Psychiatrists in Sunset Valley, TX
![Photo of Cynthia Benton, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/008398b9-a5c0-4837-8861-c78f28a98877/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.
Accepting New Patients. Cynthia Benton, M.D. provides psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy services for adult patients in her private practice in Austin, Texas. She completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and completed her residency in psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at both the University of California at San Francisco and at the Austin Medical Education Programs.
![Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab84bd42-288d-444f-b2df-2f52c241594a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735 (Online Only)
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Anabel Winiecki, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cedb2ce-32ad-45d7-ba0a-b606d8ed4175/1/320x400.png)
Anabel Winiecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78749 (Online Only)
I am Anabel Winiecki, and I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained to treat behavioral and mental health across the lifespan. I graduated with my master's in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. My past experiences in education and work have equipped me to work well with diverse populations, be culturally competent, and have a wide array of training across specialties. With specialties in the areas of addiction, abuse, trauma, as well as general mental and behavioral health, we will work together to help meet your individualized needs.
I am Anabel Winiecki, and I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained to treat behavioral and mental health across the lifespan. I graduated with my master's in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. My past experiences in education and work have equipped me to work well with diverse populations, be culturally competent, and have a wide array of training across specialties. With specialties in the areas of addiction, abuse, trauma, as well as general mental and behavioral health, we will work together to help meet your individualized needs.
![Photo of April Parker - EZ Mind Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/098ec350-662f-40df-b8fc-baf432d99d8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
EZ Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745 (Online Only)
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
![Photo of Qazi Javed - Integrative Psychiatry-Austin, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7b0fca2-841a-4e7d-8942-b77e7a8176d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of us realize that our mind is something that we want to treat with the most care, compassion and love. We have found that entrusting its health to the limitations of a narrow focus of healthcare can be less than optimal. We recognize the need of every human being to be seen and heard. People usually consult us because of our unique assessment and treatment philosophy. We provide care for the individual as well as the family. We provide care for children, adolescents and also adults. People appreciate our collaborative model of care. They also appreciate our striving for spiritual growth in ourselves and other people.
Many of us realize that our mind is something that we want to treat with the most care, compassion and love. We have found that entrusting its health to the limitations of a narrow focus of healthcare can be less than optimal. We recognize the need of every human being to be seen and heard. People usually consult us because of our unique assessment and treatment philosophy. We provide care for the individual as well as the family. We provide care for children, adolescents and also adults. People appreciate our collaborative model of care. They also appreciate our striving for spiritual growth in ourselves and other people.
![Photo of May (Meiling) Wang - May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9db6dc4f-5c7f-4f2e-8eba-07f46447d31b/2/320x400.jpeg)
May (Meiling) Wang - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
May Wang is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, she obtained her Master’s in nursing with honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. May has several years of mental health experience working with a variety of patients in different settings. Her clinical background includes delivering psychiatric services to underserved communities in the state institution, children and adolescents with behavioral and neurobehavioral diagnoses and adults with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
![Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fdcd2d3-e68a-4558-8ab4-5d379fa0adac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
![Photo of Zaw Win, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04eb79ea-556b-49f2-abaf-f0ec6281f04f/2/320x400.png)
Zaw Win, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Win was elected by the Membership Committee and the Board of Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association to be a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA) in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. Dr. Win completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1998.
Zaw Win, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Win was elected by the Membership Committee and the Board of Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association to be a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA) in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. Dr. Win completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1998.
![Photo of Christine Masuda - Chris Masuda MD/Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc38daab-ff5e-4338-aa55-30e35a395641/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Christine Masuda is the psychiatric medical director of the Austin location of Sigma. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited in person services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
Dr. Christine Masuda is the psychiatric medical director of the Austin location of Sigma. Sigma Mental Health Urgent Care takes same day appointments and is open 7 days a week except major holidays. Our Austin location has limited in person services and we request that you call to schedule in Austin. We treat people during gaps in care, while they are waiting to get an appointment in the community, and we can continue treatment long-term when our clinic is the best fit for an individual's needs.
![Photo of Lin Cai, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97f7bfdf-ed20-4e22-9167-9ca91dba9e49/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified advanced nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2015. I provide Psychiatric Evaluation and medication management services both in person and through Tele-medicine to ages 14 and older. I devote my time, attention, and work collaboratively with each individual to customized the goals, interventions, and to optimize care plans. I believe in integrated mental health and physical well beings. I am currently accepting new patient. WE DO SPRAVATO TREATMENT AT OUR CLINIC.
I am a board-certified advanced nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine since 2015. I provide Psychiatric Evaluation and medication management services both in person and through Tele-medicine to ages 14 and older. I devote my time, attention, and work collaboratively with each individual to customized the goals, interventions, and to optimize care plans. I believe in integrated mental health and physical well beings. I am currently accepting new patient. WE DO SPRAVATO TREATMENT AT OUR CLINIC.
![Photo of Lisa J Beisel - Dr. Beisel Austin Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff33da1-8ed0-4887-95d8-e90e20e919e0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi and welcome to my practice . I strive to do a comprehensive psychiatric assessment that looks at the whole person , including their strengths , their history and the goals they may have . While I primarily do med assessments, I also use interpersonal and cognitive techniques to help the person arrive at the goal of Better mental health! All are unique and have had a different journey ....some stand in their own way, and we use a collaborative approach to help the patient self assess , and maintain an improved self , more confident and insightful and assisting in their own mental health needs .
Hi and welcome to my practice . I strive to do a comprehensive psychiatric assessment that looks at the whole person , including their strengths , their history and the goals they may have . While I primarily do med assessments, I also use interpersonal and cognitive techniques to help the person arrive at the goal of Better mental health! All are unique and have had a different journey ....some stand in their own way, and we use a collaborative approach to help the patient self assess , and maintain an improved self , more confident and insightful and assisting in their own mental health needs .
![Photo of Lynda Michele Parker - Dr Lynda Michele - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/261e2702-c65e-4dbd-a2c7-5e058b1f76ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Allison Duggan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry - Cedar Park, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4360e3c-23e8-434f-b3ac-fc330c152387/1/320x400.png)
If you are suffering from medication resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD, a combination of talk therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be the answer for you. For many people, antidepressants do not fully relieve the symptoms or cause too many side effects, and it can become very difficult going through multiple medications that do not seem to work. After failed medication attempts, you are eligible to be treated with TMS and therapy together. Call our Specialists to learn more about your options.
If you are suffering from medication resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD, a combination of talk therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be the answer for you. For many people, antidepressants do not fully relieve the symptoms or cause too many side effects, and it can become very difficult going through multiple medications that do not seem to work. After failed medication attempts, you are eligible to be treated with TMS and therapy together. Call our Specialists to learn more about your options.
![Photo of Patricia Joshua, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ead756e3-b904-4d02-ae2b-d1796f9e76bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I offer integrated mental health care with a wide range of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches, for individuals aged 12 and older.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I offer integrated mental health care with a wide range of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches, for individuals aged 12 and older.
![Photo of Dr. Udo Chukwuocha, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02c70ce1-7c9e-4e1e-a804-fb9b8c89dc83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Udo Chukwuocha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: CopeWell and Live Well with Us at CopeWell Psychiatry & Wellness! Hello, I’m Dr. Udo, a doctoral-prepared PsychNP offering personalized virtual care for individuals aged 16-65 in TX, CA, & WA. Specializing in caring for the mental health of college-age/young adults, BIPOC, and healthcare workers, I provide support for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, PTSD, & ADHD. My holistic approach combines evidence-based medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes to build long-term stability and resilience. Let's work together to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Accepting New Clients: CopeWell and Live Well with Us at CopeWell Psychiatry & Wellness! Hello, I’m Dr. Udo, a doctoral-prepared PsychNP offering personalized virtual care for individuals aged 16-65 in TX, CA, & WA. Specializing in caring for the mental health of college-age/young adults, BIPOC, and healthcare workers, I provide support for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, PTSD, & ADHD. My holistic approach combines evidence-based medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes to build long-term stability and resilience. Let's work together to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
![Photo of Jesse Pritchett, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff5f9434-5ad7-48d5-aa07-4e97bec63800/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jesse Pritchett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745 (Online Only)
•• Accepting New Patients Anywhere In Texas •• ••Easily schedule an appointment online at www.npsychiatry.com/schedule •• Jesse, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings extensive experience nurturing mental well-being in adults. His dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, Jesse believes in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
•• Accepting New Patients Anywhere In Texas •• ••Easily schedule an appointment online at www.npsychiatry.com/schedule •• Jesse, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings extensive experience nurturing mental well-being in adults. His dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, Jesse believes in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
![Photo of Emmanuella Edekobi, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1177441b-da5f-41b2-b179-ff0275147ede/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuella Edekobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745 (Online Only)
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
![Photo of Jibril Yakubu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaf27ba9-48c0-4b17-9d1f-681579edd457/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78735 (Online Only)
At Legion Health, we understand that mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health, looking for both guidance and support on their journey. They seek practical, effective solutions and a personalized approach that recognizes their unique needs. In a safe and collaborative environment, we’ll work together to build resilience and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
At Legion Health, we understand that mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. My ideal client is someone ready to take control of their mental health, looking for both guidance and support on their journey. They seek practical, effective solutions and a personalized approach that recognizes their unique needs. In a safe and collaborative environment, we’ll work together to build resilience and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
![Photo of Dr. Lynn Spillar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03178c92-1b4e-4f5e-93c6-69db39b14fa2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 20 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals ages 18-62 and address ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am focused on providing thoughtful and individualized care, integrating pharmacotherapy with individual psychotherapy. I believe a comprehensive understanding of one's experiences helps in leading a brave authentic life, and I am dedicated to helping my patients find this.
I am a Psychiatrist and have been providing mental health services for 20 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals ages 18-62 and address ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am focused on providing thoughtful and individualized care, integrating pharmacotherapy with individual psychotherapy. I believe a comprehensive understanding of one's experiences helps in leading a brave authentic life, and I am dedicated to helping my patients find this.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0be4c81d-f153-49d6-bfd5-697293cbc28b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78749 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
See more therapy options for Sunset Valley
Nearby Searches for Sunset Valley
- Austin
- Bee Cave
- Buda
- Cedar Park
- Dripping Springs
- Kyle
- Lakeway
- Leander
- Pflugerville
- Round Rock
- West Lake Hills
- Wimberley
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sunset Valley, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sunset Valley, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Sunset Valley, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sunset Valley?
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.