Psychiatrists in Kaufman, TX
![Photo of Lauren K Hughes - Premier Mental Health & Wellness, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c1b1d3d-b9e4-404b-a06e-98f969244fef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Premier Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142
Accepting new clients for psychiatric medication management, both online and in person! While medications can certainly be helpful, I also like to emphasize nutrition and wellness to promote optimal mental health. Many of my clients struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mood disorders. I use a whole person approach to see what interventions in order to individualize their care.
Accepting new clients for psychiatric medication management, both online and in person! While medications can certainly be helpful, I also like to emphasize nutrition and wellness to promote optimal mental health. Many of my clients struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mood disorders. I use a whole person approach to see what interventions in order to individualize their care.
![Photo of Dr. Micah Duke, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2e74a49-3ad2-48ea-9294-a66eab27c8f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Micah Duke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142 (Online Only)
Micah is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming. Micah specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addiction for all age groups.
Micah is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming. Micah specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addiction for all age groups.
![Photo of Dorothy Ndondi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae220b7d-f73f-4bda-8752-020805b1199f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dorothy Ndondi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients now, same day appointments with weekend availability. We provide Telehealth services, accept self pay and insurances. Welcome to a non-judgmental environment where there is no biasness ! Meet Dorothy PMHNP-BC ( over 14 years experience in health care) who strives to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that considers their mental and emotional well-being. I'm dedicated and focused on providing you with high-quality initial evaluations, diagnosing, formulating treatment plan and continued medication management. My focus is on pre- teens, teens and adults.
Accepting new clients now, same day appointments with weekend availability. We provide Telehealth services, accept self pay and insurances. Welcome to a non-judgmental environment where there is no biasness ! Meet Dorothy PMHNP-BC ( over 14 years experience in health care) who strives to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that considers their mental and emotional well-being. I'm dedicated and focused on providing you with high-quality initial evaluations, diagnosing, formulating treatment plan and continued medication management. My focus is on pre- teens, teens and adults.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Ruben Mendez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab8ac78e-776b-4d87-ba46-28287ebcc6e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mendez obtained his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He subsequently completed his Psychiatry residency training at the same institution, UT Medical School in Houston. Dr. Mendez has extensive training in the field and is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After professional training Dr. Mendez has had vast experience of 15 years primarily in the outpatient setting including ample experience with telemedicine services to patients.
Dr. Mendez obtained his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He subsequently completed his Psychiatry residency training at the same institution, UT Medical School in Houston. Dr. Mendez has extensive training in the field and is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After professional training Dr. Mendez has had vast experience of 15 years primarily in the outpatient setting including ample experience with telemedicine services to patients.
![Photo of Edwige Tonye, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39b9e9d2-79a7-400e-ae9b-4d1c3d61709b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edwige Tonye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75035 (Online Only)
As a board- certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate mental health care to patients dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/ addiction, mood/personality disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and many more. I possess strong clinical skills and have the ability to build strong connections with patients and families. My goal is to provide an optimum level of care to all my patients by promoting mental well-being. I believe the use of psychotherapy, medication, patient’s active participation in the care, is the key for the treatment of mental health disorders.
As a board- certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate mental health care to patients dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/ addiction, mood/personality disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and many more. I possess strong clinical skills and have the ability to build strong connections with patients and families. My goal is to provide an optimum level of care to all my patients by promoting mental well-being. I believe the use of psychotherapy, medication, patient’s active participation in the care, is the key for the treatment of mental health disorders.
![Photo of Preston Wiles, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ee5d43d-4ae9-4b92-835b-518b85759997/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He now runs the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He was recently named Assistant Dean for Student and Resident Mental Health and Wellness at UT Southwestern. He is a qualified mindfulness teacher through Jon Kabat Zinn's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program at UMass Medical Cntr
Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He now runs the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He was recently named Assistant Dean for Student and Resident Mental Health and Wellness at UT Southwestern. He is a qualified mindfulness teacher through Jon Kabat Zinn's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program at UMass Medical Cntr
![Photo of Shalice McKnight - Dr. McKnight | The Lighthouse of Frisco, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1836a20c-74df-4f02-84e0-5976369af0a8/1/320x400.png)
The Lighthouse of Frisco, one of North Texas' premiere Pediatric Mental Health practices, is dedicated to helping families and youth (5-19yrs) navigate their mental health challenges, avert crisis, cultivate identify, and to live with legacy in mind. We are obsessed with breaking down barriers to care through the education of families, children, and their communities to position future generations for mental health wellness and success.
The Lighthouse of Frisco, one of North Texas' premiere Pediatric Mental Health practices, is dedicated to helping families and youth (5-19yrs) navigate their mental health challenges, avert crisis, cultivate identify, and to live with legacy in mind. We are obsessed with breaking down barriers to care through the education of families, children, and their communities to position future generations for mental health wellness and success.
![Photo of Sheila Trish Morgan-Freeman, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/304fbf4c-6267-4454-a221-8b62c8eca70d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Trish Morgan-Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76133 (Online Only)
The most important thing is your mental health. I am here to help you through your struggles. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools they need to improve their mental health. I look forward to providing you with exceptional care and the best individualized treatment plan after a thorough evaluation.
The most important thing is your mental health. I am here to help you through your struggles. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools they need to improve their mental health. I look forward to providing you with exceptional care and the best individualized treatment plan after a thorough evaluation.
![Photo of Althea Granger - Chronicle Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eddfca9c-e3b2-4782-b4af-08555792337c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chronicle Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
At Chronicle Psychiatry, we work with clients of all ages and enjoy helping individuals with their mental health needs. We strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health. We have over two decades of experience. We offer on-site and virtual sessions. Now seeing clients Virtually in Texas, New York, Kentucky, and Ohio ...
At Chronicle Psychiatry, we work with clients of all ages and enjoy helping individuals with their mental health needs. We strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health. We have over two decades of experience. We offer on-site and virtual sessions. Now seeing clients Virtually in Texas, New York, Kentucky, and Ohio ...
![Photo of Beverly Alomepe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ba9ffa0-e8a0-4946-99ed-983bac411fc8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Alomepe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75022 (Online Only)
Sometimes just getting through the day can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. I offer deep healing that gets to the root of your mental health problems, so you can feel more like yourself and reclaim your joy. Perhaps you have tried numerous different doctors and medications with no luck? To help you feel your best, I begin by learning your story, beliefs, nutrition, and lifestyle. This is to create a comprehensive and holistic treatment plan that can include: ketamine-assisted therapy, nutraceuticals, supplements, medication, and non-medication approaches to help realize the inner power of who you really are.
Sometimes just getting through the day can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. I offer deep healing that gets to the root of your mental health problems, so you can feel more like yourself and reclaim your joy. Perhaps you have tried numerous different doctors and medications with no luck? To help you feel your best, I begin by learning your story, beliefs, nutrition, and lifestyle. This is to create a comprehensive and holistic treatment plan that can include: ketamine-assisted therapy, nutraceuticals, supplements, medication, and non-medication approaches to help realize the inner power of who you really are.
![Photo of Lillian Cole, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a340f2d3-64a6-4160-9954-82280867de71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lillian Cole is an adult psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She earned both her master’s in biomedical sciences and medical degree at Texas Tech University. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she was exposed to patient populations that were ethnoculturally, socioeconomically, and clinically diverse.
Dr. Lillian Cole is an adult psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She earned both her master’s in biomedical sciences and medical degree at Texas Tech University. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she was exposed to patient populations that were ethnoculturally, socioeconomically, and clinically diverse.
![Photo of Jelilat Buhari, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36d96c0d-1781-4195-bf3f-d718d82d2f81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jelilat Buhari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Jelilat. Are you struggling with Depression , anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, Addictions, ADHD and other life changing challenges the world throws at you? Do you feel like the world is crumbling down on you, and you don't know what else to do? Look no further. I am here to give you listening ears . Let's tackle these problems together. You don't have to journey alone .
Hi there, I'm Jelilat. Are you struggling with Depression , anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, Addictions, ADHD and other life changing challenges the world throws at you? Do you feel like the world is crumbling down on you, and you don't know what else to do? Look no further. I am here to give you listening ears . Let's tackle these problems together. You don't have to journey alone .
![Photo of Olayinka Daramola - Pleasant Care Behavioral Health, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3a550a3-1214-4fe5-96ff-7ebd5d1d5f81/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pleasant Care Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012
Pleasant Care BHC provides outpatient psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, consultation, medication management, and brief focused therapy services. We are open Monday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday 9 am to 2 pm. The goal of our practice is to deliver competent and ethical care in the area of mental health. If you are looking for individuals who you can freely talk to without the fear of being subjected to prejudice, we are here for you. If you find that your challenges are creating an impact on your personal health and everyday functioning, we are here to guide you in understanding the nature of your issues.
Pleasant Care BHC provides outpatient psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, consultation, medication management, and brief focused therapy services. We are open Monday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday 9 am to 2 pm. The goal of our practice is to deliver competent and ethical care in the area of mental health. If you are looking for individuals who you can freely talk to without the fear of being subjected to prejudice, we are here for you. If you find that your challenges are creating an impact on your personal health and everyday functioning, we are here to guide you in understanding the nature of your issues.
![Photo of Matthew Hamilton, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f5605c7-bc67-4361-b54e-6682724c39ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew Hamilton is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist who is establishing his post-residency practice with Talkiatry. Dr. Hamilton’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Hamilton may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Matthew Hamilton is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist who is establishing his post-residency practice with Talkiatry. Dr. Hamilton’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Hamilton may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Stanley Okeyemi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15639cf8-5f1b-4d22-9a5e-cd656f83ebb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stanley Okeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063 (Online Only)
By my actions, I will define the standards of excellence and dedication to the health and safety of clients entrusted to my care. My goal is to utilize my knowledge, competencies, and advanced skills towards helping patients achieve a good quality life, health and well-being, while also continuing to advocate ‘for,’ and empower clients with mental illnesses. With regards to my self-assessment, I rate myself as a competent practitioner that continually strives hard to deliver quality care that is based on evidence, which assures optimum patients wellness, while also protecting my practice.
By my actions, I will define the standards of excellence and dedication to the health and safety of clients entrusted to my care. My goal is to utilize my knowledge, competencies, and advanced skills towards helping patients achieve a good quality life, health and well-being, while also continuing to advocate ‘for,’ and empower clients with mental illnesses. With regards to my self-assessment, I rate myself as a competent practitioner that continually strives hard to deliver quality care that is based on evidence, which assures optimum patients wellness, while also protecting my practice.
![Photo of Shadi Lavasani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ce04eeb-34af-4d6c-8864-6a24ab516500/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lavasani is a double board-certified Psychiatrist, specializing in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine and went on to complete both her residency in psychiatry and fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry at Baylor Scott & White medical center in Temple, Texas. She has experience in treating patients with diverse backgrounds and a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depressive and anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, intellectual disability, autism spectrum, attachment and other mood disorders.
Dr. Lavasani is a double board-certified Psychiatrist, specializing in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine and went on to complete both her residency in psychiatry and fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry at Baylor Scott & White medical center in Temple, Texas. She has experience in treating patients with diverse backgrounds and a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depressive and anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, intellectual disability, autism spectrum, attachment and other mood disorders.
![Photo of Olubunmi Oladosu, PMHNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/842cc9a8-d22f-4e46-86b7-30e50f617050/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olubunmi Oladosu
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Richland Hills, TX 76180 (Online Only)
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
![Photo of Satang Ann, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd04dfd-38a6-4cf1-9505-b6c6e44569ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Satang Ann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, TX 76065 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. Currently in-network with BCBS, 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. Currently in-network with BCBS, 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 Ndubuisi Odegai - The Healed Mind Psychiatry , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/049fdd7c-a0eb-4ee6-91d1-2a58d968cb7e/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Healed Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aubrey, TX 76227
Alvin Ndubuisi is a board certified psychiatric mental health NP. He has been in practice for over 5 years. He takes patient care, views, and opinions regarding their mental health management very seriously. His practice is evidenced- based, and using holistic approach, comes up with the best treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to the patient.
Alvin Ndubuisi is a board certified psychiatric mental health NP. He has been in practice for over 5 years. He takes patient care, views, and opinions regarding their mental health management very seriously. His practice is evidenced- based, and using holistic approach, comes up with the best treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to the patient.
![Photo of Jolyn Allen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0b8a1a1-617f-4278-9dcf-674083b245bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jolyn Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75033
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
See more therapy options for Kaufman
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kaufman, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kaufman, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Addiction |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Other |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
67% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Kaufman, TX see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kaufman?
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.