Psychiatrists in 74012

Photo of Jared Keck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jared Keck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm a PMHNP-BC, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan, combining medication management with supportive psychotherapy to promote holistic mental wellness. My focus areas include treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other mood and behavioral health conditions with an emphasis on collaboration and individualized care.
I'm a PMHNP-BC, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan, combining medication management with supportive psychotherapy to promote holistic mental wellness. My focus areas include treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other mood and behavioral health conditions with an emphasis on collaboration and individualized care.
(918) 205-7354 View (918) 205-7354
Photo of Prudencia Ijeoma Tankeu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Prudencia Ijeoma Tankeu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma, and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs. My approach to psychiatric care is warm, welcoming and free from judgment. I strive to provide high-quality care that nurtures the mind, body and spirit. If you're new to psychiatric care or are interesting in seeing a new provider, I invite you to come in and let's work together to create a treatment plan that will help you become your best self."
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma, and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs. My approach to psychiatric care is warm, welcoming and free from judgment. I strive to provide high-quality care that nurtures the mind, body and spirit. If you're new to psychiatric care or are interesting in seeing a new provider, I invite you to come in and let's work together to create a treatment plan that will help you become your best self."
(918) 205-9806 View (918) 205-9806
Photo of Elizabeth Umemba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elizabeth Umemba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained her degree from Walden University. I have several years of experience in my field. My passion for mental health originated from my nursing and personal experiences. My goal is to improve the mental health of my clients, and my vision is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services to them, empowering them and contributing to the community's growth.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained her degree from Walden University. I have several years of experience in my field. My passion for mental health originated from my nursing and personal experiences. My goal is to improve the mental health of my clients, and my vision is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services to them, empowering them and contributing to the community's growth.
(918) 205-9568 View (918) 205-9568
Photo of Lynn Armah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lynn Armah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental healthcare. I believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—by integrating medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies tailored to each individual’s needs.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental healthcare. I believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—by integrating medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies tailored to each individual’s needs.
(918) 303-4935 View (918) 303-4935
Photo of Fernanda Cooley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fernanda Cooley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I am Fernanda Cooley. I have a doctoral degree in nursing practice, dually certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner, and have a master's degree in Christian Counseling and a master's of Divinity with Biblical languages. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and have basic knowledge of ASL. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic. I love to integrate the care of the spirit, the mind and the body, as my training mentioned above shows.
Hi, I am Fernanda Cooley. I have a doctoral degree in nursing practice, dually certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner, and have a master's degree in Christian Counseling and a master's of Divinity with Biblical languages. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and have basic knowledge of ASL. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic. I love to integrate the care of the spirit, the mind and the body, as my training mentioned above shows.
(918) 393-5139 View (918) 393-5139
Photo of Stephanie Sue McQuarters - Mind Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Mind Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Broken Arrow, OK 74012
I have always been passionate and eager to learn more about mental health even as a young adult and working as healthcare provider in a facility managing medical patients. Having experienced trauma, depression and anxiety first-hand, I understand the importance of seeking professional help. I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to help individuals to cope with mental health challenges through therapy and med management. When I was in a crisis, I received appropriate care which changed my life and I desire to do the same for others.
I have always been passionate and eager to learn more about mental health even as a young adult and working as healthcare provider in a facility managing medical patients. Having experienced trauma, depression and anxiety first-hand, I understand the importance of seeking professional help. I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to help individuals to cope with mental health challenges through therapy and med management. When I was in a crisis, I received appropriate care which changed my life and I desire to do the same for others.
(918) 937-7892 View (918) 937-7892
Photo of Bracie Haworth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
I'm Bracie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Bracie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
(918) 205-9420 View (918) 205-9420
Photo of Janefrances Ologolo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Janefrances Ologolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I’m a PMHNP-BC, APRN, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My practice emphasizes a holistic and compassionate approach, empowering patients with tailored, evidence-based care plans. I specialize in mental health care across the lifespan, serving children, adolescents, and adults, and am dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive environment to guide each patient toward mental wellness. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic, person-centered approach to mental health care, emphasizing compassion, collaboration, and continuity.
Hello, I’m a PMHNP-BC, APRN, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My practice emphasizes a holistic and compassionate approach, empowering patients with tailored, evidence-based care plans. I specialize in mental health care across the lifespan, serving children, adolescents, and adults, and am dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive environment to guide each patient toward mental wellness. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic, person-centered approach to mental health care, emphasizing compassion, collaboration, and continuity.
(918) 771-9971 View (918) 771-9971
Photo of Ambeson Ambe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ambeson Ambe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a PMHNP board-certified, and I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through their Mental health challenges to experience holistic healing and growth in their recovery journey. As your PMHNP, I prioritize your well-being and trust above all else. With compassion and expertise, I'm here to support you on your mental health journey. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and work towards a brighter, healthier future. Your voice matters, and I'm committed to listening, understanding, and guiding you with respect and empathy.
I am a PMHNP board-certified, and I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through their Mental health challenges to experience holistic healing and growth in their recovery journey. As your PMHNP, I prioritize your well-being and trust above all else. With compassion and expertise, I'm here to support you on your mental health journey. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and work towards a brighter, healthier future. Your voice matters, and I'm committed to listening, understanding, and guiding you with respect and empathy.
(918) 265-1573 View (918) 265-1573
Photo of Channel Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Channel Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
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
Photo of Abiodun Adeyiga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abiodun Adeyiga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Ifeoma Ogbalu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ifeoma Ogbalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and am 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 also 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 am 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 also 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 Sylvie Mawoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sylvie Mawoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism spectrum, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, Weight loss, Obesity, and other mental health disorders. I do telehealth services in all parts of Oklahoma with accessible and personalized mental health care, including prescriptive medication management, psychiatric evaluation, talk therapy, and other mental health needs right at the comfort of your own home or wherever you might be.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism spectrum, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, Weight loss, Obesity, and other mental health disorders. I do telehealth services in all parts of Oklahoma with accessible and personalized mental health care, including prescriptive medication management, psychiatric evaluation, talk therapy, and other mental health needs right at the comfort of your own home or wherever you might be.
(918) 719-1868 View (918) 719-1868
Photo of Dustin O Hayes, Psychiatrist, DO
Dustin O Hayes
Psychiatrist, DO
Broken Arrow, OK 74012
I specialize in psychiatry and opioid dependence. We accept Medicaid, Medicare primary and self pay. Please visit eclipestulsa dot com or call 918 940 4734 to request an appointment.
I specialize in psychiatry and opioid dependence. We accept Medicaid, Medicare primary and self pay. Please visit eclipestulsa dot com or call 918 940 4734 to request an appointment.
(918) 416-3039 View (918) 416-3039
Photo of Brenda Richards, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, AGNP, PMHNP-B
Brenda Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, AGNP, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new patients. Brenda is an Adult Geriatric (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated summa cum laude from Regis College and Oral Roberts University with her MSN and BSN, respectively. Brenda approaches each patient as a unique, extraordinary individual facilitating a whole-person, patient-centered approach. Although medication interventions are discussed, Brenda also encourages other appropriate modalities for optimal mental health, including a healthy lifestyle. She is happily married and enjoys visiting the ocean, snorkeling, cycling, and music.
Accepting new patients. Brenda is an Adult Geriatric (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated summa cum laude from Regis College and Oral Roberts University with her MSN and BSN, respectively. Brenda approaches each patient as a unique, extraordinary individual facilitating a whole-person, patient-centered approach. Although medication interventions are discussed, Brenda also encourages other appropriate modalities for optimal mental health, including a healthy lifestyle. She is happily married and enjoys visiting the ocean, snorkeling, cycling, and music.
(918) 300-3886 View (918) 300-3886
Photo of Callee Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Callee Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background that spans mental health, geriatrics, home health, intensive care, and long-term rehabilitation. My personality is open, honest, and direct—I believe transparency builds trust. With over a decade of hands-on nursing experience and recent advanced training in psychopharmacology and CBT, I bring both empathy and expertise to our work together. My clients can count on clear communication, collaborative care, and a deep commitment to helping them thrive.
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background that spans mental health, geriatrics, home health, intensive care, and long-term rehabilitation. My personality is open, honest, and direct—I believe transparency builds trust. With over a decade of hands-on nursing experience and recent advanced training in psychopharmacology and CBT, I bring both empathy and expertise to our work together. My clients can count on clear communication, collaborative care, and a deep commitment to helping them thrive.
(918) 800-8770 View (918) 800-8770
Photo of Channel Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, , PMHNP
Channel Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, , PMHNP
Online Only
If you need to see a certified psychiatric mental health provider and need medication management. I can see patients within 1- 2 days. I treat all mental health conditions from ADHD, schizophrenia and substance use disorder to name a few. Each individuals needs are diverse and personal. As a mental health professional a safe and supportive environment is important. Our approach is both holistic and evidence-based, ensuring that each treatment plan is personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual.
If you need to see a certified psychiatric mental health provider and need medication management. I can see patients within 1- 2 days. I treat all mental health conditions from ADHD, schizophrenia and substance use disorder to name a few. Each individuals needs are diverse and personal. As a mental health professional a safe and supportive environment is important. Our approach is both holistic and evidence-based, ensuring that each treatment plan is personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(918) 268-7610 View (918) 268-7610

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Erica R Sun - Dr. Sun Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Sun Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, DO
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a double board-certified psychiatrist, I will conduct evaluations via telemedicine to assess for possible psychiatric conditions. Based on our visit, we will develop an appropriate and potential pharmacologic treatment plan together. I focus on safety, sustainability and shared decision making and I try my best to walk with my patients through their symptoms and struggles, while respecting and encouraging personal autonomy. I will also likely encourage you to set up with a therapist since studies point to the success of patients who are receiving both pharmacologic and behavioral treatments together than either one alone.
As a double board-certified psychiatrist, I will conduct evaluations via telemedicine to assess for possible psychiatric conditions. Based on our visit, we will develop an appropriate and potential pharmacologic treatment plan together. I focus on safety, sustainability and shared decision making and I try my best to walk with my patients through their symptoms and struggles, while respecting and encouraging personal autonomy. I will also likely encourage you to set up with a therapist since studies point to the success of patients who are receiving both pharmacologic and behavioral treatments together than either one alone.
(405) 592-7873 View (405) 592-7873
Photo of Anton Surja, Psychiatrist, MD
Anton Surja
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
We help individuals struggling with ADHD, learning disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use that impact school, work, relationships, and family life. Our holistic approach restores psychological and physical well-being, empowering clients to overcome challenges, build self-esteem, and achieve lasting success—free from addiction and past trauma. Let us help you regain control and thrive.
We help individuals struggling with ADHD, learning disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use that impact school, work, relationships, and family life. Our holistic approach restores psychological and physical well-being, empowering clients to overcome challenges, build self-esteem, and achieve lasting success—free from addiction and past trauma. Let us help you regain control and thrive.
(469) 425-7632 View (469) 425-7632
Photo of Nicole Bernard Washington - Elocin Psychiatric Services, PLLC, Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Elocin Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Tulsa, OK 74133
Avoiding treatment due to your busy schedule or difficulty finding a psychiatrist that will see you outside of traditional hours? Are you a recognizable professional in your community and not comfortable being seen in a psychiatrist office? Tired of trying to handle your mental health issues alone? If this sounds like you, then let's talk about how I can help you take back control of your life.
Avoiding treatment due to your busy schedule or difficulty finding a psychiatrist that will see you outside of traditional hours? Are you a recognizable professional in your community and not comfortable being seen in a psychiatrist office? Tired of trying to handle your mental health issues alone? If this sounds like you, then let's talk about how I can help you take back control of your life.
(918) 338-6422 View (918) 338-6422

See more therapy options for 74012

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 74012

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 74012 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
88% Depression
88% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
76% ADHD
65% Trauma and PTSD
65% Psychosis

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 74012 see their clients

76% Online Only
24% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 74012?

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.