Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX

Photo of Arun A Andrews, MD, Psychiatrist
Arun A Andrews
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Manvel, TX 77578
I am a physician specialized in providing psychiatric care to children,adolescents,teens and adults. Through my practice I address a wide range of mental heath issues, including Depression,Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety Disorders.
I am a physician specialized in providing psychiatric care to children,adolescents,teens and adults. Through my practice I address a wide range of mental heath issues, including Depression,Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety Disorders.
(281) 915-0442 View (281) 915-0442
Photo of Sherry Young, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherry Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manvel, TX 77578
You do not need to feel ashamed when you are mentally ill. Mental health is connected to various aspects of a person's life, including physical health, relationships, work, and more. Do not hesitate to see a psychiatric specialist when you need help. Let's work it out together.
You do not need to feel ashamed when you are mentally ill. Mental health is connected to various aspects of a person's life, including physical health, relationships, work, and more. Do not hesitate to see a psychiatric specialist when you need help. Let's work it out together.
(832) 979-5278 View (832) 979-5278

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Felicitas Okwara - Inclusive Psychiatry LLC, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inclusive Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, Schizophrenia etc. seeking stability and improved quality of life. They need a holistic treatment plan, including medication management and therapy. Their goal is to regain daily functionality and emotional balance. They want tailored, empathetic care to understand and manage their mental health. They seek this to achieve personal and professional success and well-being.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, Schizophrenia etc. seeking stability and improved quality of life. They need a holistic treatment plan, including medication management and therapy. Their goal is to regain daily functionality and emotional balance. They want tailored, empathetic care to understand and manage their mental health. They seek this to achieve personal and professional success and well-being.
(346) 480-6437 View (346) 480-6437
Photo of Salah Qureshi - Texas Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Texas Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
(832) 937-7586 View (832) 937-7586
Photo of Idalia Viard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Idalia Viard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Life can be incredibly challenging. Sometimes we need a little extra help finding our way back to ourselves. It is my life's passion to offer warm and compassionate guidance to clients seeking support for mental health and psychiatric needs. My approach is rooted in person-centered care by deeply understanding each person's unique experiences. I am committed to treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being, not just their symptoms. If you’re struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, or OCD reach out today to see if you could benefit from a clinician that offers both medication and therapy.
Life can be incredibly challenging. Sometimes we need a little extra help finding our way back to ourselves. It is my life's passion to offer warm and compassionate guidance to clients seeking support for mental health and psychiatric needs. My approach is rooted in person-centered care by deeply understanding each person's unique experiences. I am committed to treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being, not just their symptoms. If you’re struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, or OCD reach out today to see if you could benefit from a clinician that offers both medication and therapy.
(936) 549-0676 View (936) 549-0676
Photo of Faith Ogala - Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS), MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
Now accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send us email directly through our website: www.mbspsych.org.
Now accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send us email directly through our website: www.mbspsych.org.
(214) 225-6020 View (214) 225-6020
Photo of Christine Chioma - Chi Med Psych PLLC, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chi Med Psych PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rosharon, TX 77583
I am Christine Chioma, an APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and have over 20years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a passion for helping people cut ties with mental illness and gain health and wellness through a holistic approach of care. This means identifying the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual components of my clients’ suffering. Also, I am an empathic listener.
I am Christine Chioma, an APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and have over 20years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a passion for helping people cut ties with mental illness and gain health and wellness through a holistic approach of care. This means identifying the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual components of my clients’ suffering. Also, I am an empathic listener.
(281) 247-5885 View (281) 247-5885
Photo of Onyinyechi Nwakanma, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Onyinyechi Nwakanma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.
Navigating through feelings of no motivation, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming. It's tough, but you're not alone. Let's work together to understand your struggles and find strategies to cope and thrive. Your journey to healing starts with taking the first step.
(832) 789-3182 View (832) 789-3182
Photo of Taiwo Elemuren - Livewell Mental Health , PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Livewell Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581  (Online Only)
Taiwo Elemuren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner since 2015 and has extensive knowledge, and experience, in psychiatry. She provides patient-centered psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Her goal is to continually provide unbiased and all-inclusive care to individuals regardless of race, gender, and sexual orientation.
Taiwo Elemuren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner since 2015 and has extensive knowledge, and experience, in psychiatry. She provides patient-centered psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Her goal is to continually provide unbiased and all-inclusive care to individuals regardless of race, gender, and sexual orientation.
(281) 317-8310 View (281) 317-8310
Photo of Kimberly Wingard, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Wingard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Are you feeling overwhelmed by symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or ADD/ADHD? Maybe you're struggling with substance use issues and searching for a way to regain control of your life. I know how challenging this journey can be, and I'm here to offer you the compassionate support you deserve. At Vitality Wellness Clinic, I provide a custom approach to each client, along with continuous support, effective treatment plans, and a safe space for you to share your journey. My goal is to help you feel better, achieve emotional stability, and reclaim your joy and purpose in life!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or ADD/ADHD? Maybe you're struggling with substance use issues and searching for a way to regain control of your life. I know how challenging this journey can be, and I'm here to offer you the compassionate support you deserve. At Vitality Wellness Clinic, I provide a custom approach to each client, along with continuous support, effective treatment plans, and a safe space for you to share your journey. My goal is to help you feel better, achieve emotional stability, and reclaim your joy and purpose in life!
(832) 981-1113 View (832) 981-1113
Photo of Michael Caltzontzint, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Caltzontzint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584
Hello, my name is Mike Caltzontzint and I am a licensed board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My interest in mental health began after serving 5 years in the United States Marine Corps from 2004-2009. I began to understand the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on military veterans as well as many Americans in the general population. This led me to pursue a career in nursing. I graduated from The University of Texas in Austin with my bachelors degree and later returned to complete my masters degree at UT Health Science Center in Houston.
Hello, my name is Mike Caltzontzint and I am a licensed board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My interest in mental health began after serving 5 years in the United States Marine Corps from 2004-2009. I began to understand the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on military veterans as well as many Americans in the general population. This led me to pursue a career in nursing. I graduated from The University of Texas in Austin with my bachelors degree and later returned to complete my masters degree at UT Health Science Center in Houston.
(832) 905-1324 View (832) 905-1324
Photo of Feilcitas Okwara, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Feilcitas Okwara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
(346) 476-4579 View (346) 476-4579
Photo of Kelly Martinez, MSN,  APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING ONLINE NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENTS!!! Every person has a story and it is my goal to help you achieve a better you. I believe my compassion and empathy shines through in my practice. I believe in equal participation from both myself and my clients. Every patient should have a voice in their treatment plan. I will work with you to come up with a treatment that not only helps you but makes you feel comfortable with it as well. My scope of practice includes the promotion of mental health along with the diagnosis and management of behavioral matters.
ACCEPTING ONLINE NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENTS!!! Every person has a story and it is my goal to help you achieve a better you. I believe my compassion and empathy shines through in my practice. I believe in equal participation from both myself and my clients. Every patient should have a voice in their treatment plan. I will work with you to come up with a treatment that not only helps you but makes you feel comfortable with it as well. My scope of practice includes the promotion of mental health along with the diagnosis and management of behavioral matters.
(281) 886-7303 View (281) 886-7303
Photo of Caroline Lam, MD, Psychiatrist
Caroline Lam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
(281) 937-8209 View (281) 937-8209
Photo of Stephanie Cn Obame, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Cn Obame
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
My name is Stephanie Obame, a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, qualified in treating patients with psychiatric diagnoses across life span. I have over seven years of experience in healthcare in different settings such as acute care, nursing homes, correctional institutions, and outpatient settings.
My name is Stephanie Obame, a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, qualified in treating patients with psychiatric diagnoses across life span. I have over seven years of experience in healthcare in different settings such as acute care, nursing homes, correctional institutions, and outpatient settings.
(281) 393-4423 View (281) 393-4423
Photo of Christine Chioma, NP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Chioma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Christine Chioma, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and I have over 18 years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults.
Hello, My name is Christine Chioma, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and I have over 18 years of experience in psychiatry. I work with children, adolescents, and adults.
(512) 768-9738 View (512) 768-9738
Photo of Miranda Sanchez, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Miranda Sanchez
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Alvin, TX 77511
Ms. Sanchez provides culturally sensitive and evidence-based care to all of her patients. She is a dedicated, compassionate provider who takes pride in caring for her patients. She treats a wide variety of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, &schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Ms. Sanchez provides culturally sensitive and evidence-based care to all of her patients. She is a dedicated, compassionate provider who takes pride in caring for her patients. She treats a wide variety of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, &schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
(832) 793-8766 View (832) 793-8766
Photo of Ayesha Rashid, MD, Psychiatrist
Ayesha Rashid
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Dr. Ayesha Rashid, MD is a licensed Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She received her training in Adult Psychiatry at State University of New York, Upstate University Hospital at Syracuse, NY where she went on to complete her fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She worked in the capacity of Attending Physician, Psychiatry at Syracuse Veterans Hospital before moving to Houston.
Dr. Ayesha Rashid, MD is a licensed Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She received her training in Adult Psychiatry at State University of New York, Upstate University Hospital at Syracuse, NY where she went on to complete her fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She worked in the capacity of Attending Physician, Psychiatry at Syracuse Veterans Hospital before moving to Houston.
(281) 335-4000 View (281) 335-4000
Photo of Michael Millstone - Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Michael Millstone - Brain and Behavior, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
I know your time is valuable. Initial consultative evaluation appointments are available for scheduling WITHIN 1-2 WEEKS, unless I am not accepting new patients at that time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. Initial consultative evaluation appointments are available for scheduling WITHIN 1-2 WEEKS, unless I am not accepting new patients at that time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
(832) 990-0327 View (832) 990-0327
Photo of Nelly Okere, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nelly Okere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alvin, TX 77511
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
(346) 207-1164 View (346) 207-1164

See more therapy options for Manvel

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX

< 10

Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Emotional Disturbance
100% Self Esteem
50% Addiction
50% Child

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Manvel, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manvel?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.