Psychiatrists in Lago Vista, TX
![Photo of Lynda Michele Parker - Dr Lynda Parker - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0080983b-d597-4e8b-a573-33dc51cbbd3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Lynda Parker - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lago Vista, TX 78645 (Online Only)
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
![Photo of Prasanna Sharma - Prasanna Sharma - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f493d99-9c41-4b4e-ba8c-c8a14e2a8934/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prasanna Sharma - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lago Vista, TX 78645
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.
Prasanna Sharma is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She graduated summa cum laude with a BSN from the University of Texas and went on to earn an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals to achieve optimal health & well-being & has experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, where she cared for patients with complex medical & mental health conditions.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Lauren Williams, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df78282-855c-4ec4-8094-e72daef5e59f/5/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
![Photo of Kelli Sue Thompson, MSN, APRN, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8dab73c-d6dd-4705-ac4c-9d47aa4de1cd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli Sue has joined Ellie Mental Health! NOW Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield! Currently, I accept Medicare, Aetna, Cigna, UHC and Sana. Ultimately, I believe integrative and holistic therapies are vital for our mental health. My goal will always be to meet you exactly where you are in your journey toward healing. I want to work in collaboration with you to help you live your BEST life. The bottom line is the moment people feel heard they start to heal.
Kelli Sue has joined Ellie Mental Health! NOW Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield! Currently, I accept Medicare, Aetna, Cigna, UHC and Sana. Ultimately, I believe integrative and holistic therapies are vital for our mental health. My goal will always be to meet you exactly where you are in your journey toward healing. I want to work in collaboration with you to help you live your BEST life. The bottom line is the moment people feel heard they start to heal.
![Photo of Ramon Aragon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e450bdb6-09ac-464c-8c59-8ee3b555faf3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Depression is a severely debilitating illness and while some patients improve with medications and psychotherapy, some patients do not. This can be due to medication adverse effects, difficulty adhering to the regimen, or a simple lack of efficacy from these agents. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
Depression is a severely debilitating illness and while some patients improve with medications and psychotherapy, some patients do not. This can be due to medication adverse effects, difficulty adhering to the regimen, or a simple lack of efficacy from these agents. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved and indicated therapy for these cases. TMS can also treat OCD, Anxiety, and aid in smoking cessation.
![Photo of Kyle Vincent, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a11f75e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kyle Vincent
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Unfortunately, I am no longer accepting new patients. I work with clients who are looking to find and grow their strengths and ability to handle the challenges in their lives. I am dedicated to improving the quality of lives by providing approachable, evidence-based, and compassionate psychiatric health care services. Our first priority is strengthening emotional and mental well-being for individuals of all ages and walks of life. We aim to support our patients and their families by providing cutting-edge medication and therapy treatments.
Unfortunately, I am no longer accepting new patients. I work with clients who are looking to find and grow their strengths and ability to handle the challenges in their lives. I am dedicated to improving the quality of lives by providing approachable, evidence-based, and compassionate psychiatric health care services. Our first priority is strengthening emotional and mental well-being for individuals of all ages and walks of life. We aim to support our patients and their families by providing cutting-edge medication and therapy treatments.
![Photo of Pauravi J. Rana, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfe23d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am most experienced with treating psychiatric concerns of a young adult population but I consult with and treat adults of all ages. I have broad experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and eating disorder. I enjoy educating clients who may be new to medication treatment and have reservations about it. I work best with clients who are looking to incorporate medication treatment with other therapeutic options such as psychotherapy, lifestyle change, exercise, and mindfulness-based approaches. Though I do not offer specific treatment for addictions, I address self-medication issues and substance abuse issues with all clients.
I am most experienced with treating psychiatric concerns of a young adult population but I consult with and treat adults of all ages. I have broad experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and eating disorder. I enjoy educating clients who may be new to medication treatment and have reservations about it. I work best with clients who are looking to incorporate medication treatment with other therapeutic options such as psychotherapy, lifestyle change, exercise, and mindfulness-based approaches. Though I do not offer specific treatment for addictions, I address self-medication issues and substance abuse issues with all clients.
![Photo of S. Brooke Taylor, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3907f13-d7ee-4445-a6cf-08f28fa9adfb/3/320x400.jpeg)
S. Brooke Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613 (Online Only)
Anxiety Sun, Depression Moon and Bipolar Rising. I am excited to meet you and start this new adventure. I have over 20 years of experience working as a women's health nurse practitioner and am now transitioning to mental health and wellness. I would say I specialize in women's health, moods and overall happiness, but I also have experience in working with men and the adolescent population, focusing on their specific mental health needs. Please email me and I can give you details on how to schedule an appointment. I am open to seeing new patients and plan to take many common insurance plans.
Anxiety Sun, Depression Moon and Bipolar Rising. I am excited to meet you and start this new adventure. I have over 20 years of experience working as a women's health nurse practitioner and am now transitioning to mental health and wellness. I would say I specialize in women's health, moods and overall happiness, but I also have experience in working with men and the adolescent population, focusing on their specific mental health needs. Please email me and I can give you details on how to schedule an appointment. I am open to seeing new patients and plan to take many common insurance plans.
![Photo of Lisa D'Amura, APRN, PMHNP, Dr Whit, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a82f25e-6989-4039-bee6-35f3b34a9845/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa D'Amura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, Dr Whit
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
Lisa D’Amura is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned both her Bachelors (2003) and Masters (2017) Degrees of Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin. She has experience working with a wide variety of patients in both in-patient and out-patient mental health. Before her move to psychiatric nursing Lisa was a Registered Nurse, Lactation Consultant and volunteer with a grassroots mental health organization-PSI.
Lisa D’Amura is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned both her Bachelors (2003) and Masters (2017) Degrees of Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin. She has experience working with a wide variety of patients in both in-patient and out-patient mental health. Before her move to psychiatric nursing Lisa was a Registered Nurse, Lactation Consultant and volunteer with a grassroots mental health organization-PSI.
![Photo of Elizabeth Gomez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc800f0d-a328-4dbb-895d-29db3ac247c4/1/320x400.png)
Elizabeth Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669 (Online Only)
Dealing with mental health can be tricky, but it’s not something you have to face alone. In my practice, we tackle these issues head-on with a mix of medication management and self-care strategies. It’s all about finding what works best for you, so you can focus more on enjoying life and less on the stress these conditions can bring. We’ll work together in a relaxed, supportive setting to discover effective ways to manage symptoms and boost your well-being. Let’s navigate this journey together, towards a life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.
Dealing with mental health can be tricky, but it’s not something you have to face alone. In my practice, we tackle these issues head-on with a mix of medication management and self-care strategies. It’s all about finding what works best for you, so you can focus more on enjoying life and less on the stress these conditions can bring. We’ll work together in a relaxed, supportive setting to discover effective ways to manage symptoms and boost your well-being. Let’s navigate this journey together, towards a life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.
![Photo of Amanda Dush - Amanda Anazia | Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15e3f842-c9c3-4751-b479-061ce7df3ff5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Anazia | Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
Amanda Anazia MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a certified family nurse practitioner. She graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in the inaugural class of 2012. Amanda obtained her MSN from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, where she specialized in Family in 2020. She also obtained a Post-Master’s Certificate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston where she specialized as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2021.
Amanda Anazia MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a certified family nurse practitioner. She graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in the inaugural class of 2012. Amanda obtained her MSN from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, where she specialized in Family in 2020. She also obtained a Post-Master’s Certificate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston where she specialized as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2021.
![Photo of Kelly Campbell, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b07412f-c61f-46b3-b177-933f21c79ac3/4/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in medication management for mental illness and psychotherapy. After medical school I completed five years in residency and fellowship training and a double board certification to give me psychiatric expertise in patients of all ages. I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in medication management for mental illness and psychotherapy. After medical school I completed five years in residency and fellowship training and a double board certification to give me psychiatric expertise in patients of all ages. I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.
![Photo of Mona Adamaszek, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bbd67ae-9a71-434d-bc5e-03e4a539c86a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mona Adamaszek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78641
You have to be your own best advocate, no one is going to do the work for you. It is my goal to meet you where you are and to start delivering comprehensive care from there. I engage in a client centered yet evidence based practice approach. I believe in helping and working beside you to create a treatment plan that empowers you to become the best version of yourself in the season you are in. My intention is to support your growth toward living a healthier more authentic and fulfilling life.
You have to be your own best advocate, no one is going to do the work for you. It is my goal to meet you where you are and to start delivering comprehensive care from there. I engage in a client centered yet evidence based practice approach. I believe in helping and working beside you to create a treatment plan that empowers you to become the best version of yourself in the season you are in. My intention is to support your growth toward living a healthier more authentic and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Carlos Tirado, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460b1995-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tirado is Board Certified in General and Addiction and Addiction Medicine. He is a recognized thought leader, innovator, mentor and clinical expert in addiction treatment and systems of care. Dr. Tirado spent the first half of his career in academia holding faculty appointments at University of Pennsylvania and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He subsequently has developed and implemented hospital, facility-based and outpatient addiction treatment services, outpatient chronic pain management and primary care for addiction programs. His consulting work concentrates on medication therapy and clinical trials, health plans, peer recovery support, expert witness and medical board review.
Dr. Tirado is Board Certified in General and Addiction and Addiction Medicine. He is a recognized thought leader, innovator, mentor and clinical expert in addiction treatment and systems of care. Dr. Tirado spent the first half of his career in academia holding faculty appointments at University of Pennsylvania and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He subsequently has developed and implemented hospital, facility-based and outpatient addiction treatment services, outpatient chronic pain management and primary care for addiction programs. His consulting work concentrates on medication therapy and clinical trials, health plans, peer recovery support, expert witness and medical board review.
![Photo of Isela Werchan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/461ca5b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Isela Werchan is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry. Dr. Werchan completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at El Paso. She received a medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She completed a general psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. She was Chief Resident and awarded the VA Outstanding Resident Award and the Van Dao Award. Her training experience includes the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic and obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as psychotic disorders.
Dr. Isela Werchan is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in general psychiatry. Dr. Werchan completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at El Paso. She received a medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She completed a general psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. She was Chief Resident and awarded the VA Outstanding Resident Award and the Van Dao Award. Her training experience includes the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic and obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Bret Bellard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4cb7b21-ca87-4d01-b012-9cd90a096db5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bret Bellard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78734 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 23 years of experience with mental health issues. I am certified in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine. I strive to treat all aspects of my patient's life, including exercise and nutrition in addition to counseling and medication. My goal is to empower patients to take the best care of themselves.
I have over 23 years of experience with mental health issues. I am certified in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine. I strive to treat all aspects of my patient's life, including exercise and nutrition in addition to counseling and medication. My goal is to empower patients to take the best care of themselves.
![Photo of Stefani Reinold, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9395ded1-39ca-4230-98dc-aae0decb6399/1/320x400.jpeg)
Has traditional psychiatry failed you? Want a holistic, personalized approach to mental health? I'm accepting new patients- in person or virtual! Schedule at: www.wholeheartedpsychiatry.com I'm a board certified psychiatrist who treats adolescents and adults 10 yo+. We provide a unique integrative, holistic approach to your mental health offering a comprehensive evaluation. We work collaboratively with patients to develop the most personalized treatment plan, including a balanced approach between medication management, supplement protocols, genetic and lab testing, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Has traditional psychiatry failed you? Want a holistic, personalized approach to mental health? I'm accepting new patients- in person or virtual! Schedule at: www.wholeheartedpsychiatry.com I'm a board certified psychiatrist who treats adolescents and adults 10 yo+. We provide a unique integrative, holistic approach to your mental health offering a comprehensive evaluation. We work collaboratively with patients to develop the most personalized treatment plan, including a balanced approach between medication management, supplement protocols, genetic and lab testing, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Brent Turnipseed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/103e2efa-7e77-4c5b-9dde-4b6e209717fe/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Roots Behavioral Health, access to care and affordability of care are our touchstone values. I co-founded Roots with the goal of honoring these values in our community. By using a model of working with physician assistants, we are able to help more people in need. And to make care more affordable, our clinics accept most forms of commercial health insurance. As our Medical Director, I'm continually striving to elevate our standard of care.
At Roots Behavioral Health, access to care and affordability of care are our touchstone values. I co-founded Roots with the goal of honoring these values in our community. By using a model of working with physician assistants, we are able to help more people in need. And to make care more affordable, our clinics accept most forms of commercial health insurance. As our Medical Director, I'm continually striving to elevate our standard of care.
![Photo of Timothy D. Sheehan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f9e0c31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal as a psychiatrist is to provide education and tools to deal with issues that will inevitably arise. I encourage clients to participate in mindfulness exercises as awareness is the first step in understanding our patterns of behavior and coping strategies. Ultimately, individuals come to see me when these coping strategies have broken down. Both medication and therapy can be beneficial as one attempts to change their style of thinking and realize options. I believe that hope is lost when one feels a profound lack of options. For example, this is very common with depression as individuals thinking shades to the negative.
My goal as a psychiatrist is to provide education and tools to deal with issues that will inevitably arise. I encourage clients to participate in mindfulness exercises as awareness is the first step in understanding our patterns of behavior and coping strategies. Ultimately, individuals come to see me when these coping strategies have broken down. Both medication and therapy can be beneficial as one attempts to change their style of thinking and realize options. I believe that hope is lost when one feels a profound lack of options. For example, this is very common with depression as individuals thinking shades to the negative.
![Photo of Oluremi Cole, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/930a7294-e665-45ee-8604-47481d8cd626/1/320x400.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.
See more therapy options for Lago Vista
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lago Vista, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lago Vista, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lago Vista, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lago Vista?
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.