Psychiatrists in 72207

Photo of Kelsey McClellan, MD, Psychiatrist
Kelsey McClellan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72207
I am a licensed psychiatrist who primarily treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, 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, 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 Mary Turner - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(228) 222-8864 View (228) 222-8864

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Dianna Esmaeilpour, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
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 Jeremy R Thompson, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeremy R Thompson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am a general psychiatrist providing medication management services. I manage most psychiatric conditions including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and addiction. My practice includes telehealth. I accept new patients and most insurance plans.
I am a general psychiatrist providing medication management services. I manage most psychiatric conditions including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and addiction. My practice includes telehealth. I accept new patients and most insurance plans.
(501) 271-4412 View (501) 271-4412
Photo of Christa Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christa Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
Christa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Nurse Educator holding Masters degrees in both specialties. She has a strong passion for mental health and educating her client as she feels knowledge is power. Christa utilizes evidence-based treatments and research as well as compassion and empathy to provide a holistic approach for individuals. She believes in taking time with her clients to not only get to know them but to also work together as a team to navigate treatment options that best benefit the client and support their overall health.
Christa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Nurse Educator holding Masters degrees in both specialties. She has a strong passion for mental health and educating her client as she feels knowledge is power. Christa utilizes evidence-based treatments and research as well as compassion and empathy to provide a holistic approach for individuals. She believes in taking time with her clients to not only get to know them but to also work together as a team to navigate treatment options that best benefit the client and support their overall health.
(501) 300-9586 View (501) 300-9586
Photo of Channing Hall, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Channing Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
I provide assessments and medication management, giving special attention to each client’s specific needs. This includes consideration of their personal histories, experiences and/or circumstances, questions/concerns or even fears about the initiation of medication(s), while addressing those needs with patience, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and aid in building rapport, comfort and trust.
I provide assessments and medication management, giving special attention to each client’s specific needs. This includes consideration of their personal histories, experiences and/or circumstances, questions/concerns or even fears about the initiation of medication(s), while addressing those needs with patience, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and aid in building rapport, comfort and trust.
(501) 302-4565 View (501) 302-4565
Photo of Tekima Pitts, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tekima Pitts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Tekima Pitts. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I believe in providing transparent, patient-centered care in a physically and mentally safe environment. My approach to mental healthcare is patient-centered, reality-based, and holistic. You cannot build rapport without understanding a person's reality.
I am Tekima Pitts. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I believe in providing transparent, patient-centered care in a physically and mentally safe environment. My approach to mental healthcare is patient-centered, reality-based, and holistic. You cannot build rapport without understanding a person's reality.
(870) 657-5330 View (870) 657-5330
Photo of Cathy Pettis, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BCC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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 Dawn Lindsey, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Lindsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022
You are not alone; we all struggle. I believe that everyone is a little broken by life and I am here to support anyone who has experienced this burden. My aim is to work collaboratively with you, to meet mutually set goals. In my office you will not be judged, nor will you feel displaced in my care. I believe patients should have a voice and a choice when it comes to the care provided to them. My treatment approach is multifaceted, as I follow a Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model, simply put, mental health and wellness is directly affected by a person’s genes, lifestyle, and social constructs.
You are not alone; we all struggle. I believe that everyone is a little broken by life and I am here to support anyone who has experienced this burden. My aim is to work collaboratively with you, to meet mutually set goals. In my office you will not be judged, nor will you feel displaced in my care. I believe patients should have a voice and a choice when it comes to the care provided to them. My treatment approach is multifaceted, as I follow a Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model, simply put, mental health and wellness is directly affected by a person’s genes, lifestyle, and social constructs.
(501) 300-2871 View (501) 300-2871
Photo of Chloe Ward, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chloe Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
My ideal client is an individual willing to put in the time and effort to know themselves and adhere to a treatment plan. He/she would be agreeable to a modality of therapy along with medication management. He/she would be motivated to give up use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol if necessary.
My ideal client is an individual willing to put in the time and effort to know themselves and adhere to a treatment plan. He/she would be agreeable to a modality of therapy along with medication management. He/she would be motivated to give up use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol if necessary.
(501) 673-5682 View (501) 673-5682
Photo of Destiny E Sellers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Destiny E Sellers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maumelle, AR 72113
Being raised in Booneville, Arkansas, I understand the struggles many Arkansans face in accessing quality, compassionate care. I specialize in providing evidence-based mental health services, including medication management and therapeutic interventions, tailored to your unique needs, goals, and preferences. Together, we’ll create a plan to support your mental well-being that aligns with your physical health.
Being raised in Booneville, Arkansas, I understand the struggles many Arkansans face in accessing quality, compassionate care. I specialize in providing evidence-based mental health services, including medication management and therapeutic interventions, tailored to your unique needs, goals, and preferences. Together, we’ll create a plan to support your mental well-being that aligns with your physical health.
(501) 381-5808 View (501) 381-5808
Photo of Briann Li Mandri, MSN, APRN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Briann Li Mandri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Bryant, AR 72022
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), offering a unique blend of professional and personal experience to provide a compassionate safe haven where your family's mental well-being is essential. I have 18 years of total nursing experience working in collaboration with multiple specialties. I offer comprehensive mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in providing holistic, compassionate, and individualized care. Offering personalized treatment plans that integrate therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), offering a unique blend of professional and personal experience to provide a compassionate safe haven where your family's mental well-being is essential. I have 18 years of total nursing experience working in collaboration with multiple specialties. I offer comprehensive mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in providing holistic, compassionate, and individualized care. Offering personalized treatment plans that integrate therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
(501) 382-1795 View (501) 382-1795
Photo of Emily Osborne, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
Everyone is dealing with something in life; no one should struggle alone. I collaborate with my patients to assess their mental health and well-being, set goals, and empower them to achieve those goals. My approach to treatment is multi-dimensional and person-centered. My office is a judgment-free area where people from all walks of life are valued and welcomed. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I obtained my RN from Baptist in 2009, my BSN from UALR in 2017, and my MSN from Walden University in 2021. I am board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Everyone is dealing with something in life; no one should struggle alone. I collaborate with my patients to assess their mental health and well-being, set goals, and empower them to achieve those goals. My approach to treatment is multi-dimensional and person-centered. My office is a judgment-free area where people from all walks of life are valued and welcomed. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I obtained my RN from Baptist in 2009, my BSN from UALR in 2017, and my MSN from Walden University in 2021. I am board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(501) 300-7463 View (501) 300-7463
Photo of Charlene Brown, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlene Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Charlene Brown. I am a certified psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I feel that care for mental health issues should be accessible to everyone. Without adequate treatment of mental health an individual put themselves at risk of not living their ultimate quality of life.
My name is Charlene Brown. I am a certified psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I feel that care for mental health issues should be accessible to everyone. Without adequate treatment of mental health an individual put themselves at risk of not living their ultimate quality of life.
(870) 601-1658 View (870) 601-1658
Photo of Laura Conley-Olsen, MD, Psychiatrist
Laura Conley-Olsen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Julie Harris, MNSc, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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 Jessica Wainwright, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Wainwright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72210
Not accepting new clients
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. I have ten years experience working in the healthcare field, working in diverse backgrounds in various settings including teaching hospitals, inpatient care, outpatient care and detox rehab. I consider the entire person and how they function within their social and cultural environment rather than simply a constellation of symptoms. I believes that the best treatment results from the bio-psycho-social approach to mental health.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. I have ten years experience working in the healthcare field, working in diverse backgrounds in various settings including teaching hospitals, inpatient care, outpatient care and detox rehab. I consider the entire person and how they function within their social and cultural environment rather than simply a constellation of symptoms. I believes that the best treatment results from the bio-psycho-social approach to mental health.
(501) 459-6551 View (501) 459-6551
Photo of Alisha McCool, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. 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. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. 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 Rhianna Harberson, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhianna Harberson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in all ages across the lifespan. I primarily treat Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Disruptive Behavior and Impulse Control, PTSD, Autism, and ADHD (no stimulants). I think it is important that clients understand that medications don't "fix" people and they do not teach skills. It is important for clients to know that my job is not to ever talk you into medications, but rather help to discuss the pros and cons to see how we can help benefit and better you.
I specialize in all ages across the lifespan. I primarily treat Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Disruptive Behavior and Impulse Control, PTSD, Autism, and ADHD (no stimulants). I think it is important that clients understand that medications don't "fix" people and they do not teach skills. It is important for clients to know that my job is not to ever talk you into medications, but rather help to discuss the pros and cons to see how we can help benefit and better you.
(501) 359-5981 View (501) 359-5981
Photo of Amanda Smith, MD, Psychiatrist
Amanda Smith
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Finding the right support on your mental health journey can feel overwhelming, but you've taken a brave step by being here. I'm Dr. Amanda Smith, a board-certified psychiatrist with a warm heart and a passion for helping adults like you navigate life's challenges. I have a special interest in Bipolar Disorder. However, my expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc.) Depression and mood disorders, Trauma and Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ADHD and Attention Disorders.
Finding the right support on your mental health journey can feel overwhelming, but you've taken a brave step by being here. I'm Dr. Amanda Smith, a board-certified psychiatrist with a warm heart and a passion for helping adults like you navigate life's challenges. I have a special interest in Bipolar Disorder. However, my expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc.) Depression and mood disorders, Trauma and Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ADHD and Attention Disorders.
(501) 456-4805 View (501) 456-4805

See more therapy options for 72207

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 72207

< 10

Psychiatrists in 72207 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
100% Women's Issues

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
100% Ambetter
50% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 72207 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 72207?

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.