Psychiatrists in Harrison, AR

Photo of Jessica Gutting, APRN, MSNC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Gutting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSNC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, AR 72601
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
(870) 558-6822 View (870) 558-6822
Photo of Mark Andersen, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark Andersen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
(870) 340-2636 View (870) 340-2636
Photo of Derainey Rene Smith - Buffalo River Clinic, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Buffalo River Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Providing psychiatric services for adults and children. Treating a variety of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Very often after developing a successful treatment plan we hear “I feel like I have gotten my life back.”
Providing psychiatric services for adults and children. Treating a variety of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Very often after developing a successful treatment plan we hear “I feel like I have gotten my life back.”
(870) 259-5108 View (870) 259-5108

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kaitlin Hiddle, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kaitlin Hiddle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Kaitlin helps all people young or old, small or great find gentle care and wise counsel for a better future.
Kaitlin helps all people young or old, small or great find gentle care and wise counsel for a better future.
(479) 309-1071 View (479) 309-1071
Photo of Christa Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christa Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
Christa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Nurse Educator holding Masters degrees in both specialties. She has a strong passion for mental health and educating her client as she feels knowledge is power. Christa utilizes evidence-based treatments and research as well as compassion and empathy to provide a holistic approach for individuals. She believes in taking time with her clients to not only get to know them but to also work together as a team to navigate treatment options that best benefit the client and support their overall health.
Christa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Nurse Educator holding Masters degrees in both specialties. She has a strong passion for mental health and educating her client as she feels knowledge is power. Christa utilizes evidence-based treatments and research as well as compassion and empathy to provide a holistic approach for individuals. She believes in taking time with her clients to not only get to know them but to also work together as a team to navigate treatment options that best benefit the client and support their overall health.
(501) 300-9586 View (501) 300-9586
Photo of Kristy Lawson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristy Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello. My name is Kristy Lawson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. With over 20 years of experience in mental healthcare, my expertise encompasses substance abuse, geriatrics, adolescents, and adults, fueled by patients' wellness and goal attainment. Mental health is an important element in maintaining a holistic approach to everyday lifestyle. However, the stresses of physical and emotional changes, illness, providing care, or suffering loss can bring about feelings of anxiety, grief, and depression.
Hello. My name is Kristy Lawson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. With over 20 years of experience in mental healthcare, my expertise encompasses substance abuse, geriatrics, adolescents, and adults, fueled by patients' wellness and goal attainment. Mental health is an important element in maintaining a holistic approach to everyday lifestyle. However, the stresses of physical and emotional changes, illness, providing care, or suffering loss can bring about feelings of anxiety, grief, and depression.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(501) 322-6678 View (501) 322-6678
Photo of Dr. Saadia Haneef, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Saadia Haneef
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72756
Dr. Saadia Haneef is a Psychiatrist who specializes in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and has been practicing in Northwest Arkansas since 2011. She completed Medical School in Florida, Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in North Carolina, and soon thereafter discovered Northwest Arkansas.
Dr. Saadia Haneef is a Psychiatrist who specializes in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and has been practicing in Northwest Arkansas since 2011. She completed Medical School in Florida, Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in North Carolina, and soon thereafter discovered Northwest Arkansas.
(870) 204-5640 View (870) 204-5640
Photo of Alisha McCool, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alisha McCool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
I am accepting new patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
I am accepting new patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
(501) 441-3353 View (501) 441-3353
Photo of Heather Humphrey, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This board certification enables me to treat mental health across the lifespan, which allows me to care for and prescribe medicine for children, teens, and adults. My background includes working in an intensive care unit, outpatient care, and crisis stabilization, as well as interning in many outpatient psychiatric settings. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders, sleep disorders, crises, PTSD, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and more.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This board certification enables me to treat mental health across the lifespan, which allows me to care for and prescribe medicine for children, teens, and adults. My background includes working in an intensive care unit, outpatient care, and crisis stabilization, as well as interning in many outpatient psychiatric settings. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders, sleep disorders, crises, PTSD, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and more.
(479) 346-1338 View (479) 346-1338
Photo of Whitney H Reed, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Whitney H Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
An ideal client is someone that needs support in navigating and understanding how medication management can be an important component in meeting their treatment goals. My ideal client communicates with me openly about their response to medication, both good and bad. They are willing to be open-minded and are interested in learning about their medication and advocating for themselves when something isn't right.
An ideal client is someone that needs support in navigating and understanding how medication management can be an important component in meeting their treatment goals. My ideal client communicates with me openly about their response to medication, both good and bad. They are willing to be open-minded and are interested in learning about their medication and advocating for themselves when something isn't right.
(870) 259-5098 View (870) 259-5098
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(479) 370-4613 View (479) 370-4613
Photo of Jacquelyn Lange-Halley - Dauntless Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dauntless Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Dauntless Psychiatry! We aim is to provide the Very Best Psychiatric Care to the Northwest Arkansas community. In order to do so, it is Imperative that we are able to provide new patient appointments ASAP! Our goal and commitment is to schedule new patients for initial evaluation with one of our experienced Psychiatric Clinicians WITHIN 2 WEEKS! Our Providers: - Jacquelyn Lange-Halley, MD (Board Certified General Psychiatrist); - Ashlea Brewer, PMHNP (Psych Nurse Practitioner); - Jahnneliz Perez, PMHNP (Psych Nurse Practitioner); - Jessica Musgrove, PMHNP (Psych Nurse Practitioner);
Welcome to Dauntless Psychiatry! We aim is to provide the Very Best Psychiatric Care to the Northwest Arkansas community. In order to do so, it is Imperative that we are able to provide new patient appointments ASAP! Our goal and commitment is to schedule new patients for initial evaluation with one of our experienced Psychiatric Clinicians WITHIN 2 WEEKS! Our Providers: - Jacquelyn Lange-Halley, MD (Board Certified General Psychiatrist); - Ashlea Brewer, PMHNP (Psych Nurse Practitioner); - Jahnneliz Perez, PMHNP (Psych Nurse Practitioner); - Jessica Musgrove, PMHNP (Psych Nurse Practitioner);
(479) 239-9906 View (479) 239-9906
Photo of Scotty Spurlin, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Scotty Spurlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Clinton, AR 72031
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I enjoy helping older children, adolescents, and adults achieve their goals and improve their lives. My emphasis is medication management, but I often also recommend counseling. I welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community. While I do see older adults, I do not specialize in dementia or geriatric psychiatry.
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I enjoy helping older children, adolescents, and adults achieve their goals and improve their lives. My emphasis is medication management, but I often also recommend counseling. I welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community. While I do see older adults, I do not specialize in dementia or geriatric psychiatry.
(501) 214-6233 View (501) 214-6233
Photo of Tonya Chambers - Nonnas Care LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nonnas Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you looking for convenient, compassionate mental health care from the comfort of your own home? At Nonnas Care, we specialize in telehealth services for medication management, ensuring you receive the support you need, when you need it. - Convenience: Access mental health services via secure phone or video calls, eliminating the need for travel. - Confidentiality: Your privacy is our priority. Communicate through our secure line by texting 479-391-2424. - Easy Referrals: Healthcare providers can fax referrals to 479-227-5360.
Are you looking for convenient, compassionate mental health care from the comfort of your own home? At Nonnas Care, we specialize in telehealth services for medication management, ensuring you receive the support you need, when you need it. - Convenience: Access mental health services via secure phone or video calls, eliminating the need for travel. - Confidentiality: Your privacy is our priority. Communicate through our secure line by texting 479-391-2424. - Easy Referrals: Healthcare providers can fax referrals to 479-227-5360.
(479) 929-2958 View (479) 929-2958
Photo of Charlene Brown, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlene Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Charlene Brown. I am a certified psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I feel that care for mental health issues should be accessible to everyone. Without adequate treatment of mental health an individual put themselves at risk of not living their ultimate quality of life.
My name is Charlene Brown. I am a certified psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I feel that care for mental health issues should be accessible to everyone. Without adequate treatment of mental health an individual put themselves at risk of not living their ultimate quality of life.
(870) 601-1658 View (870) 601-1658
Photo of Shalunda Sasser, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shalunda Sasser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Shalunda Sasser- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice. I utilize an integrative approach to patient care, considering all factors that influence health and wellness including the mind, spirit, and body, as well as the community.
Shalunda Sasser- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice. I utilize an integrative approach to patient care, considering all factors that influence health and wellness including the mind, spirit, and body, as well as the community.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Channing Hall, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Channing Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
I provide assessments and medication management, giving special attention to each client’s specific needs. This includes consideration of their personal histories, experiences and/or circumstances, questions/concerns or even fears about the initiation of medication(s), while addressing those needs with patience, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and aid in building rapport, comfort and trust.
I provide assessments and medication management, giving special attention to each client’s specific needs. This includes consideration of their personal histories, experiences and/or circumstances, questions/concerns or even fears about the initiation of medication(s), while addressing those needs with patience, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and aid in building rapport, comfort and trust.
(501) 302-4565 View (501) 302-4565
Photo of Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(501) 459-3138 View (501) 459-3138
Photo of Amber Marengo, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Marengo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058
Embark on a transformative journey with a compassionate Christian therapist who integrates nursing experience with faith-based support. I offer treatment for a range of issues, including life transitions, depression, self-esteem challenges, PTSD, insomnia, and grief.
Embark on a transformative journey with a compassionate Christian therapist who integrates nursing experience with faith-based support. I offer treatment for a range of issues, including life transitions, depression, self-esteem challenges, PTSD, insomnia, and grief.
(501) 474-6728 View (501) 474-6728

See more therapy options for Harrison

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Harrison, AR

< 10

Psychiatrists in Harrison, AR who prioritize treating:

100% Psychosis
100% Medication Management
67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Grief
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare
100% United Medical Resources (UMR)

How Psychiatrists in Harrison, AR see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Harrison?

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.