Psychiatrists in Junction, TX
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Texas below.Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Oluremi Cole, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3cd7ead-29b0-4680-b232-dd059fd9e6ad/1/320x400.png)
I am Oluremi Cole, a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I have a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. I work with adults, and older adults. I am experienced in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions.
I am Oluremi Cole, a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I have a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. I work with adults, and older adults. I am experienced in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions.
Eva Kirara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78254 (Online Only)
Life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, understanding approach to their mental health. They want to feel heard, supported, and equipped with tools to improve their well-being. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you regain control, find balance, and work toward a more fulfilling, healthier life. You deserve a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to face life’s challenges with confidence.
Life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma, can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, understanding approach to their mental health. They want to feel heard, supported, and equipped with tools to improve their well-being. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you regain control, find balance, and work toward a more fulfilling, healthier life. You deserve a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to face life’s challenges with confidence.
![Photo of Phillip Balfanz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438a6fa3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with experience in helping family members of all ages when illness interferes with a person's mental health. I believe in the process of recovery and the power of hope in working toward a healthier life.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with experience in helping family members of all ages when illness interferes with a person's mental health. I believe in the process of recovery and the power of hope in working toward a healthier life.
![Photo of Britanni O Greene, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acfa91eb-1d08-4489-9491-10fbf5e658b6/1/320x400.png)
Britanni O Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in holistic, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy, I am deeply committed to providing a personalized and empowering approach to mental health care. My practice is founded on the belief that true healing encompasses not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, which is why I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to explore their emotions and experiences. My approach is centered around fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and collaboration.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in holistic, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy, I am deeply committed to providing a personalized and empowering approach to mental health care. My practice is founded on the belief that true healing encompasses not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, which is why I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to explore their emotions and experiences. My approach is centered around fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and collaboration.
![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
San Antonio, TX 78229 (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 Clarissa Chaisson-McRae, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a47e5fd6-e366-41d8-a0bf-f5047d30c360/1/320x400.png)
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
![Photo of Ijeoma Ononenyi, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cea3511b-78b8-42a2-9aae-730b66b11028/2/320x400.png)
Ijeoma Ononenyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
![Photo of Yejide Oludare - Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0afc9fff-dda4-44f6-93a4-ed9fed5c9faf/4/320x400.jpeg)
Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253 (Online Only)
One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. My name is Yejide Oludare, Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently providing telemedicine appointment to Texas resident., takes pride in providing compassionate, and evidence based care for clients. I specialize in treating various mood disorders not limited to Adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, , OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Substance Use Disorder, and postpartum depression.
One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. My name is Yejide Oludare, Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently providing telemedicine appointment to Texas resident., takes pride in providing compassionate, and evidence based care for clients. I specialize in treating various mood disorders not limited to Adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, , OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Substance Use Disorder, and postpartum depression.
![Photo of Bernadette Murorunkwere, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a1aea3c-7f42-457f-87f8-0afbccb1c94a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bernadette Murorunkwere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Bernadette is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner across the life span who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Bernadette is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner across the life span who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
![Photo of Thomas Anthony Dietz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a12559ae-9cd7-4072-84b0-ed9c71033354/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas Anthony Dietz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78245 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a whole mind and body approach for enhancing their overall wellness. I don't want to simply medicate symptoms, but rather work with my clients to discover the root cause for the way they feel. I want my clients to not only feel better, but to be better.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a whole mind and body approach for enhancing their overall wellness. I don't want to simply medicate symptoms, but rather work with my clients to discover the root cause for the way they feel. I want my clients to not only feel better, but to be better.
![Photo of Caroline Horton, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72cd834f-401b-4b62-b1c2-952ce81ae3c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline is a Physician Assistant, nationally certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She received a Master in Physician Assistant Studies at James Madison University in Virginia and is licensed to practice in the state of TX by the Texas Medical Board. She has experience in Emergency Medicine and the care of adults and children with acute and chronic mental health disorders in the ER setting. She is committed to helping provide mental health services to the people of San Antonio and surrounding communities that allows more people to access the care they need in an outpatient setting.
Caroline is a Physician Assistant, nationally certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She received a Master in Physician Assistant Studies at James Madison University in Virginia and is licensed to practice in the state of TX by the Texas Medical Board. She has experience in Emergency Medicine and the care of adults and children with acute and chronic mental health disorders in the ER setting. She is committed to helping provide mental health services to the people of San Antonio and surrounding communities that allows more people to access the care they need in an outpatient setting.
![Photo of Nkechi Nduka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91a0d0fc-2e8f-4d1c-8037-e15dc34bd913/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56be311f-2d77-489a-8d7f-0c48da5aa81e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78245 (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 Anton Fisher - ★★TeleMind®★★, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a354c67-9dfb-44f4-acc9-8e60a29999ff/1/320x400.png)
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
![Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/096afa30-c1d0-4451-bc19-df552ab4033a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78245
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Wardell Brian Hollis - Mental Health Horizons, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c35511d0-232e-4540-bc9a-a07f68c3b230/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Health Horizons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78254 (Online Only)
My ideal client is an adult or geriatric client with a major mental health issue or diagnosis.
My ideal client is an adult or geriatric client with a major mental health issue or diagnosis.
![Photo of Dr. Daniel Daylamani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77982014-e267-46eb-95a5-1c8df8370b62/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
Doctor Ronald Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
![Photo of Rose Garcia, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcf7c6ea-e1d3-4a65-b59f-991f6ab2c124/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hola! Si entiendo Espanol. Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. My name is Roseann Garcia, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to help stop mental health stigma, collaborate with you and your family, and support you every step of the way.
Hola! Si entiendo Espanol. Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. My name is Roseann Garcia, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to help stop mental health stigma, collaborate with you and your family, and support you every step of the way.
![Photo of Dr. David Mauro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7129c56-d561-4d6f-b260-03a205fa124e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. David Mauro is accepting new patients. I am a board-certified physician who specializes in evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders in adults. I am able to connect with patients, incorporating biopsychosocial model into understanding people and meeting them where they are.
Dr. David Mauro is accepting new patients. I am a board-certified physician who specializes in evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders in adults. I am able to connect with patients, incorporating biopsychosocial model into understanding people and meeting them where they are.
See more therapy options for Junction
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Junction, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Junction, TX who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Junction, TX see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Junction?
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.