Psychiatrists in Stafford, TX
![Photo of Jessy Cecil, MSN, ED, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3a8cef95-5f6d-4983-95ff-18e6aa99c5cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessy Cecil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ED, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
Hi! I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas. I received my Master's in Nursing Education from the University of Phoenix in 2010 and I received post master's degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from Herzing University in 2022. I have been a registered nurse for 36 years and have been working as PMHNP for more than a year. I help all age groups from 5 years to 100 years who are struggling with mental health problems.
Hi! I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas. I received my Master's in Nursing Education from the University of Phoenix in 2010 and I received post master's degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from Herzing University in 2022. I have been a registered nurse for 36 years and have been working as PMHNP for more than a year. I help all age groups from 5 years to 100 years who are struggling with mental health problems.
![Photo of Nelly Okere, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a8f86035-a853-4ae4-a945-dce0991d3ba0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nelly Okere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
![Photo of LaTarsha Edwards, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/d3dad838-0a6d-407f-8dd8-6f8d2be797d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaTarsha Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 25 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and address Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Mood Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Counseling, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I provide quality of care by using evidence based practice to individualize each care plan according to each patients needs.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 25 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and address Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Mood Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Counseling, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I provide quality of care by using evidence based practice to individualize each care plan according to each patients needs.
![Photo of Stephanie Sim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3b94c184-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
As a psychiatrist, I use both medications and/or therapy to provide compassionate and personalized care to help individuals in personal growth and to live more satisfying lives. In working with individuals, I strive for recovery of illness, and not just improvement in symptoms.
![Photo of William H Reading - William H. Reading, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/6c0453f7-e5da-4168-aa85-2b85c45ca2f3/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology for the past 25 years. I am a graduate of San Jacinto College, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio, and Texas Tech Medical School Residency program in Neuropsychiatry. I diagnose and treat adults, adolescents, and children for most psychiatric disorders especially major depressive disorder and attention deficit disorder (ADHD).
I have been Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology for the past 25 years. I am a graduate of San Jacinto College, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio, and Texas Tech Medical School Residency program in Neuropsychiatry. I diagnose and treat adults, adolescents, and children for most psychiatric disorders especially major depressive disorder and attention deficit disorder (ADHD).
![Photo of Nelly Okere, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/52632f30-6542-4a7b-bbdc-b40f8dfb002a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nelly Okere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
Accepting NEW clients( children, teens, and adults). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, over eating, and depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, symptoms of autism disorder and bipolar disorder. Call now for a consultation.
![Photo of Pulcharia Thompson, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/6cf77b37-10d9-4b47-9257-55f1db32e849/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pulcharia Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
![Photo of Sharyl Workman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/677e95c7-485e-494d-905c-17c2524a84c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you’re struggling with schizophrenia, depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorder, bipolar disorder, or ADHD– or if you’re an emergency provider, a first responder, a police officer, or a veteran in need of support – know that I’m here to offer guidance and assistance. Call today to book your appointment & unlock your path to mental well-being.
Whether you’re struggling with schizophrenia, depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorder, bipolar disorder, or ADHD– or if you’re an emergency provider, a first responder, a police officer, or a veteran in need of support – know that I’m here to offer guidance and assistance. Call today to book your appointment & unlock your path to mental well-being.
![Photo of Pulcharia Thompson - Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/44bf5824-4ce2-40a6-8294-e1320b115ae5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5e8e5ca8-f5e9-4b20-b264-f3497120b75c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
![Photo of Priscilla Omoleme, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/cbe62d37-00c6-4415-95a1-317e7981f2db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Priscilla Omoleme
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
My Philosophy of treatment is ‘patient centered”. My methodology begins with empathic listening to my patients and working as a team, I provide diagnosis and various treatment options available to my patients, explaining pros and cons and empowering my patients to make sound choices based on evidence-based medicine. I believe in providing attentive care in a congenial atmosphere to reduce or eliminate sufferings. I make sure that my patients are on the right treatment plan!
My Philosophy of treatment is ‘patient centered”. My methodology begins with empathic listening to my patients and working as a team, I provide diagnosis and various treatment options available to my patients, explaining pros and cons and empowering my patients to make sound choices based on evidence-based medicine. I believe in providing attentive care in a congenial atmosphere to reduce or eliminate sufferings. I make sure that my patients are on the right treatment plan!
15 Second Videos
Nelly Okere
Nelly Okere
Pulcharia Thompson
Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC
Ike Uzowulu
![Photo of Olatimbo Aladeloye, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/d75e828a-1369-41af-89e1-dcf2a168fd0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Olatimbo “Rebecca” Aladeloye. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing in healthcare for over 10 years. My clinical expertise includes providing comprehensive assessments, diagnosing mental health conditions, developing individualized treatment plans, and supportive psychotherapy. Mental Health is wealth. There is no reason to suffer in silence. You deserve to be mentally healthy, and I am here to help you through the tough times.
My name is Olatimbo “Rebecca” Aladeloye. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing in healthcare for over 10 years. My clinical expertise includes providing comprehensive assessments, diagnosing mental health conditions, developing individualized treatment plans, and supportive psychotherapy. Mental Health is wealth. There is no reason to suffer in silence. You deserve to be mentally healthy, and I am here to help you through the tough times.
![Photo of Omar Pinjari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a3e6ad18-80d6-43ef-8ddb-9478ba7fa299/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Omar Pinjari is a board-certified psychiatrist with 18 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. After completing his medical school in India, he forged a career which saw him train in the UK and the United States. After successfully completing his core psychiatry training and attaining his post graduate diploma in mental health from the prestigious Queen's University, Belfast, he worked as a Staff Psychiatrist for 5 years in the suburbs of city of Cardiff, Wales treating patients struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety etc.
Dr. Omar Pinjari is a board-certified psychiatrist with 18 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. After completing his medical school in India, he forged a career which saw him train in the UK and the United States. After successfully completing his core psychiatry training and attaining his post graduate diploma in mental health from the prestigious Queen's University, Belfast, he worked as a Staff Psychiatrist for 5 years in the suburbs of city of Cardiff, Wales treating patients struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety etc.
![Photo of Izuchukwu Emejulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/0fa299cb-c59f-483c-bdef-4aeaa2b91f46/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a nationally credentialed and board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from University of South Alabama with certification to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I also have an additional specialization as a DEA certified Buprenorphine practitioner with vast knowledge and experience in treating patients with opioid use disorders.
I am a nationally credentialed and board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from University of South Alabama with certification to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I also have an additional specialization as a DEA certified Buprenorphine practitioner with vast knowledge and experience in treating patients with opioid use disorders.
![Photo of Oluwadayo Adeyemo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/c65049ed-26e3-436b-bb58-c6fcae452241/1/320x400.png)
Dayo Adeyemo is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Have been in healthcare for almost fifteen years, providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to various demography of patients. Dayo manages and treats a wide range of mental health disorders, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Dementia. Dayo provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management specifically tailored needs for each client according to their personal history and circumstances.
Dayo Adeyemo is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Have been in healthcare for almost fifteen years, providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to various demography of patients. Dayo manages and treats a wide range of mental health disorders, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Dementia. Dayo provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management specifically tailored needs for each client according to their personal history and circumstances.
![Photo of Sabeen Faris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/481a8f9d-eb12-489e-92d6-b51bd5db7d8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabeen Faris is a double board-certified adult and geriatric Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2009. She completed her Psychiatry residency from Nassau University Medical Center and her Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship from Hofstra Northshore - LIJ School of Medicine program at Zucker Hillside Hospital. Sabeen has extensive experience treating people with a wide spectrum of psychiatric disorders and psychological challenges. As a board-certified psychiatrist, Sabeen has worked in different mental health care settings including inpatient, outpatient, interventional psychiatry, and long-term care.
Sabeen Faris is a double board-certified adult and geriatric Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2009. She completed her Psychiatry residency from Nassau University Medical Center and her Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship from Hofstra Northshore - LIJ School of Medicine program at Zucker Hillside Hospital. Sabeen has extensive experience treating people with a wide spectrum of psychiatric disorders and psychological challenges. As a board-certified psychiatrist, Sabeen has worked in different mental health care settings including inpatient, outpatient, interventional psychiatry, and long-term care.
![Photo of Tracie DeJarnette-Holly, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a8d48c22-4299-450d-a70a-4f9da4994da6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. DeJarnette received her bachelors of science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing, MI. She obtained her medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Dr. DeJarnette completed her general psychiatry residency at Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation in New Orleans. She also completed her child psychiatry and forensic psychiatry fellowships in New Orleans at Tulane University Medical Center. She is board certified in general, child and forensic psychiatry.
Dr. DeJarnette received her bachelors of science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing, MI. She obtained her medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Dr. DeJarnette completed her general psychiatry residency at Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation in New Orleans. She also completed her child psychiatry and forensic psychiatry fellowships in New Orleans at Tulane University Medical Center. She is board certified in general, child and forensic psychiatry.
![Photo of Lynora Metoyer, FNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/f4e64f1b-ad80-49bf-8851-1dcd0e1fb0d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Lynora J. Metoyer. I am a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I graduated from Texas Woman's University in 1987 with a Bachelors of Nursing degree. I practiced as a heart/kidney/liver transplant nurse and then transferred to Medical Surgical ICU at St. Luke's Hospital. I then obtained my Master's degree in Nursing and Post Masters FNP from University of Texas and Houston Baptist University respectively. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2011 from Chatham University in Pittsburgh. I received my PMHNP certification in 2021.
My name is Dr. Lynora J. Metoyer. I am a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I graduated from Texas Woman's University in 1987 with a Bachelors of Nursing degree. I practiced as a heart/kidney/liver transplant nurse and then transferred to Medical Surgical ICU at St. Luke's Hospital. I then obtained my Master's degree in Nursing and Post Masters FNP from University of Texas and Houston Baptist University respectively. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2011 from Chatham University in Pittsburgh. I received my PMHNP certification in 2021.
![Photo of Abiola Oyemade, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/0b8fd38f-f7aa-4484-9c68-5d3f5f35b614/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abiola Oyemade is a Psychiatric Mental Health Provider who sees patients from age 16-90 years, who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from Wilkes University with her Doctorate in Nursing, Walden University with a degree in Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health. Abiola believes in combining Psychopharmacology and psychotherapy as treatment approach. She believes we must be consistent with our actions throughout our journey in life , being persistent and patient in life, will make your goals come into fruition. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Major Depressive disorder and Insomnia.
Abiola Oyemade is a Psychiatric Mental Health Provider who sees patients from age 16-90 years, who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from Wilkes University with her Doctorate in Nursing, Walden University with a degree in Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health. Abiola believes in combining Psychopharmacology and psychotherapy as treatment approach. She believes we must be consistent with our actions throughout our journey in life , being persistent and patient in life, will make your goals come into fruition. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Major Depressive disorder and Insomnia.
![Photo of Elizabeth Emebo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a8db1804-5676-45ea-af5b-bdcdf2d66af8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Emebo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate degree in Nursing at Prairie View A&M University in Texas and earned her Master's degree at Walden University. Before working as a nurse practitioner, Elizabeth has several years of experience in Medical-surgical/Neurology/Neurosurgery. She has been providing excellent, compassionate psychiatric care to clients in an inpatient clinical setting.
Elizabeth Emebo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate degree in Nursing at Prairie View A&M University in Texas and earned her Master's degree at Walden University. Before working as a nurse practitioner, Elizabeth has several years of experience in Medical-surgical/Neurology/Neurosurgery. She has been providing excellent, compassionate psychiatric care to clients in an inpatient clinical setting.
See more therapy options for Stafford
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Stafford, TX
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Stafford, TX who prioritize treating:
87% | Depression |
83% | Anxiety |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | ADHD |
52% | Medication Management |
48% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
95% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Stafford, TX see their clients
92% | In Person and Online | |
8% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Stafford?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.