Psychiatrists in Maumelle, AR

Photo of Destiny Sellers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Destiny Sellers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Maumelle, AR 72113
As someone raised in Booneville, Arkansas, I understand how hard it can be to find real, compassionate mental health care. I treat conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and personality disorders with a personalized blend of medication management and therapy. My goal is to meet you where you are, listen without judgment, and help create a plan that supports both your mental and physical wellness — one step at a time. Let’s work together to build a path forward that supports not just your mental health, but your overall well-being.
As someone raised in Booneville, Arkansas, I understand how hard it can be to find real, compassionate mental health care. I treat conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and personality disorders with a personalized blend of medication management and therapy. My goal is to meet you where you are, listen without judgment, and help create a plan that supports both your mental and physical wellness — one step at a time. Let’s work together to build a path forward that supports not just your mental health, but your overall well-being.
(501) 381-5808 View (501) 381-5808
Photo of Stephanie Burnett - Salt + Light Holistic Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C
Salt + Light Holistic Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C
1 Endorsed
Maumelle, AR 72113
Welcome! We seek to provide a balanced approach to mental health, offering both medication management and supportive therapy. Whether you may struggle with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, we provide an array of compassionate providers to help you find stability. Work with us to create goals to find peace in your emotions, improve daily functioning, and work through past trauma. Together, we'll build a personalized plan to promote long-term well-being and health!
Welcome! We seek to provide a balanced approach to mental health, offering both medication management and supportive therapy. Whether you may struggle with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, we provide an array of compassionate providers to help you find stability. Work with us to create goals to find peace in your emotions, improve daily functioning, and work through past trauma. Together, we'll build a personalized plan to promote long-term well-being and health!
(501) 271-3874 View (501) 271-3874
Photo of Erica Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Maumelle, AR 72113
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental wellness. I specialize in diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and personality disorders. I have expertise in medication management and therapeutic interventions tailored to each patient’s needs.  I am licensed in AR, NY, and CA. I offer comprehensive lab testing, including adrenal function, hormones, gut health, and heavy metals. I also offer Genesight testing, and SPRAVAT0 (intranasal ketamine) treatment.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental wellness. I specialize in diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and personality disorders. I have expertise in medication management and therapeutic interventions tailored to each patient’s needs.  I am licensed in AR, NY, and CA. I offer comprehensive lab testing, including adrenal function, hormones, gut health, and heavy metals. I also offer Genesight testing, and SPRAVAT0 (intranasal ketamine) treatment.
(501) 263-2090 View (501) 263-2090
Photo of Zack Coco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Zack Coco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Amanda Ryals, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Amanda Ryals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is anyone open to learning and change to improve their mental health. Life can be hard, from navigating day-to-day stressors to coping with loss, mental or physical illness. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to seek help. I tend to take a straightforward, honest, and nonjudgmental approach by meeting you where you are now and working collaboratively to address your personal goals and to improve your mental health.
My ideal client is anyone open to learning and change to improve their mental health. Life can be hard, from navigating day-to-day stressors to coping with loss, mental or physical illness. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to seek help. I tend to take a straightforward, honest, and nonjudgmental approach by meeting you where you are now and working collaboratively to address your personal goals and to improve your mental health.
(501) 214-6022 View (501) 214-6022
Photo of Ashton Nealy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Ashton Nealy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
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 Chloe Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Chloe Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Serves Area
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 Nancy L Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Nancy L Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
My ideal patient is seeking an experienced medication management provider who embraces a holistic approach to mental and physical health. You may need a new or different psychiatric medication, or you may need health coaching, or you may need someone to help you advocate differently with your primary care physician. Or you may need all of these things! I am motivated to travel WITH my patients, to make sure they feel heard and understood, and to collaborate on a treatment plan. We will leave no stone unturned.
My ideal patient is seeking an experienced medication management provider who embraces a holistic approach to mental and physical health. You may need a new or different psychiatric medication, or you may need health coaching, or you may need someone to help you advocate differently with your primary care physician. Or you may need all of these things! I am motivated to travel WITH my patients, to make sure they feel heard and understood, and to collaborate on a treatment plan. We will leave no stone unturned.
(501) 322-6716 View (501) 322-6716
Photo of Richard Flanigin, Psychiatrist, MD
Richard Flanigin
Psychiatrist, MD
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 Chasey Branch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Chasey Branch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Little Rock, AR 72211
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Whether you’re a high-achiever facing burnout, a young adult seeking direction, a parent balancing caregiving with self-care, or an older adult navigating transitions, grief, or loneliness—I’m here to help. I provide a safe space to heal, with faith-integrated care (if desired) and compassionate, evidence-based support. Let’s move beyond survival mode into a life of peace, presence, and fulfillment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Whether you’re a high-achiever facing burnout, a young adult seeking direction, a parent balancing caregiving with self-care, or an older adult navigating transitions, grief, or loneliness—I’m here to help. I provide a safe space to heal, with faith-integrated care (if desired) and compassionate, evidence-based support. Let’s move beyond survival mode into a life of peace, presence, and fulfillment.
(501) 673-6370 View (501) 673-6370
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Kelsey McClellan, Psychiatrist, MD
Kelsey McClellan
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72207
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 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 Melanie Higgins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Melanie Higgins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
I'm a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate a wide range of mental health challenges. My approach is compassionate, caring, and focused on truly understanding your unique needs. I specialize in medication management and am committed to helping you reach a place where you're functioning at your best. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, or another concern, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Call today to take the first step toward feeling better!
I'm a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate a wide range of mental health challenges. My approach is compassionate, caring, and focused on truly understanding your unique needs. I specialize in medication management and am committed to helping you reach a place where you're functioning at your best. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, or another concern, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Call today to take the first step toward feeling better!
(501) 271-3085 View (501) 271-3085
Photo of Cathy Pettis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BCC
Cathy Pettis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BCC
Online Only
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 10 years of nursing experience. Cathy is playful, creative, and compassionate about delivering quality care to those she serves. She believes that everyone has a beautiful destination and at times needs support in arriving. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and sometimes it feels difficult to navigate alone. Cathy is here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Her goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to homeostasis once again.
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 10 years of nursing experience. Cathy is playful, creative, and compassionate about delivering quality care to those she serves. She believes that everyone has a beautiful destination and at times needs support in arriving. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and sometimes it feels difficult to navigate alone. Cathy is here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Her goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to homeostasis once again.
(501) 300-9926 View (501) 300-9926
Photo of Jenna Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jenna Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have provided comprehensive, evidence-based care to thousands of patients across the lifespan struggling with various mental health challenges, including anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and grief. I have served populations in both metropolitan and rural areas, which fuels my advocacy for affordable, quality mental health care for all patients in all places.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have provided comprehensive, evidence-based care to thousands of patients across the lifespan struggling with various mental health challenges, including anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and grief. I have served populations in both metropolitan and rural areas, which fuels my advocacy for affordable, quality mental health care for all patients in all places.
(501) 825-4256 View (501) 825-4256
Photo of Dawn Lindsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Dawn Lindsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Bryant, AR 72022
You are not alone; we all struggle. I believe that everyone is a little broken by life and I am here to support anyone who has experienced this burden. My aim is to work collaboratively with you, to meet mutually set goals. In my office you will not be judged, nor will you feel displaced in my care. I believe patients should have a voice and a choice when it comes to the care provided to them. My treatment approach is multifaceted, as I follow a Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model, simply put, mental health and wellness is directly affected by a person’s genes, lifestyle, and social constructs.
You are not alone; we all struggle. I believe that everyone is a little broken by life and I am here to support anyone who has experienced this burden. My aim is to work collaboratively with you, to meet mutually set goals. In my office you will not be judged, nor will you feel displaced in my care. I believe patients should have a voice and a choice when it comes to the care provided to them. My treatment approach is multifaceted, as I follow a Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model, simply put, mental health and wellness is directly affected by a person’s genes, lifestyle, and social constructs.
(501) 300-2871 View (501) 300-2871
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 Briann Li Mandri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Briann Li Mandri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Bryant, AR 72022
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), offering a unique blend of professional and personal experience to provide a compassionate safe haven where your family's mental well-being is essential. I have 18 years of total nursing experience working in collaboration with multiple specialties. I offer comprehensive mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in providing holistic, compassionate, and individualized care. Offering personalized treatment plans that integrate therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), offering a unique blend of professional and personal experience to provide a compassionate safe haven where your family's mental well-being is essential. I have 18 years of total nursing experience working in collaboration with multiple specialties. I offer comprehensive mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in providing holistic, compassionate, and individualized care. Offering personalized treatment plans that integrate therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
(501) 382-1795 View (501) 382-1795

See more therapy options for Maumelle

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Maumelle, AR

< 10

Psychiatrists in Maumelle, AR who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% United Medical Resources (UMR)
89% Ambetter
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Maumelle, AR see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Maumelle?

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.