Psychiatrists in 73117

Photo of Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide in Oklahoma. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide in Oklahoma. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(405) 674-4082 View (405) 674-4082

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Heather Rogers, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norman, OK 73069
Heather Rogers is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Summit Health and Wellness Center in Norman. With a strong passion for mental health advocacy and a focus on patient well-being, Heather specializes in delivering personalized psychiatric treatment across all age groups, from children to adults. She leverages her family medicine and inpatient psychotherapy background to adopt a comprehensive and empathetic approach to mental health care. She seamlessly blends evidence-based practices with a holistic outlook, acknowledging the crucial interplay between mind, body, and spirit in the pursuit of optimal mental health.
Heather Rogers is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Summit Health and Wellness Center in Norman. With a strong passion for mental health advocacy and a focus on patient well-being, Heather specializes in delivering personalized psychiatric treatment across all age groups, from children to adults. She leverages her family medicine and inpatient psychotherapy background to adopt a comprehensive and empathetic approach to mental health care. She seamlessly blends evidence-based practices with a holistic outlook, acknowledging the crucial interplay between mind, body, and spirit in the pursuit of optimal mental health.
(405) 504-0461 View (405) 504-0461
Photo of Brooke Thompson Peyton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brooke Thompson Peyton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I provide compassionate, thoughtful and individualized care and will work together with you to help you improve your mental and emotional well being.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I provide compassionate, thoughtful and individualized care and will work together with you to help you improve your mental and emotional well being.
(405) 369-8860 View (405) 369-8860
Photo of Judy Wagga, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judy Wagga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Judy Wagga is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over nine years of experience in psychiatric nursing including behavioral health, rehabilitation, addiction, jail nursing and community hospital settings. She is currently working with children, youth and adults to manage, prescribe medications and support patients and their families. Judy has excellent communication skills, is a detail oriented, personable professional.
Judy Wagga is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over nine years of experience in psychiatric nursing including behavioral health, rehabilitation, addiction, jail nursing and community hospital settings. She is currently working with children, youth and adults to manage, prescribe medications and support patients and their families. Judy has excellent communication skills, is a detail oriented, personable professional.
(918) 708-9850 View (918) 708-9850
Photo of Elizabeth Osinakachi Umemba - Elite Touch Behavioral Health Clinic Pllc, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elite Touch Behavioral Health Clinic Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Elite Touch Behavioral Health Clinic is a family-oriented clinic, offering mental health services through telehealth. It was established to support clients and their families with some mental health challenges. Our mission is to help our clients improve health and quality of life by providing outstanding Affordable care, including a thorough assessment, treatment, and education. Our vision is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services to our clients, empowering them and contributing to the growth of the community.
Elite Touch Behavioral Health Clinic is a family-oriented clinic, offering mental health services through telehealth. It was established to support clients and their families with some mental health challenges. Our mission is to help our clients improve health and quality of life by providing outstanding Affordable care, including a thorough assessment, treatment, and education. Our vision is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services to our clients, empowering them and contributing to the growth of the community.
(469) 966-8103 View (469) 966-8103
Photo of Abiodun Adeyiga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abiodun Adeyiga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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 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 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.
(918) 303-7711 View (918) 303-7711
Photo of Abiodun Adeyiga - Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
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 Ifeoma Ogbalu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ifeoma Ogbalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed to assess, diagnose and treat patients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. I am not just passionate about treating my patients, but I advocate and walk alongside my clients to help them reach their optimum level of functioning and maintain a balanced work, family, and personal lifestyle.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed to assess, diagnose and treat patients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. I am not just passionate about treating my patients, but I advocate and walk alongside my clients to help them reach their optimum level of functioning and maintain a balanced work, family, and personal lifestyle.
(918) 233-8977 View (918) 233-8977
Photo of Karon Potter, PA, Physician Assistant
Karon Potter
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73034
Karon Potter PA-C, RD, CSOWM, CDE graduated with her Master of Health Sciences with Distinction in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2016. Prior to PA school she received a Bachelor and Master's in nutrition from Texas Tech University. Karon is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and a Certified Diabetes Educator. Before joining LifeStance Karon worked for an Oklahoma City health system developing a comprehensive medical weight management program.
Karon Potter PA-C, RD, CSOWM, CDE graduated with her Master of Health Sciences with Distinction in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2016. Prior to PA school she received a Bachelor and Master's in nutrition from Texas Tech University. Karon is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and a Certified Diabetes Educator. Before joining LifeStance Karon worked for an Oklahoma City health system developing a comprehensive medical weight management program.
(405) 554-9663 View (405) 554-9663
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 Natalie Evans, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73034
Natalie Evans, PMHNP Natalie Evans is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at OU Health Sciences Center and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at UT Health Sciences Center. Natalie believes that recovery is the goal of treatment and should be a holistic approach that strengthens all domains of a person's life. She feels care is best provided when provider and client engage in treatment as a team. In her spare time, Natalie enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with friends and family.
Natalie Evans, PMHNP Natalie Evans is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at OU Health Sciences Center and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at UT Health Sciences Center. Natalie believes that recovery is the goal of treatment and should be a holistic approach that strengthens all domains of a person's life. She feels care is best provided when provider and client engage in treatment as a team. In her spare time, Natalie enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with friends and family.
(405) 395-4353 View (405) 395-4353
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
Photo of Audrey Spear, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Audrey Spear
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Audrey Donovan, PMHNP Audrey Donovan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Bachelor s Degree in Biology from the University of Central Oklahoma, a Bachelor s Degree in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma and a Master s Degree in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Midwestern State University.
Audrey Donovan, PMHNP Audrey Donovan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Bachelor s Degree in Biology from the University of Central Oklahoma, a Bachelor s Degree in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma and a Master s Degree in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Midwestern State University.
(855) 743-0911 View (855) 743-0911
Photo of Jillian Pollard, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jillian Pollard
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Edmond, OK 73034
Jillian graduated with her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2018. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. During her clinical studies, she completed a rotation at Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital in Tulsa, OK. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Prior to attending PA school, she worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit.
Jillian graduated with her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2018. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. During her clinical studies, she completed a rotation at Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital in Tulsa, OK. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Prior to attending PA school, she worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit.
(405) 817-6328 View (405) 817-6328
Photo of Karyn Taylor, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karyn Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your mental well-being matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health needs. My practice is founded on the belief that every person deserves access to effective treatment and the opportunity to thrive in their daily lives. For many individuals, the decision to seek psychiatric care can be daunting, and I understand the courage it takes to take that first step towards healing.
Your mental well-being matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health needs. My practice is founded on the belief that every person deserves access to effective treatment and the opportunity to thrive in their daily lives. For many individuals, the decision to seek psychiatric care can be daunting, and I understand the courage it takes to take that first step towards healing.
(405) 450-7167 View (405) 450-7167
Photo of Ashley Mathias, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Mathias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated PMHNP, my passion lies in providing exceptional mental healthcare that transforms lives. I believe in the power of compassionate and personalized care to promote healing and growth. Starting a private practice allows me to offer patient-centered space where individuals can find solace and support on their mental health journey. With a focus on evidence-based treatments and holistic approaches, I aim to address not just symptoms but the underlying factors. My commitment to continuous learning ensures my patients receive the highest standard of care.
As a dedicated PMHNP, my passion lies in providing exceptional mental healthcare that transforms lives. I believe in the power of compassionate and personalized care to promote healing and growth. Starting a private practice allows me to offer patient-centered space where individuals can find solace and support on their mental health journey. With a focus on evidence-based treatments and holistic approaches, I aim to address not just symptoms but the underlying factors. My commitment to continuous learning ensures my patients receive the highest standard of care.
(405) 796-3357 View (405) 796-3357
Photo of Dr. Eric L. Reynolds - 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) 648-6222 View (405) 648-6222
Photo of Heidi Erickson, MD, Psychiatrist
Heidi Erickson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.
Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.
(405) 504-1999 View (405) 504-1999
Photo of Abby Adeyiga - Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midwest City, OK 73130
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) 554-9915 View (405) 554-9915
Photo of Channel Johnson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Channel Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Channel Johnson. I have obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing as a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and I have obtained a post masters as a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I believe in personalized care as I believe that each individual is different with distinct needs. I strive to provide compassionate care. I am optimistic. I provide care to individuals from age 6-65 years of age and I treat a wide variety of conditions. My approach is to provide compassionate care. I believe in a positive approach when treating conditions providing hope. I believe in customized care.
My name is Channel Johnson. I have obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing as a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and I have obtained a post masters as a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I believe in personalized care as I believe that each individual is different with distinct needs. I strive to provide compassionate care. I am optimistic. I provide care to individuals from age 6-65 years of age and I treat a wide variety of conditions. My approach is to provide compassionate care. I believe in a positive approach when treating conditions providing hope. I believe in customized care.
(918) 707-8025 View (918) 707-8025

See more therapy options for 73117

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 73117

< 10

Psychiatrists in 73117 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Testing and Evaluation

Average years in practice

17 Years

How Psychiatrists in 73117 see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 73117?

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.