Psychiatrists in 73110

Photo of Courtney Bowler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Courtney Bowler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Midwest City, OK 73110
Hello Oklahoma! How are you feeling? Are you exhausted but can’t rest, holding everything together while feeling like you’re falling apart? Maybe anxiety, depression, or trauma have been tagging along far too long and you're finally ready to feel better. At Halidom Psychiatric Health & Wellness, we offer thoughtful, evidence-based care for individuals of all ages and across all psychiatric diagnoses. From medication management to psychiatric evaluations, Halidom offers psychiatric care from an integrative approach
Hello Oklahoma! How are you feeling? Are you exhausted but can’t rest, holding everything together while feeling like you’re falling apart? Maybe anxiety, depression, or trauma have been tagging along far too long and you're finally ready to feel better. At Halidom Psychiatric Health & Wellness, we offer thoughtful, evidence-based care for individuals of all ages and across all psychiatric diagnoses. From medication management to psychiatric evaluations, Halidom offers psychiatric care from an integrative approach
(405) 876-4451 View (405) 876-4451
Photo of Abiodun Adeyiga - Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Midwest City, OK 73110
My name is Abiodun (Abby) Adeyiga. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving the Oklahoma City and surrounding areas. At Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services, we have many years of experience in providing comprehensive care to acute and chronic mental health patients. We have expertise in creating individualized treatment plans, administering medications, performing mental health assessments and psychological testing. We collaborate strongly with healthcare professionals and other disciplines to ensure quality patient care.
My name is Abiodun (Abby) Adeyiga. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving the Oklahoma City and surrounding areas. At Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services, we have many years of experience in providing comprehensive care to acute and chronic mental health patients. We have expertise in creating individualized treatment plans, administering medications, performing mental health assessments and psychological testing. We collaborate strongly with healthcare professionals and other disciplines to ensure quality patient care.
(405) 731-3329 View (405) 731-3329
Photo of Keyanndra Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Keyanndra Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Taking the first step toward mental health treatment can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in medication management for children, adolescents, and adults, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I believe that every patient deserves to be heard, valued, and actively involved in their treatment. Mental health care should be a collaborative process, where your concerns, goals, and experiences guide the treatment plan.
Taking the first step toward mental health treatment can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in medication management for children, adolescents, and adults, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I believe that every patient deserves to be heard, valued, and actively involved in their treatment. Mental health care should be a collaborative process, where your concerns, goals, and experiences guide the treatment plan.
(405) 784-5925 View (405) 784-5925

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Mark Holsey, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Mark Holsey
Psychiatrist, DO
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Please note: I am able to see new patients within 1-2 weeks. Hi there! I am a board-certified psychiatry physician, specializing in the management of depression and anxiety. My ideal patient is an adult that is seeking compassionate mental healthcare, and motivated to pursue relief from persistent symptoms that impact their daily functioning. They need a supportive and non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies. Their goals include reducing symptom severity and enhancing overall quality of life.
Please note: I am able to see new patients within 1-2 weeks. Hi there! I am a board-certified psychiatry physician, specializing in the management of depression and anxiety. My ideal patient is an adult that is seeking compassionate mental healthcare, and motivated to pursue relief from persistent symptoms that impact their daily functioning. They need a supportive and non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies. Their goals include reducing symptom severity and enhancing overall quality of life.
(405) 497-8218 View (405) 497-8218
Photo of Dr. Sean Whelan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sean Whelan
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73142
He provides Economic Relief Pricing Dr. Sean Whelan delivers premium, client-focused psychiatric care marked by clinical excellence, discretion, and direct access (no gatekeepers, no delays). He has over 20 years of experience. Specializing in medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and bipolar disorder. Dr. Whelan offers extremely competitive, transparent pricing and highly personalized support. His ideal age from is from 13-79 years old. He prioritizes expertise, responsiveness, and a seamless, elevated care experience. Read his reviews at Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, PLLC.
He provides Economic Relief Pricing Dr. Sean Whelan delivers premium, client-focused psychiatric care marked by clinical excellence, discretion, and direct access (no gatekeepers, no delays). He has over 20 years of experience. Specializing in medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and bipolar disorder. Dr. Whelan offers extremely competitive, transparent pricing and highly personalized support. His ideal age from is from 13-79 years old. He prioritizes expertise, responsiveness, and a seamless, elevated care experience. Read his reviews at Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, PLLC.
(405) 251-6697 View (405) 251-6697
Photo of Alyssa Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Alyssa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Alyssa Smith, APRN-PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Reeder Psychiatry specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients of all ages with psychiatric mental illnesses. Alyssa received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Eastern Kentucky where she graduated as a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Theta Tau with a 4.0 GPA. Alyssa has over 13 years experience in the medical field with a background in surgery, administration, pharmacy, and psychiatry.
Alyssa Smith, APRN-PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Reeder Psychiatry specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients of all ages with psychiatric mental illnesses. Alyssa received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Eastern Kentucky where she graduated as a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Theta Tau with a 4.0 GPA. Alyssa has over 13 years experience in the medical field with a background in surgery, administration, pharmacy, and psychiatry.
(405) 420-6646 View (405) 420-6646
Photo of Angie Osborn - UYM Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
UYM Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
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 David Linden, Psychiatrist, MD
David Linden
Psychiatrist, MD
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
My mission is to help families find solutions to life's challenges & assist in finding healthier ways to achieve a happier life. Specializing in affordable psychiatry & pain management services,I'll work with your family to do this. I also work with chronic pain patients understanding that 30-40% of chronic pain patients are also dealing with depression & the side effects of constant pain. We will discuss & work through those deep issues that may be at the core of your chronic pain.
My mission is to help families find solutions to life's challenges & assist in finding healthier ways to achieve a happier life. Specializing in affordable psychiatry & pain management services,I'll work with your family to do this. I also work with chronic pain patients understanding that 30-40% of chronic pain patients are also dealing with depression & the side effects of constant pain. We will discuss & work through those deep issues that may be at the core of your chronic pain.
(405) 840-1999 View (405) 840-1999
Photo of Jessica Collett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, SANE-A, SANE-P
Jessica Collett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, SANE-A, SANE-P
1 Endorsed
Norman, OK 73069
Prioritizing lifestyle interventions and medication management, I strive to provide the best psychiatric care that is both patient-centered and holistic. Specialties include providing medication assisted treatment (buprenorphine/naloxone, naltrexone, etc.) for substance use disorders, Gender-Affirming Healthcare (HRT and non-HRT therapies), Contraception/STI Testing, and treatment of psychiatric conditions for all folks across the lifespan.
Prioritizing lifestyle interventions and medication management, I strive to provide the best psychiatric care that is both patient-centered and holistic. Specialties include providing medication assisted treatment (buprenorphine/naloxone, naltrexone, etc.) for substance use disorders, Gender-Affirming Healthcare (HRT and non-HRT therapies), Contraception/STI Testing, and treatment of psychiatric conditions for all folks across the lifespan.
(405) 497-7395 View (405) 497-7395
Photo of Judy Wagga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Judy Wagga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
I am a mother of many children, and a mental health nurse practitioner. From an early age, I had a passion for helping people find their purpose and live to their full potential. This passion led her to pursue a career in nursing and mental health care. Over the course of her career, Judy has worked in a variety of mental health settings, including at a jail, private and public hospitals, and a private clinic. Her experience has given her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals struggling with mental health issues and has fueled her desire to provide compassionate care and supportive therapy.
I am a mother of many children, and a mental health nurse practitioner. From an early age, I had a passion for helping people find their purpose and live to their full potential. This passion led her to pursue a career in nursing and mental health care. Over the course of her career, Judy has worked in a variety of mental health settings, including at a jail, private and public hospitals, and a private clinic. Her experience has given her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals struggling with mental health issues and has fueled her desire to provide compassionate care and supportive therapy.
(918) 708-9850 View (918) 708-9850
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha - Wholesome Clinic -Integrated Psychiatry & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Wholesome Clinic -Integrated Psychiatry & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. I'm Stephanie Ukoha, a Doctor of Nursing Practice dual-board certified as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Together, we can explore strategies and interventions to manage distressing mental health symptoms or issues and improve your quality of life.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. I'm Stephanie Ukoha, a Doctor of Nursing Practice dual-board certified as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Together, we can explore strategies and interventions to manage distressing mental health symptoms or issues and improve your quality of life.
(214) 466-7630 View (214) 466-7630
Photo of Nicoline Edie - Reliance Mental Health and Functional Medicine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, FMA-CP
Reliance Mental Health and Functional Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, FMA-CP
1 Endorsed
Bethany, OK 73008
Welcome! We are a mental health and primary care clinic that serves 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, we work with addiction medicine and are committed to helping as many patients in need as we can. With patient safety in mind, we are more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy and referrals. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage and clinic hours.
Welcome! We are a mental health and primary care clinic that serves 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, we work with addiction medicine and are committed to helping as many patients in need as we can. With patient safety in mind, we are more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy and referrals. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage and clinic hours.
(405) 449-5836 View (405) 449-5836
Photo of Tasha R Preston - Oklahoma Integrated Care plc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Oklahoma Integrated Care plc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
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 Luci A Gratch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Luci A Gratch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience in healthcare. I hold dual certifications in Acute Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health. I earned my initial certification in Acute Care from the University of Texas at Arlington and later pursued additional training to specialize in psychiatry. My clinical interests focus on trauma and complex PTSD. I am deeply committed to helping individuals gain a better understanding of their mental health and develop healthier, more productive coping strategies.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience in healthcare. I hold dual certifications in Acute Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health. I earned my initial certification in Acute Care from the University of Texas at Arlington and later pursued additional training to specialize in psychiatry. My clinical interests focus on trauma and complex PTSD. I am deeply committed to helping individuals gain a better understanding of their mental health and develop healthier, more productive coping strategies.
(405) 554-5839 View (405) 554-5839
Photo of Brenda G James - Psychiatry & More, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Psychiatry & More, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Psychiatry & More provides comprehensive mental health treatment plans for patients ages 6 and older. Staff includes a mixture of psychiatrists, mental health certified nurse practitioners, psychologists and licensed therapists.
Psychiatry & More provides comprehensive mental health treatment plans for patients ages 6 and older. Staff includes a mixture of psychiatrists, mental health certified nurse practitioners, psychologists and licensed therapists.
(405) 768-4904 View (405) 768-4904
Photo of Karon Potter, Physician Assistant, MHS, PA
Karon Potter
Physician Assistant, MHS, PA
Edmond, OK 73034
Karon believes in a combined approach of lifestyle modifications and traditional medicine. She has a special interest in women’s mental health, the connection of mental and physical wellness, and Binge Eating Disorder. Karon strives to create a long-lasting partnership with each patient to help them achieve their best physical and mental health.
Karon believes in a combined approach of lifestyle modifications and traditional medicine. She has a special interest in women’s mental health, the connection of mental and physical wellness, and Binge Eating Disorder. Karon strives to create a long-lasting partnership with each patient to help them achieve their best physical and mental health.
(405) 554-9663 View (405) 554-9663
At MIRCS, the Psychiatrists emphasizes in the use of evidence-based medicine, incorporating a psychotherapeutic, psychosocial, psychopharmacological, and holistic approach. We provide Cat-amine and Spravato treatment.All our patients will be evaluated by trained Psychiatrists who are qualified to treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders . We conduct evaluations via telemedicine and Face-Face to assess for possible psychiatric conditions. Based on the visit, we will develop an appropriate and potential pharmacologic treatment plan. We aim to bring compassionate, dedicated, individualized and exceptionally high quality care.
At MIRCS, the Psychiatrists emphasizes in the use of evidence-based medicine, incorporating a psychotherapeutic, psychosocial, psychopharmacological, and holistic approach. We provide Cat-amine and Spravato treatment.All our patients will be evaluated by trained Psychiatrists who are qualified to treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders . We conduct evaluations via telemedicine and Face-Face to assess for possible psychiatric conditions. Based on the visit, we will develop an appropriate and potential pharmacologic treatment plan. We aim to bring compassionate, dedicated, individualized and exceptionally high quality care.
(405) 583-7579 View (405) 583-7579
Photo of Dr. Fadalia Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Fadalia Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Moore, OK 73160
Dr. Fadalia Kim is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Kim assists in initial assessments to determine the patient's need for treatment. If treatment is needed, Dr. Kim provides medication management and assists in a treatment team approach for wrap around services. Outside of work, Dr. Kim enjoys gardening, baking, and going to Thunder games. She spends most of her free time at her kids' sporting events, which is her number one joyful activity.
Dr. Fadalia Kim is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Kim assists in initial assessments to determine the patient's need for treatment. If treatment is needed, Dr. Kim provides medication management and assists in a treatment team approach for wrap around services. Outside of work, Dr. Kim enjoys gardening, baking, and going to Thunder games. She spends most of her free time at her kids' sporting events, which is her number one joyful activity.
(405) 584-6356 View (405) 584-6356
Photo of Teresa Miller, Physician Assistant, MHS, PA
Teresa Miller
Physician Assistant, MHS, PA
Moore, OK 73160
Teresa, her husband, and four boys live in Bethany. She enjoys traveling, reading, long walks, and spending time with family and friends.
Teresa, her husband, and four boys live in Bethany. She enjoys traveling, reading, long walks, and spending time with family and friends.
(405) 993-5279 View (405) 993-5279
Photo of Relindis Tita, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Relindis Tita
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, mood disorder, OCD, PTSD, issues concerning LGBTQ community, and substance use disorders. I enjoy my career and am always eager to learn and see many individuals recover from these disorders. My career goal is to give the best nursing services at each capacity and level. I have the knowledge and expertise to guide you toward a happier life. I can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, mood disorder, OCD, PTSD, issues concerning LGBTQ community, and substance use disorders. I enjoy my career and am always eager to learn and see many individuals recover from these disorders. My career goal is to give the best nursing services at each capacity and level. I have the knowledge and expertise to guide you toward a happier life. I can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
(405) 925-1905 View (405) 925-1905

See more therapy options for 73110

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 73110

< 10

Psychiatrists in 73110 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Anger Management
100% Autism
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Optum
100% United Medical Resources (UMR)

How Psychiatrists in 73110 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 73110?

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.