Psychiatrists in Watauga, TX
![Photo of Dianne Mbai - Bethesda Mental Health, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a8b4f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bethesda Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Watauga, TX 76148 (Online Only)
Welcome to Bethesda Mental Health! My name is Dianne Mbai, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in Adolescent and Adult mental health providing Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health to include addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs.
Welcome to Bethesda Mental Health! My name is Dianne Mbai, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in Adolescent and Adult mental health providing Compassionate, Safe, and Evidence Based Care. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health to include addressing your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Sheila Vinson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/391eca02-68e2-4946-b852-af1deca1a3bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Vinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092 (Online Only)
I provide services to address some of life’s most challenging issues and mental health concerns; including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, mood disorders, schizophrenia, as well as grief and loss.
I provide services to address some of life’s most challenging issues and mental health concerns; including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, mood disorders, schizophrenia, as well as grief and loss.
![Photo of Dr. Laura Fredes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a64b604-10bd-4da6-a4bd-9453ffbbb92e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Dr. Laura Fredes, Board Certified Psychiatrist. My upbringing in Peru and my training in New York City exposed me to a melting pot of cultures, enhancing my understanding of the diverse impacts on mental health. As a wife and mother, I bring a personal touch to my professional life, emphasizing strong patient-provider relationships. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health and the treatment of perinatal and perimenopausal mental disorders.
I am Dr. Laura Fredes, Board Certified Psychiatrist. My upbringing in Peru and my training in New York City exposed me to a melting pot of cultures, enhancing my understanding of the diverse impacts on mental health. As a wife and mother, I bring a personal touch to my professional life, emphasizing strong patient-provider relationships. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health and the treatment of perinatal and perimenopausal mental disorders.
![Photo of Terry Van Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry of Dallas - We Are Open!, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ab9809d-3606-4190-84ac-00390510117e/1/320x400.png)
Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry of Dallas - We Are Open!
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Grapevine, TX 76051
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Dallas, our priority is patient care and comfort-driven by a personalized treatment plan.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS Dallas, our priority is patient care and comfort-driven by a personalized treatment plan.
![Photo of Jeneba Sheriff - Jeneba Sheriff, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e25f301e-fa46-4af1-9525-fa9483b586b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeneba Sheriff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76244 (Online Only)
Jeneba works with clients with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, insomnia, bipolar disorders, and psychotic disorders. She is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing individualized and holistic mental health care while utilizing evidence-based approaches. She takes pride in her specialties. Seeking mental health services can be daunting but you're making the right choice.
Jeneba works with clients with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, insomnia, bipolar disorders, and psychotic disorders. She is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing individualized and holistic mental health care while utilizing evidence-based approaches. She takes pride in her specialties. Seeking mental health services can be daunting but you're making the right choice.
![Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eafb34d-cb18-4d1e-896e-0eb11faacccd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2be3dd17-8d70-4e72-9aad-dcd7e1a7675f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244 (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.
![Photo of Dr. Mercy Ngeusang, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a811bd7a-3bc2-4c06-a3d0-2cc818d119f5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mercy Ngeusang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244
Dr. Mercy Ngeusang is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years of cumulative experience in caring. Obtained her doctorate degree at Northern Kentucky University, prior to years of clinical practice specializing in Psychiatry. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from University in Maryland USA, and continued to further her education through Walden University where she received her Master’s Degree. She treats numerous complex mental health conditions requiring ongoing medication management for children, adolescents, Adults and Elderly populations.
Dr. Mercy Ngeusang is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years of cumulative experience in caring. Obtained her doctorate degree at Northern Kentucky University, prior to years of clinical practice specializing in Psychiatry. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from University in Maryland USA, and continued to further her education through Walden University where she received her Master’s Degree. She treats numerous complex mental health conditions requiring ongoing medication management for children, adolescents, Adults and Elderly populations.
![Photo of Risikat Lawal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3603c84c-4541-4766-a896-e463fe3a3563/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am the psychiatric provider at Holistic Practice, and it is my greatest pleasure that you have considered me as your health care provider. I believe in holistic care for all my patients. My approach is to treat the whole self; mental, social, and physical self. Whether you feel overwhelmed, or your psychotherapist wanted you to see a psychiatric mental provider for medications or evaluation or medication management, I combined empathy, compassion, and professionalism to develop a treatment that will work with your needs.
I am the psychiatric provider at Holistic Practice, and it is my greatest pleasure that you have considered me as your health care provider. I believe in holistic care for all my patients. My approach is to treat the whole self; mental, social, and physical self. Whether you feel overwhelmed, or your psychotherapist wanted you to see a psychiatric mental provider for medications or evaluation or medication management, I combined empathy, compassion, and professionalism to develop a treatment that will work with your needs.
![Photo of Dr. Amanda Kennedy, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb22f3ab-de78-4be3-8a9e-c30b7abb967f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amanda Kennedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76137 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
![Photo of Dr. Kelly Quakenbush, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49423568-1281-43d2-9cdd-d31f835c943f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Take charge of your health. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or ADHD, we can help you. See an actual physician, not a random "provider" assigned to you with an online-only company. You deserve a qualified physician to oversee your treatment. Intentional Life Psychiatry is a medical practice and you are the priority.
Take charge of your health. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or ADHD, we can help you. See an actual physician, not a random "provider" assigned to you with an online-only company. You deserve a qualified physician to oversee your treatment. Intentional Life Psychiatry is a medical practice and you are the priority.
![Photo of Prajnawati Wibowo, DNP, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5435f130-e84f-4b55-939b-4b5bb55aed6d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Prajnawati Wibowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244
My goal is to create a transparent and honest environment that promote growth. I promise always to be truthful, respectful, understanding, and fair when working with you. I have a Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Texas and I am dual certified as a Psychiatric and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. With years of psychiatric experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice.
My goal is to create a transparent and honest environment that promote growth. I promise always to be truthful, respectful, understanding, and fair when working with you. I have a Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Texas and I am dual certified as a Psychiatric and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. With years of psychiatric experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice.
![Photo of Judith Moraa Nyabuti - Wholesome Mind Psychiatry and Wellness Clinic, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b81843f9-a5d4-450c-a12c-206eb4c10e1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wholesome Mind Psychiatry and Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
Judith enjoys working with diverse groups and people from different cultures. She practices improving mental wellness and quality of life for her patients. She treats children, adolescents, and adults ages twelve and above. Judith relates to patients in a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Judith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a 2022 graduate of University of Texas at Arlington. She is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and has 10 years of psychiatry experience, including over 7 years of Inpatient Psychiatric care.
Judith enjoys working with diverse groups and people from different cultures. She practices improving mental wellness and quality of life for her patients. She treats children, adolescents, and adults ages twelve and above. Judith relates to patients in a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Judith is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a 2022 graduate of University of Texas at Arlington. She is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and has 10 years of psychiatry experience, including over 7 years of Inpatient Psychiatric care.
![Photo of Pauline George, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c8eb4c2-b270-4561-ad25-4ebeae56f43f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Am a Board Certified PMHNP, i enjoy meeting new clients and helping them reach their desired goal in treatment. I use medication and a little bit of psychotherapy to treat. I see and care for patients with anxiety, Depression and various mental health needs. My expertise allows me to proficiently diagnose, manage and continue treatments as well as make referrals appropriately. I offer in-office visit and virtual appointments to accommodate my clients’ needs.
Am a Board Certified PMHNP, i enjoy meeting new clients and helping them reach their desired goal in treatment. I use medication and a little bit of psychotherapy to treat. I see and care for patients with anxiety, Depression and various mental health needs. My expertise allows me to proficiently diagnose, manage and continue treatments as well as make referrals appropriately. I offer in-office visit and virtual appointments to accommodate my clients’ needs.
![Photo of Lawretta Njideka Ezukanma, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf2a851f-cf8e-4600-8613-cd541e1a8aa9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lawretta Njideka Ezukanma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76244 (Online Only)
I put patient care above all else, aiming to make psychiatric services accessible to all patients with mental health disorders. I am eager to work with and support you to become the best person you look forward to being by applying holistic and evidence-based practice. Clients should expect a relaxing environment that is empathetic, compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental, encouraging patients to freely express their mental health concerns and feel heard. I take individual approach to treat patient with compassion, dignity and respect
I put patient care above all else, aiming to make psychiatric services accessible to all patients with mental health disorders. I am eager to work with and support you to become the best person you look forward to being by applying holistic and evidence-based practice. Clients should expect a relaxing environment that is empathetic, compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental, encouraging patients to freely express their mental health concerns and feel heard. I take individual approach to treat patient with compassion, dignity and respect
![Photo of Navjot (Navi) Hughes - Navi Hughes | Provider | Coach | Talk therapist , MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ee28746-2823-434e-a443-03a32768918a/1/320x400.png)
Navi Hughes | Provider | Coach | Talk therapist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Haslet, TX 76052
Everyone deserves to experience mental wellness. I specialize in helping you overcome overwhelm, anxiety, and relationship stress. By regulating your emotions and building a strong relationship with yourself, you'll gain clarity, discover your purpose, and rediscover the joy of each day. With access to medication management, therapy, and empowerment coaching, I'll guide you on your journey to a healthier you. Book your free 15-minute phone call to discover how to transform your mental health.
Everyone deserves to experience mental wellness. I specialize in helping you overcome overwhelm, anxiety, and relationship stress. By regulating your emotions and building a strong relationship with yourself, you'll gain clarity, discover your purpose, and rediscover the joy of each day. With access to medication management, therapy, and empowerment coaching, I'll guide you on your journey to a healthier you. Book your free 15-minute phone call to discover how to transform your mental health.
![Photo of Ugonna Okafor, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67cb0bda-4500-4910-a861-f48569a05a15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugonna Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76179 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
![Photo of Ujay Egbuji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31b153cd-152a-4efd-8893-7e1fbf9bcad6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Dr. Ujay, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel overwhelmed and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself?
Hi there, I'm Dr. Ujay, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel overwhelmed and unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself?
![Photo of Caroline Mose, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53dec962-0045-4056-b95a-8662b65cb7e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Mose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76179 (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with the access to the mental healthcare system, or overwhelmed with emotions and do not know where to start? I have 6 plus years working in various setting inpatient, outpatient and via tele-medicine I believe everyone’s mental health needs is unique, My goal is to take adequate time, to get to know you and work with you to customize treatment according to your needs. I strive to provide quality care that is individual based in a caring and non-judgmental manner.
Are you frustrated with the access to the mental healthcare system, or overwhelmed with emotions and do not know where to start? I have 6 plus years working in various setting inpatient, outpatient and via tele-medicine I believe everyone’s mental health needs is unique, My goal is to take adequate time, to get to know you and work with you to customize treatment according to your needs. I strive to provide quality care that is individual based in a caring and non-judgmental manner.
![Photo of Udo Chukwuocha - CopeWell Psychiatry & Wellness, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5ea17cf-ba6c-4a8a-9ece-858287f76f8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
CopeWell Psychiatry & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76177
I am accepting NEW patients for psychiatric evaluations + medication management. I work with patients to identify those life experiences that have led them to seek care. I know that reaching out for help may not always be easy, and some people may only pay attention to their mental health if they have mental illnesses. But the reality is your thoughts, feelings, & behaviors affect your overall energy & wellness. Taking care of your mental health is essential to creating & living the life you want. I’m here to help! I can promise you that I will listen and support you, and together we will create a treatment plan best for your needs.
I am accepting NEW patients for psychiatric evaluations + medication management. I work with patients to identify those life experiences that have led them to seek care. I know that reaching out for help may not always be easy, and some people may only pay attention to their mental health if they have mental illnesses. But the reality is your thoughts, feelings, & behaviors affect your overall energy & wellness. Taking care of your mental health is essential to creating & living the life you want. I’m here to help! I can promise you that I will listen and support you, and together we will create a treatment plan best for your needs.
See more therapy options for Watauga
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Watauga, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Watauga, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Watauga, TX see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Watauga?
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.