Psychiatrists in 72210

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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 Chloe Ward, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chloe Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
Chloe (Cyd) Ward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has provided clinical services for adults with serious mental illnesses as well as for individuals with traumatic stressors or difficulty managing anxiety and depression. She understands that being diagnosed with a serious mental illness doesn’t have to define you, but rather is just one component of who you are. She believes in addressing the root cause of an illness whether that be an addiction, childhood trauma, or wellness concerns. Cyd is an empathic listener and cares deeply for her patients, colleagues, friends, and family.
Chloe (Cyd) Ward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has provided clinical services for adults with serious mental illnesses as well as for individuals with traumatic stressors or difficulty managing anxiety and depression. She understands that being diagnosed with a serious mental illness doesn’t have to define you, but rather is just one component of who you are. She believes in addressing the root cause of an illness whether that be an addiction, childhood trauma, or wellness concerns. Cyd is an empathic listener and cares deeply for her patients, colleagues, friends, and family.
(501) 382-8379 View (501) 382-8379
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 Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
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 Nancy L Mitchell, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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 Lindsay Van Parys, MNSc, CPNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsay Van Parys
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, CPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems and substance misuse. I pride myself on making patients feel comfortable and heard. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals. Each client gets my work cell number as well.
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems and substance misuse. I pride myself on making patients feel comfortable and heard. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals. Each client gets my work cell number as well.
(501) 300-9479 View (501) 300-9479
Photo of Todd M Clements, MD, Psychiatrist
Todd M Clements
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I'm not your typical psychiatrist; I don't smoke cigars, have a beard, or wear a bow-tie. I see pre-teens, teenagers, and adults for psychiatric evaluations, substance abuse evaluations, medication management, and counseling. I do testing and evaluations for ADHD and I'm also board certified in Addiction Medicine. I see patients with a wide variety of issues. Some of the most common ones I work with are listed here to the right.
I'm not your typical psychiatrist; I don't smoke cigars, have a beard, or wear a bow-tie. I see pre-teens, teenagers, and adults for psychiatric evaluations, substance abuse evaluations, medication management, and counseling. I do testing and evaluations for ADHD and I'm also board certified in Addiction Medicine. I see patients with a wide variety of issues. Some of the most common ones I work with are listed here to the right.
(870) 729-7267 View (870) 729-7267
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 Brandi Yarberry - New Hope Child Psychiatry , DO, Psychiatrist
New Hope Child Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
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
Photo of Richard Flanigin, MD, Psychiatrist
Richard Flanigin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
(501) 669-3655 View (501) 669-3655
Photo of Ryan Nikolai Leslie, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Nikolai Leslie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My practice was born out of a desire to escape the transactional nature of modern corporate medicine and provide authentic, person-centered care that is not driven by metrics and checkboxes. I wanted the freedom to build a practice with the provider-patient relationship placed at its center. I truly take the time to get to know my patients and listen to their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment. My practice provides a safe space where all persons, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, are welcomed with open arms and treated with dignity.
My practice was born out of a desire to escape the transactional nature of modern corporate medicine and provide authentic, person-centered care that is not driven by metrics and checkboxes. I wanted the freedom to build a practice with the provider-patient relationship placed at its center. I truly take the time to get to know my patients and listen to their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment. My practice provides a safe space where all persons, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, are welcomed with open arms and treated with dignity.
(501) 381-5237 View (501) 381-5237
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
Photo of Stephanie Burnett - Salt + Light Holistic Health , APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Salt + Light Holistic Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C
Verified Verified
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 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 Kristin Kiernan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Kiernan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022
Welcome to a safe space where your mental health and well-being is my top priority. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve a brighter, more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based practices to guide you towards mental wellness. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I am your trusted partner in overcoming life's challenges. We all struggle, but you are not alone!
Welcome to a safe space where your mental health and well-being is my top priority. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve a brighter, more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based practices to guide you towards mental wellness. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I am your trusted partner in overcoming life's challenges. We all struggle, but you are not alone!
(501) 443-2653 View (501) 443-2653
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 Rhonda Mattox, MD, Psychiatrist
Rhonda Mattox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Mattox specializes in helping people "Rise, Shine, & Transform" after a fall. It's tempting to ruminate and retreat after life's great disappointments (divorce, death, downsize & other devastating blows.) But Dr. Mattox helps you get off the sidelines and get back into the game of life. She serves as a guide to facilitate the process through coaching. Some think they "should be stronger" or that it's weak to invest in coaching. But the truth is that it's not weak to seek feedback. Why do you think Tiger Woods, Venus Williams, and Michael Jordan have coaches? Why do you think Fortune 500 companies have advisory boards? Results!
Dr. Mattox specializes in helping people "Rise, Shine, & Transform" after a fall. It's tempting to ruminate and retreat after life's great disappointments (divorce, death, downsize & other devastating blows.) But Dr. Mattox helps you get off the sidelines and get back into the game of life. She serves as a guide to facilitate the process through coaching. Some think they "should be stronger" or that it's weak to invest in coaching. But the truth is that it's not weak to seek feedback. Why do you think Tiger Woods, Venus Williams, and Michael Jordan have coaches? Why do you think Fortune 500 companies have advisory boards? Results!
(501) 322-8165 View (501) 322-8165
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 Shalunda Sasser, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shalunda Sasser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Shalunda Sasser- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice. I utilize an integrative approach to patient care, considering all factors that influence health and wellness including the mind, spirit, and body, as well as the community.
Shalunda Sasser- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice. I utilize an integrative approach to patient care, considering all factors that influence health and wellness including the mind, spirit, and body, as well as the community.
(870) 606-3470 View (870) 606-3470

See more therapy options for 72210

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 72210

< 10

Psychiatrists in 72210 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 72210 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 72210?

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.