Psychiatrists in 76092
![Photo of Mahta Ostadian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54cc2b1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I endeavor to facilitate the growth of individual mental, emotional, and spiritual capacities, whether by optimizing effective medication for managing mood and anxiety symptoms or encouraging engagement in purposeful psychotherapy (or both). Practicing psychiatry over the past 14 years has guided me toward a realization that humanity is beautiful and that I am priviledged to have the opportunity to develop meaningful patient relationships, which, through the passage of time along with individual effort, promote personal acceptance, advancement, contentment, and peace.
As a psychiatrist, I endeavor to facilitate the growth of individual mental, emotional, and spiritual capacities, whether by optimizing effective medication for managing mood and anxiety symptoms or encouraging engagement in purposeful psychotherapy (or both). Practicing psychiatry over the past 14 years has guided me toward a realization that humanity is beautiful and that I am priviledged to have the opportunity to develop meaningful patient relationships, which, through the passage of time along with individual effort, promote personal acceptance, advancement, contentment, and peace.
![Photo of Lisa K Clayton - Lisa K. Clayton M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3a23543-98ad-463d-9ed9-9d80a021d681/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe as a physician in giving each patient the necessary time and attention to successfully treat their psychiatric problem.
I believe as a physician in giving each patient the necessary time and attention to successfully treat their psychiatric problem.
![Photo of Bene Aneke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c5f8739-7238-4290-a9cf-709c2fd84ce7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner licensed in Texas and New York. In addition to my specialization in mental health, I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner.
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner licensed in Texas and New York. In addition to my specialization in mental health, I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner.
![Photo of Neysa L. Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19bc61da-af85-4274-a76e-e3555648b522/1/320x400.png)
I treat all genders ages 18 and up for general psychiatric concerns. I also have a special interest in Reproductive Psychiatry - treating people who are pregnant, postpartum, planning a pregnancy, or who are undergoing fertility treatments as well as those who have suffered a loss.
I treat all genders ages 18 and up for general psychiatric concerns. I also have a special interest in Reproductive Psychiatry - treating people who are pregnant, postpartum, planning a pregnancy, or who are undergoing fertility treatments as well as those who have suffered a loss.
![Photo of William Goldman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff475a2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.*
![Photo of Bene Akunna Aneke, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7490190-e5c4-4810-bb41-c817b67ae368/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bene Akunna Aneke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I am a dual-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner at the helm of Still Psychiatry practice. We provide top-notch mental health and wellness services such as comprehensive mental health assessment and evaluations, medication management, health and wellness screenings, psychotherapy, and general adult mental health services. We understand the challenges and stigma associated with psychiatry and mental health, and actively work to defy stereotypes associated with such challenges while promoting overall mental health and wellness.
I am a dual-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner at the helm of Still Psychiatry practice. We provide top-notch mental health and wellness services such as comprehensive mental health assessment and evaluations, medication management, health and wellness screenings, psychotherapy, and general adult mental health services. We understand the challenges and stigma associated with psychiatry and mental health, and actively work to defy stereotypes associated with such challenges while promoting overall mental health and wellness.
I am happy to announce the opening of my practice in Southlake, Texas. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist and offer medication management in combination with psychotherapy or alone. If you are already working with a therapist I will communicate closely with them regarding your care. I completed medical school and residency training at the Johns Hopkins school of Medicine and have had extensive experience working with patients age 13 and up. I do not believe in the '15 minute med check', rather I enjoy working with a small number of patients and developing meaningful relatioships with them.
I am happy to announce the opening of my practice in Southlake, Texas. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist and offer medication management in combination with psychotherapy or alone. If you are already working with a therapist I will communicate closely with them regarding your care. I completed medical school and residency training at the Johns Hopkins school of Medicine and have had extensive experience working with patients age 13 and up. I do not believe in the '15 minute med check', rather I enjoy working with a small number of patients and developing meaningful relatioships with them.
![Photo of Paul Wright - IntegrityMind Psychiatry - Paul Wright MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21b67255-aae5-4216-9c5d-18bbe697b459/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Paul Wright has specialized in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He utilizes a unique, holistic approach that factors in lifestyle, environment, sleep habits, diet/exercise along with experiences, trauma, diagnoses and symptoms of mental illness. As well as medication management, Dr. Wright is fully committed to allocating the investment and attention that is required in giving individual and family psychotherapy.
Dr. Paul Wright has specialized in Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He utilizes a unique, holistic approach that factors in lifestyle, environment, sleep habits, diet/exercise along with experiences, trauma, diagnoses and symptoms of mental illness. As well as medication management, Dr. Wright is fully committed to allocating the investment and attention that is required in giving individual and family psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jesse Worsham, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/839e6822-368a-46df-befd-6cb805918105/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to providing excellent psychiatric care to my patients and believe in taking time to understand and know my patients in order to develop an individualized treatment plan. Alongside medication recommendations, I implement a holistic treatment approach including therapy, lifestyle changes and behavioral plans. I value the family-centered approach, developing plans with the family and patient, keeping their values in mind.
I am committed to providing excellent psychiatric care to my patients and believe in taking time to understand and know my patients in order to develop an individualized treatment plan. Alongside medication recommendations, I implement a holistic treatment approach including therapy, lifestyle changes and behavioral plans. I value the family-centered approach, developing plans with the family and patient, keeping their values in mind.
![Photo of Nishant Patel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54cb3eb4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can certainly bring unexpected challenges and dilemmas. People may encounter challenges around relationships, identity, or life path. Mood or anxiety symptoms can also emerge. People might face circumstances they didn’t ask for and through no fault of their own. Sometimes people feel stuck or aren’t operating in the way they’d like to be, and they might not even be sure why. As a board certified psychiatrist, I have trained and specialized in the assessment and management of mental health conditions. I enjoy engaging and collaborating with patients in addressing their situation on their unique life journey.
Life can certainly bring unexpected challenges and dilemmas. People may encounter challenges around relationships, identity, or life path. Mood or anxiety symptoms can also emerge. People might face circumstances they didn’t ask for and through no fault of their own. Sometimes people feel stuck or aren’t operating in the way they’d like to be, and they might not even be sure why. As a board certified psychiatrist, I have trained and specialized in the assessment and management of mental health conditions. I enjoy engaging and collaborating with patients in addressing their situation on their unique life journey.
![Photo of Heather Holland Skrivanek, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12438ceb-0622-44e3-b5cc-7611e2354ea1/1/320x400.png)
Heather Holland Skrivanek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
I work with clients of all ages to help maximize functioning at home, work, school, and in social settings. Clients often feel overwhelmed with mental health struggles, and I develop a therapeutic relationship to build the foundation of my care. I place an emphasis on evidence-based practice and compassionate care. I also believe in holistic family based care and place an emphasis on sleep, nutrition, activity, and self-care.
I work with clients of all ages to help maximize functioning at home, work, school, and in social settings. Clients often feel overwhelmed with mental health struggles, and I develop a therapeutic relationship to build the foundation of my care. I place an emphasis on evidence-based practice and compassionate care. I also believe in holistic family based care and place an emphasis on sleep, nutrition, activity, and self-care.
![Photo of Dr. Laura Fredes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a64b604-10bd-4da6-a4bd-9453ffbbb92e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Dr. Laura Fredes, Board Certified Psychiatrist. My upbringing in Peru and my training in New York City exposed me to a melting pot of cultures, enhancing my understanding of the diverse impacts on mental health. As a wife and mother, I bring a personal touch to my professional life, emphasizing strong patient-provider relationships. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health and the treatment of perinatal and perimenopausal mental disorders.
I am Dr. Laura Fredes, Board Certified Psychiatrist. My upbringing in Peru and my training in New York City exposed me to a melting pot of cultures, enhancing my understanding of the diverse impacts on mental health. As a wife and mother, I bring a personal touch to my professional life, emphasizing strong patient-provider relationships. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health and the treatment of perinatal and perimenopausal mental disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Ramya Seeni - Arête Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d04f56b-1b1c-47a9-af1f-6cc4aab2dc9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an immigrant & a trauma survivor, I offer culturally competent care that integrates knowledge & education from the East with research-based training from the West. I understand cultural barriers in mental health & will help navigate between native culture & your cultural adaptation journey. I resonate with "Addiction is a disease, NOT a moral issue" & offer psychedelic harm reduction using therapy, meds, supplements & lifestyle changes. If you're someone with failed med trials, have non-traditional relationships, we WILL find a way to improvise while you're embroiled in your adversities. Growing up close to a patient, I get it!
As an immigrant & a trauma survivor, I offer culturally competent care that integrates knowledge & education from the East with research-based training from the West. I understand cultural barriers in mental health & will help navigate between native culture & your cultural adaptation journey. I resonate with "Addiction is a disease, NOT a moral issue" & offer psychedelic harm reduction using therapy, meds, supplements & lifestyle changes. If you're someone with failed med trials, have non-traditional relationships, we WILL find a way to improvise while you're embroiled in your adversities. Growing up close to a patient, I get it!
![Photo of Heather Mendoza, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5040588b-32cc-4a9f-b05a-549e4e4fce0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Mendoza is a BoardCertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Science from Texas Tech and Master of Science from Walden University. Heather is passionate about the field of psychiatry and helping others overcome challenges they face in regard to their mental health. In her free time, Heather enjoys spending time with family on her small farm, traveling, and reading.
Heather Mendoza is a BoardCertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Science from Texas Tech and Master of Science from Walden University. Heather is passionate about the field of psychiatry and helping others overcome challenges they face in regard to their mental health. In her free time, Heather enjoys spending time with family on her small farm, traveling, and reading.
![Photo of Aaron Langford, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fe158c3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aaron Langford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNPBC, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS SITE FOR MED REFILL REQUESTS OR PRECEPTOR REQUESTS At Advanced Psychiatry, I strive to remove all barriers to you receiving quality psychiatric care. You have already taken the first step in finding help. Now you can visit my website to learn more about me and my colleagues or give us a call to schedule an appointment. If you are skeptical about psychiatric treatment, I challenge you to at least have an evaluation. Ultimately the decision to start treatment is yours, and I am happy to discuss options with you.
PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS SITE FOR MED REFILL REQUESTS OR PRECEPTOR REQUESTS At Advanced Psychiatry, I strive to remove all barriers to you receiving quality psychiatric care. You have already taken the first step in finding help. Now you can visit my website to learn more about me and my colleagues or give us a call to schedule an appointment. If you are skeptical about psychiatric treatment, I challenge you to at least have an evaluation. Ultimately the decision to start treatment is yours, and I am happy to discuss options with you.
![Photo of Kellie H Abbee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503d6043-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie H Abbee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Advanced Psychiatry offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management services for individuals from 16 years to 65 years.
Advanced Psychiatry offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management services for individuals from 16 years to 65 years.
![Photo of Edith Mendoza, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6177e3e3-ccd7-4997-9d9f-631e9ab55a3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edith Mendoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
At Advanced Psychiatry, I combine an evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. This is accomplished through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and paying attention to what patients have to say. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental health. You can visit my website to learn more about me and my colleagues or give us a call to schedule an appointment. I treat patients from age 16-60 years.
At Advanced Psychiatry, I combine an evidence-based practice with clinical experience, observation and listening to meet a patient “where they are” on their mental health journey. This is accomplished through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and paying attention to what patients have to say. When patients feel heard and respected, they are empowered to view their practitioner as someone who partners with them as they work to improve their mental health. You can visit my website to learn more about me and my colleagues or give us a call to schedule an appointment. I treat patients from age 16-60 years.
![Photo of Dr. Manu Mathews, MD,FIPP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce2d0471-29b4-44af-a0dd-f2c97ed31348/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helping people accomplish their potential and live fulfilling lives is the goal that we work towards. Unconditional acceptance and finding a way forward, identifying the conflicts, resolving them for a happier tomorrow are the focus of treatment. I enjoy working with patients suffering with depression, anxiety disorders, chronic pain and addictive disorders. Chronic conditions take away not only from the individual, but also from the families.
Helping people accomplish their potential and live fulfilling lives is the goal that we work towards. Unconditional acceptance and finding a way forward, identifying the conflicts, resolving them for a happier tomorrow are the focus of treatment. I enjoy working with patients suffering with depression, anxiety disorders, chronic pain and addictive disorders. Chronic conditions take away not only from the individual, but also from the families.
![Photo of Gene Fletcher - Neogen Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d62ead-107b-447d-9c38-a82df4fb6731/3/320x400.jpeg)
Compassionate and Empathetic Adult and Child Psychiatrist who provides evidence based Psychiatric solutions for patients seeking to balance and normalize their mental health. Patients may be seeking help with Depression, Anxiety, Adjusting to Situational Stressors, ADHD, Psychosis, Bipolar D/O, recent trauma or mental health issues related to substance abuse. (Not Addiction Medicine Fellowship trained)
Compassionate and Empathetic Adult and Child Psychiatrist who provides evidence based Psychiatric solutions for patients seeking to balance and normalize their mental health. Patients may be seeking help with Depression, Anxiety, Adjusting to Situational Stressors, ADHD, Psychosis, Bipolar D/O, recent trauma or mental health issues related to substance abuse. (Not Addiction Medicine Fellowship trained)
![Photo of Rebecca Birdsall, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2259a48-6195-4127-bbfd-521058afe2ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Birdsall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092 (Online Only)
I have a diverse educational and nursing background. I earned my first Bachelors of Science in Physiology degree from Oklahoma State University, and later my Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma City University. I also earned my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I have been inducted into the Golden Key Honors Society as well as Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing. I worked for nearly a decade as a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse in a variety of critical care settings before following my passion into psychiatry and mental health.
I have a diverse educational and nursing background. I earned my first Bachelors of Science in Physiology degree from Oklahoma State University, and later my Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma City University. I also earned my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I have been inducted into the Golden Key Honors Society as well as Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing. I worked for nearly a decade as a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse in a variety of critical care settings before following my passion into psychiatry and mental health.
See more therapy options for 76092
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 76092
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 76092 who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
84% | Medication Management |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
90% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 76092 see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 76092?
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.