Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
Focus & Balance is a private psychiatric practice mental health professionals qualified and experienced in providing advanced psychiatric treatment, including ADHD in adults and children, to patients in the San Antonio area, With us, you can expect advanced psychopharmacology treatment for all mental issues provided by caring and compassionate clinicians. We are also offer TMS Therapy to our patients with depression. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy is one of the most technologically advanced depression treatments available. This non-invasive, outpatient therapy is FDA cleared and has helped thousand of depressed patients
Focus & Balance is a private psychiatric practice mental health professionals qualified and experienced in providing advanced psychiatric treatment, including ADHD in adults and children, to patients in the San Antonio area, With us, you can expect advanced psychopharmacology treatment for all mental issues provided by caring and compassionate clinicians. We are also offer TMS Therapy to our patients with depression. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy is one of the most technologically advanced depression treatments available. This non-invasive, outpatient therapy is FDA cleared and has helped thousand of depressed patients
Christina Wei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Mental wellness is a journey, and I would love to be a part of your treatment team! With more than 20 years of experience, I have a huge appreciation and respect for people who place their care in my hands. My ideal patient wants help from a highly qualified and caring professional who is versed in both psychiatry and brief psychotherapy, specializing in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Let's spend time collaborating on a well-thought-out and comprehensive treatment plan for your problems/concerns. Group therapy for adults is available.
Mental wellness is a journey, and I would love to be a part of your treatment team! With more than 20 years of experience, I have a huge appreciation and respect for people who place their care in my hands. My ideal patient wants help from a highly qualified and caring professional who is versed in both psychiatry and brief psychotherapy, specializing in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Let's spend time collaborating on a well-thought-out and comprehensive treatment plan for your problems/concerns. Group therapy for adults is available.
I strive to meet you where you are on your journey—no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a personalized, in-depth approach. We’ll develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real relief and renewed hope for your well-being.
I strive to meet you where you are on your journey—no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a personalized, in-depth approach. We’ll develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real relief and renewed hope for your well-being.
Doctor Ronald Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
Olubunmi Oladosu
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229 (Online Only)
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
My passion is working with people who want to make their lives better. If you are experiencing stress, struggling with low self-esteem. I use evidence-based practices in my assesement to determine if you have a diagnosis that medication can help. If so, we discuss options that may improve the quality of your life. You will find that I truly seek to understand you..... who you are, how you feel, and why you feel the way you do.
Dr. Ami Chatrath @ Wisemind
Psychiatrist, DO, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
. . . . . . . Get yourself an experienced board-certified physician that went through medical school & residency training! Dr. Ami Chatrath is based in San Antonio, Texas, and currently accepting new patients, both in-person and virtual, with immediate availability. . . . . . .
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.
Our clinic is now accepting all major insurances for medication management! Call now to schedule same day appointments at our San Antonio Medical Center location. Dr. Johnston specializes in the use of cutting edge evidence based treatments for depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other treatment-resistant disorders. Using treatments like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, IV and IM Ketamine, Inhaled Esketamine (Spravato), and ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) we have been able to help many in our community that had lost hope for getting better. Many of our treatments are covered by insurance.
Our clinic is now accepting all major insurances for medication management! Call now to schedule same day appointments at our San Antonio Medical Center location. Dr. Johnston specializes in the use of cutting edge evidence based treatments for depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other treatment-resistant disorders. Using treatments like Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, IV and IM Ketamine, Inhaled Esketamine (Spravato), and ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) we have been able to help many in our community that had lost hope for getting better. Many of our treatments are covered by insurance.
Dr. Pichot is a graduate of the UT Health San Antonio Psychiatry Residency Program and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He was nominated and selected by peer physicians in San Antonio Magazine’s Top Doctors of 2023 in Psychiatry and Super Doctors Rising Stars in 2024 with a special advertising section in the July issue of Texas Monthly. He is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy practicing in Alamo Heights at the Broadway Theater Building. In-person and virtual visits are options if there is availability when you call.
Dr. Pichot is a graduate of the UT Health San Antonio Psychiatry Residency Program and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He was nominated and selected by peer physicians in San Antonio Magazine’s Top Doctors of 2023 in Psychiatry and Super Doctors Rising Stars in 2024 with a special advertising section in the July issue of Texas Monthly. He is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy practicing in Alamo Heights at the Broadway Theater Building. In-person and virtual visits are options if there is availability when you call.
Brandi Hrasdzira is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She is a 2020 graduate from University of the Incarnate Word where she obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brandi offers a holistic approach to psychiatric treatment where she considers medical, mental, and social causes of symptoms. Brandi believes the best modality for treatment is both therapy and medication management. In her free time, Brandi enjoys spending time with her two dogs, the outdoors, gardening, crafting, concerts, and video games.
Brandi Hrasdzira is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She is a 2020 graduate from University of the Incarnate Word where she obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brandi offers a holistic approach to psychiatric treatment where she considers medical, mental, and social causes of symptoms. Brandi believes the best modality for treatment is both therapy and medication management. In her free time, Brandi enjoys spending time with her two dogs, the outdoors, gardening, crafting, concerts, and video games.
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
Dr. Cavazos was granted a full Army scholarship to attend medical school and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He did his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. After completing his four year residency in psychiatry, he became the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatric Care at Ireland Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He left the Army after completing his eight years of service as a Major. A member of various medical associations, he pursues being a vocal advocate for patient care and patient rights.
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Kristen Dale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204 (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
I work with individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives, often feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges. They seek a holistic approach to address not just their symptoms but the root causes. By considering mental, physical, and social factors, I help clients achieve mental wellness through therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication. My clients want to feel empowered, regain control, and create lasting, meaningful change in their lives, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
Mitarho Akpoyoware
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78247
I understand the difficult nature of battling and living with mental illness. It can be a daunting task at times to find a clinician that is the right fit. My clients can expect to have a better understanding of their illness, and how to cope with it. Collaborative goal setting will be utilized to address their concerns and feel empowered to improve the quality of their lives. I promote mental health and treat mental illness.
I understand the difficult nature of battling and living with mental illness. It can be a daunting task at times to find a clinician that is the right fit. My clients can expect to have a better understanding of their illness, and how to cope with it. Collaborative goal setting will be utilized to address their concerns and feel empowered to improve the quality of their lives. I promote mental health and treat mental illness.
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204 (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Deidre Rose Alder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209 (Online Only)
Deidre is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. She also believes in engaging in a therapeutic rapport.
Deidre is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats adults with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, sleeping disorders, and male/female issues. As a woman of color, an immigrant, and someone who has persevered through infertility to accomplish my dreams, I can identify with some unique challenges that individuals may face. As we face different circumstances, we will need different levels of psychological support and assistance throughout our lives. She also believes in engaging in a therapeutic rapport.
Dr. Taiwo I Abioye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232 (Online Only)
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
Are you tired, overwhelmed, hopeless, and burdened by the weight of your mental health? You deserve to be happy and live your best life. Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and affects people in all socioeconomic statuses. I take immense pride in helping and working with clients to find solutions to their Mental Health puzzles. I provide treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, Sleep problems, Stress, Eating disorder, and Medication-assisted treatment for addiction, amongst other mental health conditions. Be assured of a personalized patient-centered care you rightfully deserve.
Dana Ebeling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204 (Online Only)
I work with individuals who seek a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate, personalized care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. My ideal client values collaboration and is ready to partner with me on their journey toward healing and balance. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals, fostering resilience and personal growth.
I work with individuals who seek a holistic, integrative approach to mental health, blending conventional treatments and complementary therapies. Whether managing anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I offer compassionate, personalized care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. My ideal client values collaboration and is ready to partner with me on their journey toward healing and balance. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals, fostering resilience and personal growth.
Steve Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Mental health problems are challenging in so many ways. I can help you navigate evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management in a patient-centered manner. I am passionate about treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Mood Disorders like Depression, Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Depression. I also diagnose and treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Personality disorders.
Mental health problems are challenging in so many ways. I can help you navigate evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management in a patient-centered manner. I am passionate about treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Mood Disorders like Depression, Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Depression. I also diagnose and treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Personality disorders.
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. With 24/7 Direct Access For Established Patients.
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. With 24/7 Direct Access For Established Patients.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
200+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Aetna |
86% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Antonio?
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.