa533dc1-2946-4736-afca-40c3682f852f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide both in-person and virtual appointments in Lubbock as a West Texas native. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with expertise in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and adults aged 4 and up. My specialties include autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic disorders, OCD, PTSD, binge-eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, perinatal psychiatry, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and managing weight gain related to psychiatric medication.
I provide both in-person and virtual appointments in Lubbock as a West Texas native. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with expertise in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and adults aged 4 and up. My specialties include autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic disorders, OCD, PTSD, binge-eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, perinatal psychiatry, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and managing weight gain related to psychiatric medication.
![Photo of Satang Ann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57d33650-e0ac-4619-86d9-333c1d44ff22/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Smink Achila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfc2c958-dcab-4e05-8bd0-bb51a4bcc2ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79401
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.
![Photo of Katie Brandon, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d33d8ec4-7896-4cfb-8b44-dfeeeef97e38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Brandon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79423
I offer appointments in Lubbock and share West Texas values. I am certified in primary psychiatry/mental health for patients 4 years and older. I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, Autism, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, panic, ADHD, addiction and more. I also provide unique, integrated treatment for patients focusing on metabolic health and inflammation alongside psychiatric treatment. I hold certification in Obesity Medicine and give serious consideration to the metabolic side effects associated with psychiatric medications.
I offer appointments in Lubbock and share West Texas values. I am certified in primary psychiatry/mental health for patients 4 years and older. I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, Autism, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, panic, ADHD, addiction and more. I also provide unique, integrated treatment for patients focusing on metabolic health and inflammation alongside psychiatric treatment. I hold certification in Obesity Medicine and give serious consideration to the metabolic side effects associated with psychiatric medications.
![Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28be5598-78ac-47fc-b40b-7295e16e16c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lubbock, TX 79401 (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
![Photo of Dr. Zoya Moghal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/beb1e4b7-5a57-426b-908f-0e4700a778d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Flexibility, easy scheduling and meaningful connections are the cornerstones of my private practice. Your appointments with me will be mindful of your needs, with ample time and attention provided to understanding your psychiatric symptoms and goals for treatment. We will work together to help you improve your mental health, using evidence based treatments (medications, therapy) and/or complementary approaches (diet and lifestyle) with the aim of sustained improvement that will positively impact your life, relationships and career.
Flexibility, easy scheduling and meaningful connections are the cornerstones of my private practice. Your appointments with me will be mindful of your needs, with ample time and attention provided to understanding your psychiatric symptoms and goals for treatment. We will work together to help you improve your mental health, using evidence based treatments (medications, therapy) and/or complementary approaches (diet and lifestyle) with the aim of sustained improvement that will positively impact your life, relationships and career.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43820e01-4af2-4664-b098-361a4e73ac3e/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 Olubunmi Oladosu - Zenith Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df659231-c295-4441-9a1a-f615191a2408/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zenith Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Midland, TX 79707 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Appointment within a week are available including AFTERNOONS, EVENINGS, WEEKDAYS AND WEEKENDS. At Zenith Psychiatry, we specialize in kids, Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health which involves addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs. We will work with you to individualize your treatment plan and treat you in a Safe, Caring and non-judgmental matter
![Photo of Olufunke Mercygrace Jinadu - Mercygrace Mental Wellness,PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aed3edd8-743b-4404-baba-22f40b435886/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mercygrace Mental Wellness,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Angelo, TX 76903 (Online Only)
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
![Photo of Ifeoma Irokwe - Effulgence Psychiatry, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aedc0bc3-c47f-4e43-aa20-ae0f1f09233b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Effulgence Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, TX 79701
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
![Photo of Ugochi Azubuike, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/500cd9d0-a5fd-47d0-806d-ad10c3c1ef73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugochi Azubuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lubbock, TX 79401 (Online Only)
Imagine dealing with life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Imagine dealing with life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Jacinta Madu, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/894cdc3e-66d2-49bd-907a-5c897fcb076e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am the lead board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), at GOFAN Healthcare Services LLC. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
I am the lead board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), at GOFAN Healthcare Services LLC. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
See more therapy options for Howard County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Howard County, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Howard County, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
100% | Alcohol Use |
67% | Relationship Issues |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
50% | BHS | Behavioral Health Systems |
How Psychiatrists in Howard County, TX see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Howard County?
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.