Psychiatrists in 72601

Photo of Jessica Gutting, APRN, MSNC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Gutting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSNC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, AR 72601
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
(870) 558-6822 View (870) 558-6822
Photo of Mark Andersen, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark Andersen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
(870) 340-2636 View (870) 340-2636
Photo of Derainey Rene Smith - Buffalo River Clinic, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Buffalo River Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Providing psychiatric services for adults and children. Treating a variety of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Very often after developing a successful treatment plan we hear “I feel like I have gotten my life back.”
Providing psychiatric services for adults and children. Treating a variety of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Very often after developing a successful treatment plan we hear “I feel like I have gotten my life back.”
(870) 259-5108 View (870) 259-5108

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Zack Coco, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zack Coco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
(501) 238-8812 View (501) 238-8812
Photo of Heather R Hodgson - Integrated Wellness and Mental Health, LLC, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrated Wellness and Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Springdale, AR 72762
We treat the Mental Health needs of adult and geriatric patients.
We treat the Mental Health needs of adult and geriatric patients.
(479) 333-2145 View (479) 333-2145
Photo of Kristy Lawson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristy Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello. My name is Kristy Lawson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. With over 20 years of experience in mental healthcare, my expertise encompasses substance abuse, geriatrics, adolescents, and adults, fueled by patients' wellness and goal attainment. Mental health is an important element in maintaining a holistic approach to everyday lifestyle. However, the stresses of physical and emotional changes, illness, providing care, or suffering loss can bring about feelings of anxiety, grief, and depression.
Hello. My name is Kristy Lawson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. With over 20 years of experience in mental healthcare, my expertise encompasses substance abuse, geriatrics, adolescents, and adults, fueled by patients' wellness and goal attainment. Mental health is an important element in maintaining a holistic approach to everyday lifestyle. However, the stresses of physical and emotional changes, illness, providing care, or suffering loss can bring about feelings of anxiety, grief, and depression.
(870) 290-3432 View (870) 290-3432
Photo of Melissa Bell, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
Hi, I'm Melissa. I'm a Nurse Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry & Family Practice. I practice in Conway AR at Christian Perspective Counseling (and online throughout Arkansas). I have a relational practice style that encourages open and professional communication, with goals of providing individualized and compassionate care. I believe that shame dies when shared in safe spaces. My clients will feel heard, believed, and valued for who they were, who they are, and who they want to be.
Hi, I'm Melissa. I'm a Nurse Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry & Family Practice. I practice in Conway AR at Christian Perspective Counseling (and online throughout Arkansas). I have a relational practice style that encourages open and professional communication, with goals of providing individualized and compassionate care. I believe that shame dies when shared in safe spaces. My clients will feel heard, believed, and valued for who they were, who they are, and who they want to be.
(501) 322-6361 View (501) 322-6361
Photo of Dr. Charla Watkins, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Dr. Charla Watkins
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and grief. I also provide EMDR therapy which is excellent for recovery of trauma. I provide psychotherapy/counseling and medication management individualized for each patient in a safe and therapeutic environment that promotes healing and thriving.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and grief. I also provide EMDR therapy which is excellent for recovery of trauma. I provide psychotherapy/counseling and medication management individualized for each patient in a safe and therapeutic environment that promotes healing and thriving.
(479) 446-6283 View (479) 446-6283
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 Ashley Herren, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Herren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72901
I am filled with understanding, compassion, and non-judgmental thought processes. We all need help, support, understanding, and empowerment when we feel like we are sinking. I can provide that through brief psychotherapy and medication management of various mental health diagnosis. I do not want anyone suffering in silence or feeling alone and unsupported. The stigma with mental health must end and if you are in need of help, I will be happy to work with you. Together we can achieve Mind and Body Wellness.
I am filled with understanding, compassion, and non-judgmental thought processes. We all need help, support, understanding, and empowerment when we feel like we are sinking. I can provide that through brief psychotherapy and medication management of various mental health diagnosis. I do not want anyone suffering in silence or feeling alone and unsupported. The stigma with mental health must end and if you are in need of help, I will be happy to work with you. Together we can achieve Mind and Body Wellness.
(479) 888-9586 View (479) 888-9586
Photo of Jahnneliz Jones, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jahnneliz Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lowell, AR 72745
I know that seeking care can be a daunting step. Finding a provider that one feels at ease and comfortable with discussing the stressors causing distress in ones everyday life isn’t easy and we are not always one provider fits all. I aim to include you throughout the process of healing, including setting goals with treatment throughout the time we are working together. I understand how hard it can be to not get in contact with your provider when so many changes can be occurring. I provide my email to patients and hope to help them feel at ease if symptoms worsen or concerns arise in between scheduled appointments.
I know that seeking care can be a daunting step. Finding a provider that one feels at ease and comfortable with discussing the stressors causing distress in ones everyday life isn’t easy and we are not always one provider fits all. I aim to include you throughout the process of healing, including setting goals with treatment throughout the time we are working together. I understand how hard it can be to not get in contact with your provider when so many changes can be occurring. I provide my email to patients and hope to help them feel at ease if symptoms worsen or concerns arise in between scheduled appointments.
(479) 348-3317 View (479) 348-3317
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
Photo of Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(501) 459-3138 View (501) 459-3138
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 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 Melinda Marie Justice, PMHNP-, BC-, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melinda Marie Justice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC-, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dedicated nursing professional committed to providing support and empathy to my patients and their families. I support and encourage open communication with patients, families, and other providers. My approach to care is centered on creating a nurturing environment where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. I believe empathy is the cornerstone of patient care, enabling me to connect with my patients on a deeper level and address their emotional, psychological, and physical needs. After receiving my care, patients should hope to experience a profound sense of safety, understanding, and value.
I am a dedicated nursing professional committed to providing support and empathy to my patients and their families. I support and encourage open communication with patients, families, and other providers. My approach to care is centered on creating a nurturing environment where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. I believe empathy is the cornerstone of patient care, enabling me to connect with my patients on a deeper level and address their emotional, psychological, and physical needs. After receiving my care, patients should hope to experience a profound sense of safety, understanding, and value.
(479) 310-5855 View (479) 310-5855
Photo of Lauren Nguyen, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental illness who is looking to improve their quality of life and overall wellness. It is someone who needs help with diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and is willing to be open and honest about their symptoms and progress.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental illness who is looking to improve their quality of life and overall wellness. It is someone who needs help with diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and is willing to be open and honest about their symptoms and progress.
(479) 309-1060 View (479) 309-1060
Photo of Stephen Patrick Sweeney, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen Patrick Sweeney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72704
I am a compassionate and dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a rich background in healthcare. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings, including Neurosurgical Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, where I became well-versed not only in psychiatry but also in neurology and critical care medicine. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression, among many other conditions.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a rich background in healthcare. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings, including Neurosurgical Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, where I became well-versed not only in psychiatry but also in neurology and critical care medicine. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression, among many other conditions.
(479) 269-1721 View (479) 269-1721
Photo of Abigail Speights Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abigail Speights Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Abigail has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, both psychiatric and medical. As an experienced healthcare provider, Abigail utilizes her 8 years of experience to assist her patients in improving their quality of life. Abigail provides medication management. It is her goal to help identify the root causes of her patient’s current symptoms by extensive lab testing, ordering genetic testing, and a thorough evaluation. Abigail has developed a referral network with trusted therapists when ongoing therapy is needed. Abigail believes that working together as a team is the best approach to gain successful outcomes for her patients.
Abigail has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, both psychiatric and medical. As an experienced healthcare provider, Abigail utilizes her 8 years of experience to assist her patients in improving their quality of life. Abigail provides medication management. It is her goal to help identify the root causes of her patient’s current symptoms by extensive lab testing, ordering genetic testing, and a thorough evaluation. Abigail has developed a referral network with trusted therapists when ongoing therapy is needed. Abigail believes that working together as a team is the best approach to gain successful outcomes for her patients.
(318) 558-8303 View (318) 558-8303
Photo of Savannah Marie Hall, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Savannah Marie Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Through my psychiatric training, I learned about my own triggers and how to process childhood trauma; healing I didn't know I needed. I say this only to show I understand life can be hard. I'm not here to judge, but to meet patients where they are. I offer support, empathy, and wisdom to help them find healing and ways to improve their own mental health. I consider it a privilege to partner with my patients and to be trusted as a provider with something as important as mental health and I don't take that job lightly. When not providing exceptional patient care, Savannah enjoys spending time outdoors, as well as crafting.
Through my psychiatric training, I learned about my own triggers and how to process childhood trauma; healing I didn't know I needed. I say this only to show I understand life can be hard. I'm not here to judge, but to meet patients where they are. I offer support, empathy, and wisdom to help them find healing and ways to improve their own mental health. I consider it a privilege to partner with my patients and to be trusted as a provider with something as important as mental health and I don't take that job lightly. When not providing exceptional patient care, Savannah enjoys spending time outdoors, as well as crafting.
(479) 999-1889 View (479) 999-1889

See more therapy options for 72601

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 72601

< 10

Psychiatrists in 72601 who prioritize treating:

100% Psychosis
100% Medication Management
67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Grief
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare
100% United Medical Resources (UMR)

How Psychiatrists in 72601 see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 72601?

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.