Psychiatrists in 73072

Photo of Jake Johnson - Integral Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Integral Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norman, OK 73072
Choosing Dr. Jake Johnson (M.D.) at Integral Psychiatry, PLLC means opting for a streamlined and patient-focused approach to mental health care. As a practice that provides late-afternoon and weekend availability and both virtual and in-person appointments, we make it easy for you to focus solely on your mental health and well-being.
Choosing Dr. Jake Johnson (M.D.) at Integral Psychiatry, PLLC means opting for a streamlined and patient-focused approach to mental health care. As a practice that provides late-afternoon and weekend availability and both virtual and in-person appointments, we make it easy for you to focus solely on your mental health and well-being.
(405) 928-9438 View (405) 928-9438

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Abiodun Adeyiga, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abiodun Adeyiga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, who seeks compassionate, personalized mental health care. They want to understand their symptoms, learn coping strategies, and achieve stability and peace. Their goals include managing daily stress, improving relationships, and feeling empowered to live a fulfilling life. They’re motivated to explore evidence-based strategies, and they value a collaborative, culturally sensitive approach that addresses both their immediate concerns and long-term well-being.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, who seeks compassionate, personalized mental health care. They want to understand their symptoms, learn coping strategies, and achieve stability and peace. Their goals include managing daily stress, improving relationships, and feeling empowered to live a fulfilling life. They’re motivated to explore evidence-based strategies, and they value a collaborative, culturally sensitive approach that addresses both their immediate concerns and long-term well-being.
(405) 486-0375 View (405) 486-0375
Photo of Nicoline Lami Edie, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicoline Lami Edie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Welcome! I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders and issues concerning the LGBT community. Also, I work with addiction medicine and is committed to helping as many patients in need as I can. With patient safety in mind, I am more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage. Also, private pay is available to suit your needs as well. Why wait? Call us today!
Welcome! I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders and issues concerning the LGBT community. Also, I work with addiction medicine and is committed to helping as many patients in need as I can. With patient safety in mind, I am more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage. Also, private pay is available to suit your needs as well. Why wait? Call us today!
(405) 873-7130 View (405) 873-7130
Photo of Amy Boggs - Norman Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Norman Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norman, OK 73069
We know that you are a unique individual and cater our treatment to your specific needs. We treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Problems, Addiction, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, etc. We believe in lifestyle change and other research-supported interventions, well as medication and therapy. Our staff work together as a team and communicate with each other regarding treatment progress. We have three Psychiatrists, three Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and 6 counselors on staff. We treat ages 5 and older. We have counselors who specialize in addiction, trauma, grief, and one who does marital and family therapy.
We know that you are a unique individual and cater our treatment to your specific needs. We treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Problems, Addiction, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, etc. We believe in lifestyle change and other research-supported interventions, well as medication and therapy. Our staff work together as a team and communicate with each other regarding treatment progress. We have three Psychiatrists, three Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and 6 counselors on staff. We treat ages 5 and older. We have counselors who specialize in addiction, trauma, grief, and one who does marital and family therapy.
(405) 384-4408 View (405) 384-4408
Photo of Kendall Roberson, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kendall Roberson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma and looking for relief from overwhelming thoughts or mood swings? I’m here to provide practical tools and consistent support, helping you understand the root causes of these challenges. Together, we’ll work toward real growth—finding empowerment, confidence, and a sense of presence in your daily life. I offer a compassionate, collaborative approach to help you make lasting, positive changes in a safe and non-judgmental space.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma and looking for relief from overwhelming thoughts or mood swings? I’m here to provide practical tools and consistent support, helping you understand the root causes of these challenges. Together, we’ll work toward real growth—finding empowerment, confidence, and a sense of presence in your daily life. I offer a compassionate, collaborative approach to help you make lasting, positive changes in a safe and non-judgmental space.
(405) 342-4049 View (405) 342-4049
Photo of Teresa Miller, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Teresa Miller
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Teresa completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2007. She got her Bachelors of Science in Chemistry and Biology from Southern Nazarene University. Before joining Balance Women's Health, Teresa worked as a PA in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility since 2011. She has a special interest in treating women who struggle with PCOS, infertility, and other hormonal issues. Previous to her time in REI, she worked four years in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. She maintains professional membership in the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants.
Teresa completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2007. She got her Bachelors of Science in Chemistry and Biology from Southern Nazarene University. Before joining Balance Women's Health, Teresa worked as a PA in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility since 2011. She has a special interest in treating women who struggle with PCOS, infertility, and other hormonal issues. Previous to her time in REI, she worked four years in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. She maintains professional membership in the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants.
(405) 993-5279 View (405) 993-5279
Stephanie Martindale
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Hi, I’m Stephanie Martindale, a Physician Assistant at Tasel Health. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, I’m passionate about providing holistic, patient-centered care to individuals and families. My focus is on mental health, and I strive to help my patients navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding.
Hi, I’m Stephanie Martindale, a Physician Assistant at Tasel Health. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, I’m passionate about providing holistic, patient-centered care to individuals and families. My focus is on mental health, and I strive to help my patients navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding.
(405) 934-1681 View (405) 934-1681
Photo of Bracie Haworth, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Bracie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Bracie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
(918) 205-9420 View (918) 205-9420
Photo of Dr. Fadalia Kim - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(405) 784-5692 View (405) 784-5692
Photo of Mildred Blandamer - 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.
(918) 719-2801 View (918) 719-2801
Photo of Brandie Strange, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandie Strange
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have 10+ years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. As a dual-boarded NP, I feel strongly about leaning into my experiences in physical medicine as an adjunct to my psychiatry practice. I welcome adults 18+ with special population insight in military families (AF veteran), first responders, and foster care families.
I have 10+ years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. As a dual-boarded NP, I feel strongly about leaning into my experiences in physical medicine as an adjunct to my psychiatry practice. I welcome adults 18+ with special population insight in military families (AF veteran), first responders, and foster care families.
(405) 840-3793 View (405) 840-3793
Photo of Rachel Dalthorp - Ketamine Therapy at LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Ketamine Therapy at LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
LifeStance Health in Oklahoma is a provider of ketamine infusion therapy. Ketamine therapy is used in the treatment of several psychiatric disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. LifeStance Health in Oklahoma also provides nasal spray Spravato (esketamine), another therapeutic option for treatment-resistant depression.
LifeStance Health in Oklahoma is a provider of ketamine infusion therapy. Ketamine therapy is used in the treatment of several psychiatric disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. LifeStance Health in Oklahoma also provides nasal spray Spravato (esketamine), another therapeutic option for treatment-resistant depression.
(405) 927-5025 View (405) 927-5025
Photo of Rachel Dalthorp, MD, Psychiatrist
Rachel Dalthorp
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Dr. Rachel Dalthorp received her medical degree from the University Of Oklahoma College Of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a four year psychiatric residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center where she focused on developing expertise in the assessment and treatment of mood disorders related to the female reproductive cycle. Dr. Dalthorp completed specialized training in the treatment of female sexual disorders and the use of psychedelic medications to treat depression.
Dr. Rachel Dalthorp received her medical degree from the University Of Oklahoma College Of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a four year psychiatric residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center where she focused on developing expertise in the assessment and treatment of mood disorders related to the female reproductive cycle. Dr. Dalthorp completed specialized training in the treatment of female sexual disorders and the use of psychedelic medications to treat depression.
(405) 449-5265 View (405) 449-5265
Photo of Melanie Barrett, MD, Psychiatrist
Melanie Barrett
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Melanie Barrett received her medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine following undergraduate studies in Psychology at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, where she served as Chief Resident. She maintains board certification through the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. Dr. Barrett specializes in interventional treatments including Zulresso (brexanolone) for postpartum depression as well as Spravato (esketamine) and ketamine IV therapy for treatment resistant depression.
Dr. Melanie Barrett received her medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine following undergraduate studies in Psychology at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, where she served as Chief Resident. She maintains board certification through the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. Dr. Barrett specializes in interventional treatments including Zulresso (brexanolone) for postpartum depression as well as Spravato (esketamine) and ketamine IV therapy for treatment resistant depression.
(405) 645-6034 View (405) 645-6034
Photo of Prudencia Ijeoma, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prudencia Ijeoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs.
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs.
(405) 870-2980 View (405) 870-2980
Photo of Angie Osborn - UYM Clinic, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
UYM Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099
At Unwind Your Mind, we prioritize personalized, compassionate care that blends evidence-based psychiatric treatments with empathy. Our holistic approach combines, medication management and lifestyle changes to address both the psychological and physiological aspects of mental health. We create individualized treatment plans to support healing from within, fostering long-term balance. Our inclusive, affirming environment ensures all individuals—children and adults alike—feel valued, respected, and empowered in their mental health journey.
At Unwind Your Mind, we prioritize personalized, compassionate care that blends evidence-based psychiatric treatments with empathy. Our holistic approach combines, medication management and lifestyle changes to address both the psychological and physiological aspects of mental health. We create individualized treatment plans to support healing from within, fostering long-term balance. Our inclusive, affirming environment ensures all individuals—children and adults alike—feel valued, respected, and empowered in their mental health journey.
(405) 914-6634 View (405) 914-6634
Photo of Tasha R Preston - Oklahoma Integrated Care plc, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oklahoma Integrated Care plc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Aiming to provide timely, high-quality mental health care, Oklahoma Integrated Care, PLC. (OIC) has built a multidisciplinary community mental health team. We are a group of local mental healthcare providers with a passion for enriching lives and building a stronger community by helping to restore balance and sense of well-being to our patients. The professionals in our group treat different age groups and have varying specialties. Older adults face a different set of emotional challenges adjusting to life’s transitions such as retirement, illness, loss of spouse.
Aiming to provide timely, high-quality mental health care, Oklahoma Integrated Care, PLC. (OIC) has built a multidisciplinary community mental health team. We are a group of local mental healthcare providers with a passion for enriching lives and building a stronger community by helping to restore balance and sense of well-being to our patients. The professionals in our group treat different age groups and have varying specialties. Older adults face a different set of emotional challenges adjusting to life’s transitions such as retirement, illness, loss of spouse.
(580) 238-4277 View (580) 238-4277
Photo of Prudencia Ijeoma Tankeu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prudencia Ijeoma Tankeu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma, and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs. My approach to psychiatric care is warm, welcoming and free from judgment. I strive to provide high-quality care that nurtures the mind, body and spirit. If you're new to psychiatric care or are interesting in seeing a new provider, I invite you to come in and let's work together to create a treatment plan that will help you become your best self."
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma, and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs. My approach to psychiatric care is warm, welcoming and free from judgment. I strive to provide high-quality care that nurtures the mind, body and spirit. If you're new to psychiatric care or are interesting in seeing a new provider, I invite you to come in and let's work together to create a treatment plan that will help you become your best self."
(918) 205-9806 View (918) 205-9806
Photo of Dr. Sean Whelan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sean Whelan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dr. Sean Whelan is now part of the Resilient team and is accepting new patients. His ideal patient ranges from 18-79 years old and are requesting assistance with varying disorders such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief, or Bipolar; however, they are interested in the least amount of medication/dosage to maintain stability and optimum functioning. His patient's are desiring to make lifestyle changes to optimize their health such as maintaining a certain level of dedication to sleep, exercise, and/or re-evaluate relationships that are not serving them.
Dr. Sean Whelan is now part of the Resilient team and is accepting new patients. His ideal patient ranges from 18-79 years old and are requesting assistance with varying disorders such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief, or Bipolar; however, they are interested in the least amount of medication/dosage to maintain stability and optimum functioning. His patient's are desiring to make lifestyle changes to optimize their health such as maintaining a certain level of dedication to sleep, exercise, and/or re-evaluate relationships that are not serving them.
(405) 251-6697 View (405) 251-6697
Photo of Cassandra Gentry, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Cassandra Gentry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Cassie completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2005. She received her undergraduate degree in Microbiology from the University of Oklahoma in 2002 and has previously worked in primary care and urgent care. She has been working in psychiatry since 2018 and has a special interest in interventional psychiatry. Cassie maintains a professional membership in the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants and the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
Cassie completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2005. She received her undergraduate degree in Microbiology from the University of Oklahoma in 2002 and has previously worked in primary care and urgent care. She has been working in psychiatry since 2018 and has a special interest in interventional psychiatry. Cassie maintains a professional membership in the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants and the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
(405) 450-7634 View (405) 450-7634

See more therapy options for 73072

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 73072

< 10

Psychiatrists in 73072 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Anger Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 73072 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 73072?

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.