Psychiatrists in Galveston County, TX
![Photo of Irene Pedraza - Friendswood Psychiatry and TMS Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/758c29e3-f0bf-4ee5-81ab-a9fe5466bc42/1/320x400.jpeg)
Friendswood Psychiatry and TMS Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry where I served as Chief Fellow. I am dedicated to my patients' success in healing, growth, and overall wellbeing. My goal is to guide patients through their mental health journey toward positive outcomes and improved quality of life.
I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry where I served as Chief Fellow. I am dedicated to my patients' success in healing, growth, and overall wellbeing. My goal is to guide patients through their mental health journey toward positive outcomes and improved quality of life.
![Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ccfb4ee-94dc-46ec-9f9e-1e51d640c0ae/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Salah Qureshi - Texas Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51af8678-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
At Texas Behavioral Health, we treat a variety of patients that include all age ranges and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our four locations, our providers aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through both inpatient and outpatient programs.
![Photo of Chantelle Shaw, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d89b0f7-9745-4170-947d-5e80079c46c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chantelle Shaw is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She offers a comprehensive range of support and expertise to her clients. With a deep cultural understanding, Dr. Shaw brings sensitivity and insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by children and adolescents, considering cultural, social, and familial factors impacting mental health. She provides tailored treatment approaches that are culturally competent and relevant, respecting her clients’ cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values. Dr.
Dr. Chantelle Shaw is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She offers a comprehensive range of support and expertise to her clients. With a deep cultural understanding, Dr. Shaw brings sensitivity and insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by children and adolescents, considering cultural, social, and familial factors impacting mental health. She provides tailored treatment approaches that are culturally competent and relevant, respecting her clients’ cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values. Dr.
![Photo of Feilcitas Okwara, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a255398b-e2a3-4116-85c4-92a74c5efd1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
Felicitas Okwara is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. Felicitas helps clients by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, prescribing medications, offering psychotherapy, educating them about their conditions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. Also, Felicitas can assist client in various ways, such as providing information, offering advice, generating creative ideas, helping with problem-solving, offering emotional support, and much more.
![Photo of Darren Fred, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0da85862-d60c-4356-aa82-bbfd20e0a9df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darren Fred is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University, graduating summa cum laude, and a medical degree from University of Texas Medical School at Houston (McGovern). He completed his Residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock serving as Chief Resident in years 3 and 4. Darren values psychoeducation above all else. Darren believes in the importance of educating his patients about their conditions and potential treatments to demystify mental health issues and help them make informed decisions about their care.
Darren Fred is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University, graduating summa cum laude, and a medical degree from University of Texas Medical School at Houston (McGovern). He completed his Residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock serving as Chief Resident in years 3 and 4. Darren values psychoeducation above all else. Darren believes in the importance of educating his patients about their conditions and potential treatments to demystify mental health issues and help them make informed decisions about their care.
![Photo of Mehreen Ghanchi, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69481a9b-41f0-4e3f-b1c0-ff19e12ff80c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mehreen Ghanchi is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Mehreen's heart and passion is not only in caring for others but assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. Mehreen's experience includes several years of working in a psychiatric hospital serving children, adolescent and adult population.
Mehreen Ghanchi is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Mehreen's heart and passion is not only in caring for others but assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. Mehreen's experience includes several years of working in a psychiatric hospital serving children, adolescent and adult population.
Moore Health Solutions, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
Hello: Do you struggle with addiction, or do you have a mental health diagnosis such as anxiety or depression? I understand seeking help can feel overwhelming, even scary. I can help!
Hello: Do you struggle with addiction, or do you have a mental health diagnosis such as anxiety or depression? I understand seeking help can feel overwhelming, even scary. I can help!
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5865b150-8ce8-4be8-8516-cb2c89ffe4bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Oluwatobi Adeleke, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6a15000-7f22-4cae-9cf5-85e86424be64/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oluwatobi Adeleke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galveston, TX 77550 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself facing challenges in life that leave you feeling unfulfilled? Do you feel less understood and less alone in your daily struggles? As a child, were you the victim of abuse or neglect? Do you frequently feel down, grumpy, angry, tense, or uninspired? Do you lack self-assurance and worry that you aren't good enough? Is it hard for you to believe people? Do you struggle with mental health or relationships? I I'm a LGBTQ+ affirming Psychiatric provider who can help you create a personalized care plan to achieve your mental and emotional well-being .
Do you find yourself facing challenges in life that leave you feeling unfulfilled? Do you feel less understood and less alone in your daily struggles? As a child, were you the victim of abuse or neglect? Do you frequently feel down, grumpy, angry, tense, or uninspired? Do you lack self-assurance and worry that you aren't good enough? Is it hard for you to believe people? Do you struggle with mental health or relationships? I I'm a LGBTQ+ affirming Psychiatric provider who can help you create a personalized care plan to achieve your mental and emotional well-being .
![Photo of Carolyn Denice Thompson - AKADI Mental Health Services , MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c96e4539-6bf2-4f88-9cd4-9993942aabb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
AKADI Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dickinson, TX 77539
Hello. My name is Carolyn Thompson. I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner & ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider. I specialize in anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, and others. As a PMHNP, I’m committed to providing a patient centered, team approach to caring for my patients. Nurturing mind, body, and spirit. Performing and providing care to the best of my ability in every encounter. We’ll work side by side to find the right balance for you using an evidenced based approach to guide our decisions on medication management. I provide client centered care to clients in Texas, Washington and New Mexico.
Hello. My name is Carolyn Thompson. I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner & ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider. I specialize in anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, and others. As a PMHNP, I’m committed to providing a patient centered, team approach to caring for my patients. Nurturing mind, body, and spirit. Performing and providing care to the best of my ability in every encounter. We’ll work side by side to find the right balance for you using an evidenced based approach to guide our decisions on medication management. I provide client centered care to clients in Texas, Washington and New Mexico.
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![Photo of Shakil Siddiqui, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5837e1b-6cec-4c3a-8e6c-f7169688e3b6/1/320x400.png)
Shakil Siddiqui, M.D. is a highly rated psychiatrist and a proud member of Lifestance Health PLLC team in Houston, Texas. Dr. Siddiqui has more than 25 years of experience as psychiatrist. He has experience treating multiple different psychiatric illnesses including Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, PSTD, etc. For several years, Dr. Siddiqui worked at Rusk Hospital in Rusk, Texas where he treated a large number of acutely ill and newly admitted psychiatric patients in the psychiatric unit.
Shakil Siddiqui, M.D. is a highly rated psychiatrist and a proud member of Lifestance Health PLLC team in Houston, Texas. Dr. Siddiqui has more than 25 years of experience as psychiatrist. He has experience treating multiple different psychiatric illnesses including Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, PSTD, etc. For several years, Dr. Siddiqui worked at Rusk Hospital in Rusk, Texas where he treated a large number of acutely ill and newly admitted psychiatric patients in the psychiatric unit.
![Photo of Jacquelin Joffray, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f37804c-4f0a-4272-8fd8-3c7a1c70e07a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacquelin Joffray is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys providing mental health care, for a variety of mental health conditions. She began her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, graduating with her master's degree from the University of South Alabama. But in realizing she wanted to do more, she later attended Frontier Nursing University, and obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate certificate, across the lifespan. Jacquelin takes pride in helping to address the mental health stigma and shame in seeking care.
Jacquelin Joffray is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys providing mental health care, for a variety of mental health conditions. She began her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, graduating with her master's degree from the University of South Alabama. But in realizing she wanted to do more, she later attended Frontier Nursing University, and obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-graduate certificate, across the lifespan. Jacquelin takes pride in helping to address the mental health stigma and shame in seeking care.
![Photo of Caroline Lam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18996fa6-dbf1-4413-84dc-31ca1b725f2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
Dr. Caroline Lam is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and ADHD. She obtained her bachelor's degree at The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with high honors. She then earned her medical degree and completed a general adult psychiatry residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX. She is a compassionate psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through evidence-based treatments.
![Photo of Courtney Simmons-Matthews - Pilgrimage of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/314fc7d5-5ee6-4422-a9ff-c6b492c35810/1/320x400.png)
Pilgrimage of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt intimidated or discriminated against by stigmas and stereotypes associated with mental illness, self-harming behaviors, suicidal thoughts, or substance use disorders? Are you suffering alone in silence? Does irrational thinking or poor coping mechanisms triggered racing thoughts, rapid mood swings, or risky behaviors that affect your relationships, home environment, or work performance? Has childhood abuse or past traumas progressed into adulthood, causing you to question your abilities to overcome anger, guilt, or shame? Eventually, you found courage to get help, only to be dismissed by barriers to care.
Have you ever felt intimidated or discriminated against by stigmas and stereotypes associated with mental illness, self-harming behaviors, suicidal thoughts, or substance use disorders? Are you suffering alone in silence? Does irrational thinking or poor coping mechanisms triggered racing thoughts, rapid mood swings, or risky behaviors that affect your relationships, home environment, or work performance? Has childhood abuse or past traumas progressed into adulthood, causing you to question your abilities to overcome anger, guilt, or shame? Eventually, you found courage to get help, only to be dismissed by barriers to care.
![Photo of Omotayo Gbengaojo - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bd9d9b0-437a-4c5a-9f34-fc969b136aaa/2/320x400.png)
Holistic Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573 (Online Only)
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
![Photo of Shamira Green, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed0edc30-56ae-4e79-bc2d-6dbc076fd0ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shamira Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
Welcome to my profile! I am Shamira Green, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a heartfelt dedication to providing compassionate care. My journey in healthcare has allowed me to serve patients across all ages in diverse settings, from acute care hospitals to long-term care facilities. My commitment extends beyond professional settings, as I've actively volunteered within my community to ensure accessible healthcare for all. I proudly hold a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Sam Houston State University, where I also thrived as a collegiate athlete.
Welcome to my profile! I am Shamira Green, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a heartfelt dedication to providing compassionate care. My journey in healthcare has allowed me to serve patients across all ages in diverse settings, from acute care hospitals to long-term care facilities. My commitment extends beyond professional settings, as I've actively volunteered within my community to ensure accessible healthcare for all. I proudly hold a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Sam Houston State University, where I also thrived as a collegiate athlete.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8533c395-5409-4a72-8b2b-ab9c7a37c84e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Francisca Nebe, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b675eb9-5ca5-48ab-9222-458cfdbc0e91/3/320x400.jpeg)
Francisca Nebe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Fe, TX 77510 (Online Only)
Accepting new patient in TX, WA, NM, VA, and FL . Welcome to Caretouch Psychiatry where you will be heard, respected and treated with compassion in a safe space. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience in various healthcare field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and other mental health conditions. . In addition to Psychiatry, I also offer Virtual Primary and Urgent Care in TX, WA, VA,FL, and NM.
Accepting new patient in TX, WA, NM, VA, and FL . Welcome to Caretouch Psychiatry where you will be heard, respected and treated with compassion in a safe space. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience in various healthcare field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and other mental health conditions. . In addition to Psychiatry, I also offer Virtual Primary and Urgent Care in TX, WA, VA,FL, and NM.
![Photo of Janet Oladipo, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b24c8f82-03ee-480f-8f0e-f18e26fca8c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Oladipo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546 (Online Only)
Janet Oladipo is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Janet earned her first associate degree in nursing from Albany State University, Albany, Georgia and Bachelor’s degree in nursing from University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
Janet Oladipo is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Janet earned her first associate degree in nursing from Albany State University, Albany, Georgia and Bachelor’s degree in nursing from University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
See more therapy options for Galveston County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Galveston County, TX
50+
Average cost per session
$137
Psychiatrists in Galveston County, TX who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | ADHD |
64% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Galveston County, TX see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Galveston County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.