Psychiatrists in 72120

Photo of Brandi Yarberry - New Hope Child Psychiatry , Psychiatrist, DO
New Hope Child Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Yarberry is a Little Rock native. She attended Mt. St. Mary Academy, then Lyon College, and received her medical degree at Ohio University. Dr. Yarberry completed both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Her last two years she served as Chief Resident and Co-Chief Resident. She is double board certified in Child and Adolescent and General Psychiatry. When she's not in the office she enjoys the outdoors, traveling, dancing and spending time with her husband, 2 daughters, cat and adorable Chihuahua.
Dr. Yarberry is a Little Rock native. She attended Mt. St. Mary Academy, then Lyon College, and received her medical degree at Ohio University. Dr. Yarberry completed both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Her last two years she served as Chief Resident and Co-Chief Resident. She is double board certified in Child and Adolescent and General Psychiatry. When she's not in the office she enjoys the outdoors, traveling, dancing and spending time with her husband, 2 daughters, cat and adorable Chihuahua.
(501) 300-6282 View (501) 300-6282

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dawn Lindsey - Omni Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, LCSW
Omni Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cabot, AR 72023
OMNI Health & Wellness is a mental and behavioral health practice for individuals age 14 and up. We offer individual therapy and medication management. Each of our Therapists and Nurse Practitioners are specialists in particular areas and regularly collaborate on patient care. We utilize evidence based treatments and tailor it to each individual client. Our goal is to provide each client the best, most comprehensive care that we can.
OMNI Health & Wellness is a mental and behavioral health practice for individuals age 14 and up. We offer individual therapy and medication management. Each of our Therapists and Nurse Practitioners are specialists in particular areas and regularly collaborate on patient care. We utilize evidence based treatments and tailor it to each individual client. Our goal is to provide each client the best, most comprehensive care that we can.
(501) 557-0761 View (501) 557-0761
Photo of Stephanie Burnett - Salt + Light Holistic Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C
Salt + Light Holistic Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maumelle, AR 72113
Welcome! We seek to provide a balanced approach to mental health, offering both medication management and supportive therapy. Whether you may struggle with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, we provide an array of compassionate providers to help you find stability. Work with us to create goals to find peace in your emotions, improve daily functioning, and work through past trauma. Together, we'll build a personalized plan to promote long-term well-being and health!
Welcome! We seek to provide a balanced approach to mental health, offering both medication management and supportive therapy. Whether you may struggle with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, we provide an array of compassionate providers to help you find stability. Work with us to create goals to find peace in your emotions, improve daily functioning, and work through past trauma. Together, we'll build a personalized plan to promote long-term well-being and health!
(501) 271-3874 View (501) 271-3874
Photo of Nihit Kumar, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
Nihit Kumar
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
I am a licensed and board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management and addiction services for adults and children. Through my contributions to clinical work, teaching, and research, I've been recognized as a Distinguished Fellow by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I primarily treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma in children and adolescents, and substance use problems in youth and adults.
I am a licensed and board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management and addiction services for adults and children. Through my contributions to clinical work, teaching, and research, I've been recognized as a Distinguished Fellow by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I primarily treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma in children and adolescents, and substance use problems in youth and adults.
(501) 298-4789 View (501) 298-4789
Photo of Julie Harris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN
Julie Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be tough, but you don't have to face it alone. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe space for you to heal and grow. I take a holistic approach to mental health care. This means caring for the whole person and addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I focus on treating the mental health needs of adults and older adults.
Life can be tough, but you don't have to face it alone. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe space for you to heal and grow. I take a holistic approach to mental health care. This means caring for the whole person and addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I focus on treating the mental health needs of adults and older adults.
Photo of Jenna Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jenna Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have provided comprehensive, evidence-based care to thousands of patients across the lifespan struggling with various mental health challenges, including anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and grief. I have served populations in both metropolitan and rural areas, which fuels my advocacy for affordable, quality mental health care for all patients in all places.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have provided comprehensive, evidence-based care to thousands of patients across the lifespan struggling with various mental health challenges, including anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and grief. I have served populations in both metropolitan and rural areas, which fuels my advocacy for affordable, quality mental health care for all patients in all places.
(501) 825-4256 View (501) 825-4256
Photo of Nancy L Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Nancy L Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
My ideal patient is seeking an experienced medication management provider who embraces a holistic approach to mental and physical health. You may need a new or different psychiatric medication, or you may need health coaching, or you may need someone to help you advocate differently with your primary care physician. Or you may need all of these things! I am motivated to travel WITH my patients, to make sure they feel heard and understood, and to collaborate on a treatment plan. We will leave no stone unturned.
My ideal patient is seeking an experienced medication management provider who embraces a holistic approach to mental and physical health. You may need a new or different psychiatric medication, or you may need health coaching, or you may need someone to help you advocate differently with your primary care physician. Or you may need all of these things! I am motivated to travel WITH my patients, to make sure they feel heard and understood, and to collaborate on a treatment plan. We will leave no stone unturned.
(501) 322-6716 x10 View (501) 322-6716 x10
Photo of Devin Devlin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Devin Devlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health care across the lifespan. I am dedicated to providing patient-centered care and creating personalized plans to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I work closely with clients to assess their needs, set realistic goals, and develop a therapeutic pharmacological plan to support their progress. My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and gender-affirming care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health care across the lifespan. I am dedicated to providing patient-centered care and creating personalized plans to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I work closely with clients to assess their needs, set realistic goals, and develop a therapeutic pharmacological plan to support their progress. My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and gender-affirming care.
(501) 669-8263 View (501) 669-8263
Photo of Erica Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental wellness. I specialize in diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and personality disorders. I have expertise in medication management and therapeutic interventions tailored to each patient’s needs.  I am licensed in AR, NY, and CA. I offer comprehensive lab testing, including adrenal function, hormones, gut health, and heavy metals. I also offer Genesight testing, and SPRAVAT0 (intranasal ketamine) treatment.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental wellness. I specialize in diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and personality disorders. I have expertise in medication management and therapeutic interventions tailored to each patient’s needs.  I am licensed in AR, NY, and CA. I offer comprehensive lab testing, including adrenal function, hormones, gut health, and heavy metals. I also offer Genesight testing, and SPRAVAT0 (intranasal ketamine) treatment.
(501) 263-2090 View (501) 263-2090
Photo of Dr. Dianna Esmaeilpour, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Dr. Dianna Esmaeilpour
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
Now accepting new patients at Capstone Psychiatry. Dr. Esmaeilpour is a Child and Adult Psychiatrist. She treats mood, anxiety, and thought disorders as well as PTSD and neurodevelopmental disorders. She believes that a good patient physician relationship is the foundation for good care.
Now accepting new patients at Capstone Psychiatry. Dr. Esmaeilpour is a Child and Adult Psychiatrist. She treats mood, anxiety, and thought disorders as well as PTSD and neurodevelopmental disorders. She believes that a good patient physician relationship is the foundation for good care.
(501) 441-4980 View (501) 441-4980
Photo of Kelsey McClellan, Psychiatrist, MD
Kelsey McClellan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207
I am a licensed psychiatrist who primarily treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, neurodivergence, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia. I believe that the best path to mental wellness is one built on collaboration. I view every patient as a partner in their own care, working together with compassion, respect, and understanding.
I am a licensed psychiatrist who primarily treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, neurodivergence, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia. I believe that the best path to mental wellness is one built on collaboration. I view every patient as a partner in their own care, working together with compassion, respect, and understanding.
(501) 727-4183 View (501) 727-4183
Photo of Laura Conley-Olsen, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura Conley-Olsen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
I specialize in treating the mental health needs of children and adults using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, including therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medications when indicated. I always appreciate input from families, outside therapists, and teachers when developing treatment plans. My special interests include autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, trauma, trichotillomania, tic disorders, and gender dysphoria. While I do primarily see children and adolescents, I also enjoy caring for adults with autism and those with women’s mental health needs.
I specialize in treating the mental health needs of children and adults using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, including therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medications when indicated. I always appreciate input from families, outside therapists, and teachers when developing treatment plans. My special interests include autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, trauma, trichotillomania, tic disorders, and gender dysphoria. While I do primarily see children and adolescents, I also enjoy caring for adults with autism and those with women’s mental health needs.
(501) 521-1407 View (501) 521-1407
Photo of Rebecca Webb, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP-B
Rebecca Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022
Many patients I see are seeking change. Change from their current symptoms, history of family dysfunction, or response to the world around them. They are pursuing fulfillment. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my focus is medication management. My aim is to collaborate with patients and set mutual goals to help in this pursuit of fulfillment. I believe the foundation of a strong relationship is honesty and empathy, this is true of the working relationship between provider and patient. I have long had an interest in mental health, first earning a degree in psychology prior to becoming a nurse.
Many patients I see are seeking change. Change from their current symptoms, history of family dysfunction, or response to the world around them. They are pursuing fulfillment. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my focus is medication management. My aim is to collaborate with patients and set mutual goals to help in this pursuit of fulfillment. I believe the foundation of a strong relationship is honesty and empathy, this is true of the working relationship between provider and patient. I have long had an interest in mental health, first earning a degree in psychology prior to becoming a nurse.
(501) 302-4157 View (501) 302-4157
Photo of Alisha McCool, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP
Alisha McCool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
I am accepting new patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
I am accepting new patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
(501) 441-3353 View (501) 441-3353
Photo of Cathy Pettis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BCC
Cathy Pettis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 10 years of nursing experience. Cathy is playful, creative, and compassionate about delivering quality care to those she serves. She believes that everyone has a beautiful destination and at times needs support in arriving. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and sometimes it feels difficult to navigate alone. Cathy is here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Her goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to homeostasis once again.
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 10 years of nursing experience. Cathy is playful, creative, and compassionate about delivering quality care to those she serves. She believes that everyone has a beautiful destination and at times needs support in arriving. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and sometimes it feels difficult to navigate alone. Cathy is here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Her goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to homeostasis once again.
(501) 300-9926 View (501) 300-9926
Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(501) 322-6678 View (501) 322-6678
Photo of Nikol Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, LNC, FCN
Nikol Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, LNC, FCN
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mental wellness through every stage of womanhood is a journey best adventured in partnership. Navigating the complexities of reproductive health can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a dedicated Reproductive Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am here to support you through every stage of your journey—from adolescence to menopause and beyond. NP Clinic is your safe haven for perinatal care and maternal mental health needs. Through Justice Rx program, Legal Nurse Consulting & Mediation services are offered to include victim impact support, court accompaniment, and restorative justice circles.
Mental wellness through every stage of womanhood is a journey best adventured in partnership. Navigating the complexities of reproductive health can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a dedicated Reproductive Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am here to support you through every stage of your journey—from adolescence to menopause and beyond. NP Clinic is your safe haven for perinatal care and maternal mental health needs. Through Justice Rx program, Legal Nurse Consulting & Mediation services are offered to include victim impact support, court accompaniment, and restorative justice circles.
(479) 294-2106 View (479) 294-2106
Photo of Sherita Antoinette Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Sherita Antoinette Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate, holistic care that supports my clients in achieving mental wellness and improved quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and respect, recognizing that each person’s journey and mental health needs are unique.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate, holistic care that supports my clients in achieving mental wellness and improved quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and respect, recognizing that each person’s journey and mental health needs are unique.
(501) 501-9470 View (501) 501-9470
Photo of Melissa Bell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Melissa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
Melissa is a dedicated and compassionate nurse practitioner dual certified in Family Practice and Psychiatry. She has been providing comprehensive, patient-centered care since 2013, working with individuals of all ages and levels of complexity. With a deep commitment to mental health and overall well-being, she takes a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring each patient receives personalized and evidence-based care.
Melissa is a dedicated and compassionate nurse practitioner dual certified in Family Practice and Psychiatry. She has been providing comprehensive, patient-centered care since 2013, working with individuals of all ages and levels of complexity. With a deep commitment to mental health and overall well-being, she takes a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring each patient receives personalized and evidence-based care.
(501) 322-6361 View (501) 322-6361
Photo of Cathy Petty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cathy Petty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. I am qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. I have experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. I am qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. I have experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.
(501) 790-4332 View (501) 790-4332

See more therapy options for 72120

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 72120

< 10

Psychiatrists in 72120 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 72120 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 72120?

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

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

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

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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