Psychiatrists in Young County, TX
![Photo of Meagan Hoover, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b551c92b-ea42-4b08-8b68-3ef4e055771a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan Hoover
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Graham, TX 76450
My name is Meagan, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization settings. I treat all ages but have extensive experience in and a passion for the pediatric, adolescent, and young(ish) adult population. I love working with kids who are struggling with anxiety or depression, teens who don't seem to be making the best choices, and young adults who are still trying to figure out who they are.
My name is Meagan, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Texas. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization settings. I treat all ages but have extensive experience in and a passion for the pediatric, adolescent, and young(ish) adult population. I love working with kids who are struggling with anxiety or depression, teens who don't seem to be making the best choices, and young adults who are still trying to figure out who they are.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Satish Narayan, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83a01a5a-ccd1-46e5-98ce-15aafd8326da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Satish D. Narayan is a physician with 18 years of experience providing psychiatric services. He currently holds a position as the Medical Director of the Partial Hospitalization Program at Carrollton Springs and has been in private practice since 2008. He received his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College in 1990. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Temple University Hospital in 1998 and became certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2000. He has a professional membership with the Texas Medical Association.
Dr. Satish D. Narayan is a physician with 18 years of experience providing psychiatric services. He currently holds a position as the Medical Director of the Partial Hospitalization Program at Carrollton Springs and has been in private practice since 2008. He received his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College in 1990. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Temple University Hospital in 1998 and became certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2000. He has a professional membership with the Texas Medical Association.
![Photo of Cathrine Odim-Eluebo, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a13f96b0-eaa6-4621-9ceb-71256eecac2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cathrine Odim-Eluebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76015
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
![Photo of Sylvie Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f1f9509-9c6d-43bb-9cb6-e2f7ed671167/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am available to assist my patients every day of the week, including evenings, until 7 PM on days. I provide scheduling options, mainly catering to individuals who work.
I am available to assist my patients every day of the week, including evenings, until 7 PM on days. I provide scheduling options, mainly catering to individuals who work.
![Photo of Jocelyn Jingwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c02e88aa-6000-4207-a414-c6d412d47fc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
![Photo of Dede E Echitey - Tikvah Psychiatry, FNP-BC, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd611f1f-450f-4ff5-9515-be4f161cf0a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tikvah Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
Tikvah Psychiatry is an online psychiatric clinic that provides accredited service to adult patients (18 years & up) in Texas, Florida, and New York to help you overcome your mental health challenges, including but not limited to Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, and OCD. At this time, we cannot prescribe controlled substances.
Tikvah Psychiatry is an online psychiatric clinic that provides accredited service to adult patients (18 years & up) in Texas, Florida, and New York to help you overcome your mental health challenges, including but not limited to Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, and OCD. At this time, we cannot prescribe controlled substances.
![Photo of Jaishree Raghavan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2a4980f-799e-43f6-93a5-57c388ed7fe0/1/320x400.png)
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
Jaishree Raghavan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her masters of science degree and bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has been in the healthcare field and worked in multiple hospitals in the DFW metroplex for over 25 years. She did her clinical rotations in Wichita Falls, Burleson and Fort Worth treating adolescents, adults and geriatric populations with multiple psychiatric and mental health issues, including, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
![Photo of Richard Seldeen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f61ec28d-1572-4d8b-99cd-315b697b41fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Seldeen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewisville, TX 75077
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
![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 76109 (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. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f92056b-32ed-4588-908e-2a411a37d6e1/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? 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.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? 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 Ken Hopper, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ef81aa3-99c9-4d9e-8561-e448ae2e18eb/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been fortunate to partner with many patients to improve their happiness and impact at work, home, and in life. Patients who enter a relationship with The Hopper Group experience just that-a relationship. Our "aligned partnership" approach has been a hallmark of our clinical experience. Every patient deserves a roadmap of coaching and recommendations based on that patient's unique history and circumstance. Coaching and solution-oriented therapies in addition to appropriate medications are the tools applied to personal total person wellness plan at The Hopper Group.
I have been fortunate to partner with many patients to improve their happiness and impact at work, home, and in life. Patients who enter a relationship with The Hopper Group experience just that-a relationship. Our "aligned partnership" approach has been a hallmark of our clinical experience. Every patient deserves a roadmap of coaching and recommendations based on that patient's unique history and circumstance. Coaching and solution-oriented therapies in addition to appropriate medications are the tools applied to personal total person wellness plan at The Hopper Group.
![Photo of Simi Asekun - Transcend Mental Health & Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ff500a0-0b7a-4d03-abed-38e937a9209c/4/320x400.jpeg)
Transcend Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76010
With everything going on in the world, it is easy to get overwhelmed with emotions that could result in depression, stress, anxiety, frustration, substance, and drug addiction. My name is Simi Asekun, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I have over 13 years of collective nursing experience. I pride myself as an attentive listener that is passionate about my job and compassionate towards my clients. I will get to know you then establish long term relationship with you to reboot, restore and rejuvenate your mental acuity or general wellness.
With everything going on in the world, it is easy to get overwhelmed with emotions that could result in depression, stress, anxiety, frustration, substance, and drug addiction. My name is Simi Asekun, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I have over 13 years of collective nursing experience. I pride myself as an attentive listener that is passionate about my job and compassionate towards my clients. I will get to know you then establish long term relationship with you to reboot, restore and rejuvenate your mental acuity or general wellness.
![Photo of Lindsey O'Neill, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db5966a-5048-48c7-ae2a-fc856de43a22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey O'Neill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76109 (Online Only)
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
I believe in a collaborative and patient-centered approach. I value your input and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment to foster healing. Your mental health journey is unique, and together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr. Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99e2b492-a66d-4fb8-a51a-fb3161362bf8/2/320x400.jpeg)
VPP Clinic | Dr. Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76101 (Online Only)
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![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 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 Katie Kesterson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6a9205-b25a-4a3a-bc46-984f98da8d5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Kesterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012
Katie is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in Psychiatry to serve clients throughout the lifespan. Katie received her BSN from Midwestern State University in 2011 and then her MSN from Walden University in 2021. Katie works with clients across the lifespan experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. Her treatment model emphasizes providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment while allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
Katie is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that has been board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in Psychiatry to serve clients throughout the lifespan. Katie received her BSN from Midwestern State University in 2011 and then her MSN from Walden University in 2021. Katie works with clients across the lifespan experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and addiction disorders. Her treatment model emphasizes providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment while allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Sante Outpatient Program, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cef39cf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sante Outpatient Program
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Argyle, TX 76226
Santé's Intensive Outpatient Program is structured in 3 phases. Our philosophy is that the length of our program is dependent on goals achieved. Thus, some finish treatment in 16 weeks while others take a little longer. Phase One consists of 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks. Phase Two consists of 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks where different assignments & increase expectations around recovery behaviors are given. Phase Three consists of 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Our 16-week program includes group & individual therapy sessions spread through all the phases. Program completion dates & phases are individualized.
Santé's Intensive Outpatient Program is structured in 3 phases. Our philosophy is that the length of our program is dependent on goals achieved. Thus, some finish treatment in 16 weeks while others take a little longer. Phase One consists of 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks. Phase Two consists of 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks where different assignments & increase expectations around recovery behaviors are given. Phase Three consists of 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Our 16-week program includes group & individual therapy sessions spread through all the phases. Program completion dates & phases are individualized.
![Photo of Smink Achila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72c28c57-d258-467a-862c-a0c0c8647811/1/320x400.jpeg)
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75010 (Online Only)
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![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.
See more therapy options for Young County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Young County, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Young County, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Young County, TX see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Young County?
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.