Psychiatrists in Little Rock, AR

Photo of Laura Conley-Olsen, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura Conley-Olsen
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
I specialize in treating the mental health needs of children and adults using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, including therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medications when indicated. I always appreciate input from families, outside therapists, and teachers when developing treatment plans. My special interests include autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, trauma, trichotillomania, tic disorders, and gender dysphoria. While I do primarily see children and adolescents, I also enjoy caring for adults with autism and those with women’s mental health needs.
I specialize in treating the mental health needs of children and adults using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, including therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medications when indicated. I always appreciate input from families, outside therapists, and teachers when developing treatment plans. My special interests include autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, trauma, trichotillomania, tic disorders, and gender dysphoria. While I do primarily see children and adolescents, I also enjoy caring for adults with autism and those with women’s mental health needs.
(501) 521-1407 View (501) 521-1407
Photo of Adarsh Reddy, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Adarsh Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
3 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72201
My clients/ patients include but are not limited to people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, psychosis, substance use disorders, and ADHD. People reach out to me for various reasons, including needing a different approach to managing their issues, providing adequate time to address all their problems, and wanting someone who is easily reachable, questionable, respectful, and nonjudgmental. My goal is to provide highly personalized service for a small number of clients. I strive to be an active listener with a nonjudgmental attitude.
My clients/ patients include but are not limited to people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, psychosis, substance use disorders, and ADHD. People reach out to me for various reasons, including needing a different approach to managing their issues, providing adequate time to address all their problems, and wanting someone who is easily reachable, questionable, respectful, and nonjudgmental. My goal is to provide highly personalized service for a small number of clients. I strive to be an active listener with a nonjudgmental attitude.
(501) 222-4553 View (501) 222-4553
Photo of Jennifer Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jennifer Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
I seek to serve women who are worn out. So much of being a woman is being told to be a certain way, and it's making us ill. As a critical care nurse who burned out and clawed my way back to purpose, I seek to support those in helping positions or professions who realize their coping mechanisms just aren't enough anymore. I'm tired of seeing people at the end of their journey, suffering from a life of stress that has caused physical harm; and want to help people shift into wellness now. A full life with purpose is possible!
I seek to serve women who are worn out. So much of being a woman is being told to be a certain way, and it's making us ill. As a critical care nurse who burned out and clawed my way back to purpose, I seek to support those in helping positions or professions who realize their coping mechanisms just aren't enough anymore. I'm tired of seeing people at the end of their journey, suffering from a life of stress that has caused physical harm; and want to help people shift into wellness now. A full life with purpose is possible!
(501) 301-0441 View (501) 301-0441
Photo of Julie Harris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN
Julie Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be tough, but you don't have to face it alone. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe space for you to heal and grow. I take a holistic approach to mental health care. This means caring for the whole person and addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I focus on treating the mental health needs of adults and older adults.
Life can be tough, but you don't have to face it alone. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe space for you to heal and grow. I take a holistic approach to mental health care. This means caring for the whole person and addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I focus on treating the mental health needs of adults and older adults.
Photo of Shawn Faust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
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.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Dr. Austin Lin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Austin Lin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
(501) 222-9578 View (501) 222-9578
Photo of Danielle Jenkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PHMNPBC
Danielle Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PHMNPBC
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72223
My goal is to help patients along their mental health journey. I will work tirelessly to meet you where you are, as well as collaborate with you to develop a cohesive and pharmacologically advised plan to get where you need and, more importantly, want to go. This journey consists of establishing a safe, judgement-free space that encourages honesty to most efficiently and effectively help those in my care. Honesty, communication, and open dialogue are key components to creating a complete and considerate treatment and wellness plan.
My goal is to help patients along their mental health journey. I will work tirelessly to meet you where you are, as well as collaborate with you to develop a cohesive and pharmacologically advised plan to get where you need and, more importantly, want to go. This journey consists of establishing a safe, judgement-free space that encourages honesty to most efficiently and effectively help those in my care. Honesty, communication, and open dialogue are key components to creating a complete and considerate treatment and wellness plan.
(501) 236-5808 View (501) 236-5808
Photo of Richard Flanigin, Psychiatrist, MD
Richard Flanigin
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
(501) 669-3655 View (501) 669-3655
Photo of Ashton Nealy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Ashton Nealy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Little Rock, AR 72205
I am dedicated to providing supportive services, diagnostic evaluations, and medication management for individuals with multiple diagnoses, which include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and trauma-related disorders.
I am dedicated to providing supportive services, diagnostic evaluations, and medication management for individuals with multiple diagnoses, which include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and trauma-related disorders.
(501) 961-4467 View (501) 961-4467
Photo of Ariella Frazier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Ariella Frazier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Little Rock, AR 72205
I am a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have an interest in treating the mental health care needs of the adult and older adult populations. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy for clients. I also incorporate a collaborative approach and may refer to​ more specialized therapy options that could be beneficial.
I am a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have an interest in treating the mental health care needs of the adult and older adult populations. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy for clients. I also incorporate a collaborative approach and may refer to​ more specialized therapy options that could be beneficial.
(501) 456-4014 View (501) 456-4014
Photo of Zack Coco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Zack Coco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72211
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
(501) 238-8812 View (501) 238-8812
Photo of Chloe Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Chloe Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Little Rock, AR 72205
My ideal client is an individual willing to put in the time and effort to know themselves and adhere to a treatment plan. He/she would be agreeable to a modality of therapy along with medication management. He/she would be motivated to give up use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol if necessary.
My ideal client is an individual willing to put in the time and effort to know themselves and adhere to a treatment plan. He/she would be agreeable to a modality of therapy along with medication management. He/she would be motivated to give up use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol if necessary.
(501) 673-5682 View (501) 673-5682
Photo of Nihit Kumar, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
Nihit Kumar
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
I am a licensed and board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management and addiction services for adults and children. Through my contributions to clinical work, teaching, and research, I've been recognized as a Distinguished Fellow by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I primarily treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma in children and adolescents, and substance use problems in youth and adults.
I am a licensed and board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management and addiction services for adults and children. Through my contributions to clinical work, teaching, and research, I've been recognized as a Distinguished Fellow by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I primarily treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma in children and adolescents, and substance use problems in youth and adults.
(501) 298-4789 View (501) 298-4789
Photo of Mark Andersen, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark Andersen
Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(501) 236-4530 View (501) 236-4530
Photo of Stacey Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Stacey Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Little Rock, AR 72205
Sometime finding a safe place to be yourself is next to impossible. There is a place just for you. Where you can be your authentic self. No judgment. No weird looks. No shame. I'm here to help you reach your goal. I offer holistic, ethical, evidence- based, person-centered care. Come in, have a seat, let's get to the bottom of it, Together.
Sometime finding a safe place to be yourself is next to impossible. There is a place just for you. Where you can be your authentic self. No judgment. No weird looks. No shame. I'm here to help you reach your goal. I offer holistic, ethical, evidence- based, person-centered care. Come in, have a seat, let's get to the bottom of it, Together.
(501) 285-8925 View (501) 285-8925
Photo of Mary Paal - Paal & Paal Consulting, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Paal & Paal Consulting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72202
The focus is on adults ....helping humans cope - physical/emotional/nutritional health assessed - working with adults to design a focus to improve relationship with self and others
The focus is on adults ....helping humans cope - physical/emotional/nutritional health assessed - working with adults to design a focus to improve relationship with self and others
(501) 263-2866 View (501) 263-2866
Photo of Kelsey McClellan, Psychiatrist, MD
Kelsey McClellan
Psychiatrist, MD
Little Rock, AR 72205
I am a licensed psychiatrist who primarily treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, neurodivergence, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia. I believe that the best path to mental wellness is one built on collaboration. I view every patient as a partner in their own care, working together with compassion, respect, and understanding.
I am a licensed psychiatrist who primarily treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, neurodivergence, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia. I believe that the best path to mental wellness is one built on collaboration. I view every patient as a partner in their own care, working together with compassion, respect, and understanding.
(501) 727-4183 View (501) 727-4183
Photo of Dr. Rhonda Mattox, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Rhonda Mattox
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
When industry leaders, physicians, and high achievers are ready to turn their expertise into impact and income, Dr. Rhonda Mattox is the trusted advisor they call. As a triple fellowship trained board-certified psychiatrist and renowned medical media consultant, she brings a unique blend of insight, strategy, and experience to help you rise above setbacks, redefine your path, and navigate a career that aligns with your core values and fuels your future. Dr. Rhonda has earned a reputation as the go-to expert for career and business coaching because she understands the complexities of high-pressure professions and life transitions.
When industry leaders, physicians, and high achievers are ready to turn their expertise into impact and income, Dr. Rhonda Mattox is the trusted advisor they call. As a triple fellowship trained board-certified psychiatrist and renowned medical media consultant, she brings a unique blend of insight, strategy, and experience to help you rise above setbacks, redefine your path, and navigate a career that aligns with your core values and fuels your future. Dr. Rhonda has earned a reputation as the go-to expert for career and business coaching because she understands the complexities of high-pressure professions and life transitions.
(501) 322-8165 View (501) 322-8165
Photo of Dr. Michele Kerbow, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michele Kerbow
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Michele Kerbow is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. She completed her undergraduate training at Clemson University before continuing to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC. From there, she completed her General Psychiatry Internship and General Adult Psychiatry Residency through the University of Virginia in Roanoke. Though she has a wide array of experience in psychiatric care and psychological assessment, Dr. Kerbow has a particular interest in the treatment of Veterans' issues and trauma.
Dr. Michele Kerbow is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. She completed her undergraduate training at Clemson University before continuing to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC. From there, she completed her General Psychiatry Internship and General Adult Psychiatry Residency through the University of Virginia in Roanoke. Though she has a wide array of experience in psychiatric care and psychological assessment, Dr. Kerbow has a particular interest in the treatment of Veterans' issues and trauma.
(501) 531-3064 View (501) 531-3064
Photo of Brandi Yarberry - New Hope Child Psychiatry , Psychiatrist, DO
New Hope Child Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Little Rock, AR 72211
Dr. Yarberry is a Little Rock native. She attended Mt. St. Mary Academy, then Lyon College, and received her medical degree at Ohio University. Dr. Yarberry completed both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Her last two years she served as Chief Resident and Co-Chief Resident. She is double board certified in Child and Adolescent and General Psychiatry. When she's not in the office she enjoys the outdoors, traveling, dancing and spending time with her husband, 2 daughters, cat and adorable Chihuahua.
Dr. Yarberry is a Little Rock native. She attended Mt. St. Mary Academy, then Lyon College, and received her medical degree at Ohio University. Dr. Yarberry completed both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Her last two years she served as Chief Resident and Co-Chief Resident. She is double board certified in Child and Adolescent and General Psychiatry. When she's not in the office she enjoys the outdoors, traveling, dancing and spending time with her husband, 2 daughters, cat and adorable Chihuahua.
(501) 300-6282 View (501) 300-6282

See more therapy options for Little Rock

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Little Rock, AR

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Little Rock, AR who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
91% Medication Management
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Trauma and PTSD
84% Bipolar Disorder
70% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Cigna and Evernorth
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Little Rock, AR see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Little Rock?

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.