Psychiatrists in 73151

Meryl Aaron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73151
Be seen in less than 10 days with a board-certified mental health provider!
With years of expertise in medication management, each patient's plan of care will be both thorough and individualized. Our goal is to provide medication management addressing mental health needs as well as medication combined with therapy. We have been extremely successful treating patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia and Substance/Alcohol Abuse and more. Currently available for telehealth with immediate openings, and in person appointments available as well!
Be seen in less than 10 days with a board-certified mental health provider!
With years of expertise in medication management, each patient's plan of care will be both thorough and individualized. Our goal is to provide medication management addressing mental health needs as well as medication combined with therapy. We have been extremely successful treating patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia and Substance/Alcohol Abuse and more. Currently available for telehealth with immediate openings, and in person appointments available as well!

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Abiodun Adeyiga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73107
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.

Jessica Collett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, SANE-A, SANE-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Patients who are seeking inclusive, trauma-informed care are welcome at both of our Psychiatry & More Clinics (South OKC & Shawnee, OK). Prioritizing lifestyle interventions and medication management, we 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.
Patients who are seeking inclusive, trauma-informed care are welcome at both of our Psychiatry & More Clinics (South OKC & Shawnee, OK). Prioritizing lifestyle interventions and medication management, we 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.

Advanced Practice Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, PA-C , CAQ psy, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
Hello, I'm Laurie Ray, a Board Certified PA-C with a Certificate of Advanced Qualification in psychiatry and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide quality care to patients. My recent work includes inpatient/outpatient services for those suffering from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunction and OCD. Caring for Veterans, couples and individuals, I have learned to personalize patient care. My promise is to provide an open, safe and non-judgemental environment in which we can work together to achieve your optimal mental health.
Hello, I'm Laurie Ray, a Board Certified PA-C with a Certificate of Advanced Qualification in psychiatry and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide quality care to patients. My recent work includes inpatient/outpatient services for those suffering from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunction and OCD. Caring for Veterans, couples and individuals, I have learned to personalize patient care. My promise is to provide an open, safe and non-judgemental environment in which we can work together to achieve your optimal mental health.

Eric L. Reynolds is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2024. He studied at University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine. Eric provides comprehensive psychiatric services to both adolescents and adults of all backgrounds, including new patient evaluations, routine medication management, and psychotherapy. Outside of work, Eric enjoys lifting weights, chess, and video games.
Eric L. Reynolds is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2024. He studied at University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine. Eric provides comprehensive psychiatric services to both adolescents and adults of all backgrounds, including new patient evaluations, routine medication management, and psychotherapy. Outside of work, Eric enjoys lifting weights, chess, and video games.

Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.

MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.

Jennifer graduated summa cum laude with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017. During her clinical studies, she completed a College of Medicine fellowship in the Obstetrics and Gynecology and at Hope Center of Edmond, providing prenatal/postpartum services. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. Upon graduation, she was awarded the OU Health Science Center Joseph J.
Jennifer graduated summa cum laude with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017. During her clinical studies, she completed a College of Medicine fellowship in the Obstetrics and Gynecology and at Hope Center of Edmond, providing prenatal/postpartum services. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. Upon graduation, she was awarded the OU Health Science Center Joseph J.

Relindis Tita
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.

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.

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.

Dr. Ifeoma Grace Ogbalu: Grace Springs Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ifeoma graduated from the Maryville University of St Louis with her Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. She provides psychiatric evaluation, prescriptive medication management, psychotherapy services to patients 18 years and older via telehealth.
Dr. Ifeoma graduated from the Maryville University of St Louis with her Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. She provides psychiatric evaluation, prescriptive medication management, psychotherapy services to patients 18 years and older via telehealth.

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.

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.

Luci received her bachelor s in nursing from the University of Oklahoma where she then continued to get her master s from The University of Texas Arlington for Adult Acute Care. After that, she received her Post-Masters for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. She holds a National Certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center along with State certification through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing.
Luci received her bachelor s in nursing from the University of Oklahoma where she then continued to get her master s from The University of Texas Arlington for Adult Acute Care. After that, she received her Post-Masters for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. She holds a National Certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center along with State certification through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing.

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.

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.

Amanda graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her Master's of Nursing Science degree. Amanda is certified through ANCC as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through Oklahoma's Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients of all ages, races and backgrounds in all ranges of mental health including anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, mood disorders schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. Amanda received her Bachelor's of Science Nursing through Western Governors University.
Amanda graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her Master's of Nursing Science degree. Amanda is certified through ANCC as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through Oklahoma's Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients of all ages, races and backgrounds in all ranges of mental health including anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, mood disorders schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. Amanda received her Bachelor's of Science Nursing through Western Governors University.

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.
See more therapy options for 73151
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 73151
< 10
Psychiatrists in 73151 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 73151 see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 73151?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.