Psychiatrists in 75205

Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
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.
(214) 428-6492 View (214) 428-6492
Photo of Nancy Soll Shosid, MD, Psychiatrist
Nancy Soll Shosid
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
After practicing psychiatry for 30 years my practice has evolved with a focus on Functional Psychiatry and Women's Brain Health. If you have a psychiatric condition and are looking to alternatives to psychiatric medications or ways to decrease or optimize your response to your medications Functional Psychiatry may the approach you have been missing. Additionally, if you are a woman of any age it is never too early or late to focus on ways to maximize your brain health. This is especially important to women in the perimenopausal and postmenopausal age range as the rate of Dementia is on the rise.
After practicing psychiatry for 30 years my practice has evolved with a focus on Functional Psychiatry and Women's Brain Health. If you have a psychiatric condition and are looking to alternatives to psychiatric medications or ways to decrease or optimize your response to your medications Functional Psychiatry may the approach you have been missing. Additionally, if you are a woman of any age it is never too early or late to focus on ways to maximize your brain health. This is especially important to women in the perimenopausal and postmenopausal age range as the rate of Dementia is on the rise.
(469) 940-4147 View (469) 940-4147
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
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.
(469) 746-3676 View (469) 746-3676
Photo of Michelle Monson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Monson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, ADHD, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance.
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, ADHD, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance.
(214) 239-4572 View (214) 239-4572
Photo of Dr. Kameko McGuire - Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
I pride myself on being approachable. I have worked with clients of all ages. I feel it is imperative to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. How can I help? I am your mental health advocate, and as a team, we will work on getting you what you need to be the best version of yourself. Please review my list of accepted insurances. I do not accept Medicaid at this time.
I pride myself on being approachable. I have worked with clients of all ages. I feel it is imperative to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. How can I help? I am your mental health advocate, and as a team, we will work on getting you what you need to be the best version of yourself. Please review my list of accepted insurances. I do not accept Medicaid at this time.
(850) 204-9390 View (850) 204-9390
Photo of William Goldman, MD, Psychiatrist
William Goldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
I care about positive outcomes in my patients, and depend upon patients' and families' investment in the process of seeking health, recovery, and long-term well-being. I encourage collaboration with area psychotherapists as part of this process. My role is not that of a pill-pusher, but rather an expert diagnostician, guide, educator, and pharmacologic manager; likewise, I believe the patient's duty is to be an active participant in the process of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term recovery. *Please note that I do not participate in Medicare, Medicaid or any third-party payor or insurance panels.*
I care about positive outcomes in my patients, and depend upon patients' and families' investment in the process of seeking health, recovery, and long-term well-being. I encourage collaboration with area psychotherapists as part of this process. My role is not that of a pill-pusher, but rather an expert diagnostician, guide, educator, and pharmacologic manager; likewise, I believe the patient's duty is to be an active participant in the process of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term recovery. *Please note that I do not participate in Medicare, Medicaid or any third-party payor or insurance panels.*
(817) 533-8326 View (817) 533-8326
Photo of Neha Chaudhary, MD, Psychiatrist
Neha Chaudhary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
On faculty at Harvard / Mass General, I'm a double-boarded child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist who offers telemedicine-based evaluation and treatment of kids, adolescents, and adults. I take a comprehensive approach, considering all aspects of you or your child’s lifestyle in order to create an individualized treatment program that meets you where you are. I believe that for treatment to be successful, you or your child will need to be evaluated and treated within the broader context of who you are, considering genetics, family dynamics, social supports, romantic relationships, careers, hobbies, habits, and unique stressors.
On faculty at Harvard / Mass General, I'm a double-boarded child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist who offers telemedicine-based evaluation and treatment of kids, adolescents, and adults. I take a comprehensive approach, considering all aspects of you or your child’s lifestyle in order to create an individualized treatment program that meets you where you are. I believe that for treatment to be successful, you or your child will need to be evaluated and treated within the broader context of who you are, considering genetics, family dynamics, social supports, romantic relationships, careers, hobbies, habits, and unique stressors.
(628) 265-8883 View (628) 265-8883
Photo of Dr. Daniel Daylamani, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Daniel Daylamani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
(512) 991-5846 View (512) 991-5846
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Omotayo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Stephanie Omotayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Accepting New Patients. You deserve a life that makes you happy. To wake up in the morning, and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. I love helping regardless of gender, race, or sexuality. For people with opioid addiction, I prescribe Buprenorphine.
Accepting New Patients. You deserve a life that makes you happy. To wake up in the morning, and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. I love helping regardless of gender, race, or sexuality. For people with opioid addiction, I prescribe Buprenorphine.
(214) 623-6732 View (214) 623-6732
Photo of Mark Holsey, DO, Psychiatrist
Mark Holsey
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
My ideal patient is an adult that is seeking compassionate mental healthcare, and motivated to pursue relief from persistent symptoms that impact their daily functioning. They need a supportive and non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies. Their goals include reducing symptom severity and enhancing overall quality of life. They want to regain control and find a path to long-term mental health stability, driven by a desire for a fulfilling and balanced life.
My ideal patient is an adult that is seeking compassionate mental healthcare, and motivated to pursue relief from persistent symptoms that impact their daily functioning. They need a supportive and non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies. Their goals include reducing symptom severity and enhancing overall quality of life. They want to regain control and find a path to long-term mental health stability, driven by a desire for a fulfilling and balanced life.
(936) 301-0279 View (936) 301-0279
Photo of Paige Thacker, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paige Thacker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
There is nothing worse than hearing that alarm clock day in and out, only to wake up feeling like you didn’t sleep at all. All the thoughts begin to flood in, your “to-do’s”, this or that meeting or appointment. You haven’t even made it out the door before feeling completely overwhelmed, defeated, or maybe even hopeless. Depressed, anxious, moody, or irritable may be words that describe how you’re feeling; perhaps your loved ones have said similar things. I have helped countless others like yourself, and I am confident that together we can get you feeling better. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders adolescents and adults
There is nothing worse than hearing that alarm clock day in and out, only to wake up feeling like you didn’t sleep at all. All the thoughts begin to flood in, your “to-do’s”, this or that meeting or appointment. You haven’t even made it out the door before feeling completely overwhelmed, defeated, or maybe even hopeless. Depressed, anxious, moody, or irritable may be words that describe how you’re feeling; perhaps your loved ones have said similar things. I have helped countless others like yourself, and I am confident that together we can get you feeling better. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders adolescents and adults
(682) 243-8289 View (682) 243-8289
Photo of Teresa Hug, MSN, PMHNP-C, ACNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Hug
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, ACNP-c
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. Learning new skills and strategies to cope with stressors can help manage your emotional reactions.
In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. Learning new skills and strategies to cope with stressors can help manage your emotional reactions.
(727) 205-5111 View (727) 205-5111
Photo of Odochi Onungwa - Nextgen Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nextgen Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
Dr. Odochi Onungwa is a highly trained and experienced practitioners with a proven background in the treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our goal is to restore the whole person including the body, psyche, brain, and soul.
Dr. Odochi Onungwa is a highly trained and experienced practitioners with a proven background in the treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our goal is to restore the whole person including the body, psyche, brain, and soul.
(214) 239-4282 View (214) 239-4282
Photo of Preston Wiles, MD, Psychiatrist
Preston Wiles
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He now runs the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He was recently named Assistant Dean for Student and Resident Mental Health and Wellness at UT Southwestern. He is a qualified mindfulness teacher through Jon Kabat Zinn's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program at UMass Medical Cntr
Dr. Wiles is an exert at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and neuropsychiatric disorders of children, adolescents, and young adults such as OCD, Tourette's and autism spectrum disorders. He was Medical Director of the UTSW-Childens Medical Center Autism Center for several years. He now runs the Student Wellness and Counseling clinic as UT Southwestern and the Resident Wellness Clinic as well. He was recently named Assistant Dean for Student and Resident Mental Health and Wellness at UT Southwestern. He is a qualified mindfulness teacher through Jon Kabat Zinn's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program at UMass Medical Cntr
(475) 242-8896 View (475) 242-8896
Photo of Paul Edward Hunnicutt - Texas Mental Health and Wellness Center PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CMGT-BC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Texas Mental Health and Wellness Center PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, CMGT-BC, CCM
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205  (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!
(830) 445-2671 View (830) 445-2671
Photo of Dr. Karolyn Skalany, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Karolyn Skalany
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Karolyn Skalany focuses on providing patient centered medical care for the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. Dr. Skalany is also a specialist in female reproductive psychiatry, including perinatal and post-partum depression, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, and mood issues related to perimenopause.
Dr. Karolyn Skalany focuses on providing patient centered medical care for the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, and insomnia. Dr. Skalany is also a specialist in female reproductive psychiatry, including perinatal and post-partum depression, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, and mood issues related to perimenopause.
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Photo of Ephraim T Fombo, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ephraim T Fombo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and afflicts people in all socioeconomic statuses. Yet, mental illness has unnecessarily been a taboo, which is particularly unfortunate because this only makes it more likely that people will suffer in silence. It is an ordinary illness with its own kind of treatment approaches. Life is full of overwhelming challenges that may affect mental balance. Also, mental illness is often not situational and is prominent among members of certain families. With all this, it is no surprise that mental illness is rampant and should be taken seriously and treated, rather than hide it in shame.
Mental illness knows no socio-economic boundaries and afflicts people in all socioeconomic statuses. Yet, mental illness has unnecessarily been a taboo, which is particularly unfortunate because this only makes it more likely that people will suffer in silence. It is an ordinary illness with its own kind of treatment approaches. Life is full of overwhelming challenges that may affect mental balance. Also, mental illness is often not situational and is prominent among members of certain families. With all this, it is no surprise that mental illness is rampant and should be taken seriously and treated, rather than hide it in shame.
(210) 761-5127 View (210) 761-5127
Photo of Kimberly Sennet - The HIVE Maternal Wellness Center, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The HIVE Maternal Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
The transition into parenthood can be challenging because there are so many changes and things happen unexpectantly. We do our best to be prepared, yet we may find ourselves lost in overwhelm. We are pretty familiar with the physical changes, but less so with the mental ones. If this is you, let me reassure you many others have been there and there is help for your situation. My name is Kimberly Sennet and I'm here to encourage you to take a step- for yourself, your baby, and your family. I'm here whenever you are ready.
The transition into parenthood can be challenging because there are so many changes and things happen unexpectantly. We do our best to be prepared, yet we may find ourselves lost in overwhelm. We are pretty familiar with the physical changes, but less so with the mental ones. If this is you, let me reassure you many others have been there and there is help for your situation. My name is Kimberly Sennet and I'm here to encourage you to take a step- for yourself, your baby, and your family. I'm here whenever you are ready.
(737) 227-0626 View (737) 227-0626
Photo of Alexander Cole - Prestonwood Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Prestonwood Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
Prestonwood Health is a physician-founded, owned, and operated psychiatric practice with three board-certified psychiatrists serving patients in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex and throughout Texas. Our team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, including medications, psychotherapy, and other interventions. We pride ourselves on our patient-centered, individualized approach that places you at the center of your treatment.
Prestonwood Health is a physician-founded, owned, and operated psychiatric practice with three board-certified psychiatrists serving patients in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex and throughout Texas. Our team of experienced and compassionate psychiatrists are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives using a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, including medications, psychotherapy, and other interventions. We pride ourselves on our patient-centered, individualized approach that places you at the center of your treatment.
(214) 810-1898 View (214) 810-1898
Photo of Melissa B. Wallace, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist
Melissa B. Wallace
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. It's important to find a doctor you feel comfortable with, who is willing to listen without judgment, and who can treat you holistically. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I offer both psychotherapy and medication management, allowing me to individualize treatment according to your needs.
Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult, but you are taking an important step in improving your mental and emotional well-being. It's important to find a doctor you feel comfortable with, who is willing to listen without judgment, and who can treat you holistically. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I offer both psychotherapy and medication management, allowing me to individualize treatment according to your needs.
(682) 223-4925 View (682) 223-4925
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75205

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 75205 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
96% Anxiety
89% Medication Management
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Stress
74% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 75205 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

61% Female
39% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75205?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.