Psychiatrists in 74112

We are accepting new patients at Tasel Health. Our board-certified psychiatrist offers in-person and Telehealth appointments. Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or feeling as if your life has no purpose? Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Then, welcome to Tasel Health. At Tasel Health, high-quality mental health care is more than treating illness - it is a journey to achieving wellness. Our approach is to help clients form more effective strategies for managing stress so they can feel better and take control of their circumstances.
We are accepting new patients at Tasel Health. Our board-certified psychiatrist offers in-person and Telehealth appointments. Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or feeling as if your life has no purpose? Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Then, welcome to Tasel Health. At Tasel Health, high-quality mental health care is more than treating illness - it is a journey to achieving wellness. Our approach is to help clients form more effective strategies for managing stress so they can feel better and take control of their circumstances.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Ilona Willyard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owasso, OK 74055
I am here to help. I believe in the importance of the healthcare provider and patient working together as partners to develop a plan of care that is best. I also strives to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for every client and am a LGBTQ+ affirming provider.
I am here to help. I believe in the importance of the healthcare provider and patient working together as partners to develop a plan of care that is best. I also strives to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for every client and am a LGBTQ+ affirming provider.

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.

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.

Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74147
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.

I provide psychiatric med management and brief psychotherapy to clients with multiple psychiatric conditions. My specialty areas include bipolar disorder, substance abuse, patient's experiencing homelessness, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and LGBTQIA+. I have a suboxone program for patients seeking addiction medicine. I have availability for virtual and in-person appointments. I am available for virtual appointments on Mondays. We have walk-in hours available Tuesday-Thursday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. We are closed during federal holidays. You can request a virtual appointment on my website or call to schedule an in-person visit.
I provide psychiatric med management and brief psychotherapy to clients with multiple psychiatric conditions. My specialty areas include bipolar disorder, substance abuse, patient's experiencing homelessness, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and LGBTQIA+. I have a suboxone program for patients seeking addiction medicine. I have availability for virtual and in-person appointments. I am available for virtual appointments on Mondays. We have walk-in hours available Tuesday-Thursday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. We are closed during federal holidays. You can request a virtual appointment on my website or call to schedule an in-person visit.

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.

Andrew Carter is a physician assistant, practicing in psychiatry since 2009. He graduated from Missouri State University with a Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Andrew believes in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and assisting a person to find the best treatment option(s) for the situation. Andrew's main role is to treat with medications, though he understands there are nonpharmacological approaches to explore as well. His main areas of focus include depression, insomnia and various types of anxiety, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Andrew Carter is a physician assistant, practicing in psychiatry since 2009. He graduated from Missouri State University with a Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Andrew believes in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and assisting a person to find the best treatment option(s) for the situation. Andrew's main role is to treat with medications, though he understands there are nonpharmacological approaches to explore as well. His main areas of focus include depression, insomnia and various types of anxiety, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Elizabeth Umemba is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained her degree from Walden University. Elizabeth has several years’ experience in her field. Her passion for mental health originated from her nursing and personal experiences. Elizabeth's goal is to improve the mental health of her clients, and her vision is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services to her clients, empowering them and contributing to the growth of the community.
Elizabeth Umemba is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained her degree from Walden University. Elizabeth has several years’ experience in her field. Her passion for mental health originated from her nursing and personal experiences. Elizabeth's goal is to improve the mental health of her clients, and her vision is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services to her clients, empowering them and contributing to the growth of the community.

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 an 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 via telehealth services.
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 an 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 via telehealth services.

Hello, I’m Janefrances Ologolo, 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 Janefrances Ologolo, 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.

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.

Brenda Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, AGNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74105
Brenda approaches each patient as a unique, extraordinary individual facilitating a whole-person, patient-centered approach. Although medication interventions are discussed, Brenda encourages other appropriate modalities for optimal mental health. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle incorporating exercise and a healthy diet, stress reduction, and quality sleep. She also utilizes psychotherapy interventions, including solution-focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Brenda approaches each patient as a unique, extraordinary individual facilitating a whole-person, patient-centered approach. Although medication interventions are discussed, Brenda encourages other appropriate modalities for optimal mental health. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle incorporating exercise and a healthy diet, stress reduction, and quality sleep. She also utilizes psychotherapy interventions, including solution-focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

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."

Lyndsey Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Embracing mental health care is not just about managing symptoms—it’s a pathway to understanding oneself, cultivating resilience, and developing coping strategies for life's challenges. My approach is collaborative, valuing your unique perspective and lived experiences. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership, working together to explore the depths of your concerns, set achievable goals, and ultimately empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.
Embracing mental health care is not just about managing symptoms—it’s a pathway to understanding oneself, cultivating resilience, and developing coping strategies for life's challenges. My approach is collaborative, valuing your unique perspective and lived experiences. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership, working together to explore the depths of your concerns, set achievable goals, and ultimately empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.

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.

Advanced Practice Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, PA-C , CAQ psy, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.

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.

Jozeca Meyer, PA, is dedicated to helping individuals in Oklahoma navigate a range of psychiatric conditions. With her extensive experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, Jozeca provides comprehensive medication management to support her patients' mental and emotional wellbeing. Her work spans across various age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, making her practice accessible to a wide range of individuals. She focuses on fostering longterm mental health stability for those struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma, among other conditions.
Jozeca Meyer, PA, is dedicated to helping individuals in Oklahoma navigate a range of psychiatric conditions. With her extensive experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, Jozeca provides comprehensive medication management to support her patients' mental and emotional wellbeing. Her work spans across various age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, making her practice accessible to a wide range of individuals. She focuses on fostering longterm mental health stability for those struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma, among other conditions.

Dale N. Switzer is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2016. He earned his Physician’s degree from Oklahoma State University, Center for Health Sciences and is a graduate of University of Missouri Kansas City Psychiatry Residency (Go Chiefs!). Dale believes in treating the whole person, including the understanding of your spiritual needs and desired improvements. The ability to live the way you want to live – to be the friend, or the father, mother, brother, or sister that you want to be is critical.
Dale N. Switzer is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2016. He earned his Physician’s degree from Oklahoma State University, Center for Health Sciences and is a graduate of University of Missouri Kansas City Psychiatry Residency (Go Chiefs!). Dale believes in treating the whole person, including the understanding of your spiritual needs and desired improvements. The ability to live the way you want to live – to be the friend, or the father, mother, brother, or sister that you want to be is critical.
See more therapy options for 74112
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 74112
< 10
Psychiatrists in 74112 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Medicaid |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in 74112 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 74112?
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.