Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR

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.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. I am qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. I have experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. I am qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. I have experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.

Deena Garner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, PNP
Verified Verified
North Little Rock, AR 72116
Are you tired of feeling like every day is a struggle? Are you ready to change your life? Are you looking for more joy, motivation, focus, or just need some support? I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management and supportive therapy of individuals with a variety of mental health issues. Some of the most common are trauma-related disorders, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, as well as issues with grief, self-esteem and self-worth issues. I enjoy working with families and couples to improve their communication and interactions.
Are you tired of feeling like every day is a struggle? Are you ready to change your life? Are you looking for more joy, motivation, focus, or just need some support? I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management and supportive therapy of individuals with a variety of mental health issues. Some of the most common are trauma-related disorders, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, as well as issues with grief, self-esteem and self-worth issues. I enjoy working with families and couples to improve their communication and interactions.

Emily Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
Everyone is dealing with something in life; no one should struggle alone. I collaborate with my patients to assess their mental health and well-being, set goals, and empower them to achieve those goals. My approach to treatment is multi-dimensional and person-centered. My office is a judgment-free area where people from all walks of life are valued and welcomed. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I obtained my RN from Baptist in 2009, my BSN from UALR in 2017, and my MSN from Walden University in 2021. I am board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Everyone is dealing with something in life; no one should struggle alone. I collaborate with my patients to assess their mental health and well-being, set goals, and empower them to achieve those goals. My approach to treatment is multi-dimensional and person-centered. My office is a judgment-free area where people from all walks of life are valued and welcomed. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I obtained my RN from Baptist in 2009, my BSN from UALR in 2017, and my MSN from Walden University in 2021. I am board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Jessica Wainwright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72210
Not accepting new clients
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. I have ten years experience working in the healthcare field, working in diverse backgrounds in various settings including teaching hospitals, inpatient care, outpatient care and detox rehab. I consider the entire person and how they function within their social and cultural environment rather than simply a constellation of symptoms. I believes that the best treatment results from the bio-psycho-social approach to mental health.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. I have ten years experience working in the healthcare field, working in diverse backgrounds in various settings including teaching hospitals, inpatient care, outpatient care and detox rehab. I consider the entire person and how they function within their social and cultural environment rather than simply a constellation of symptoms. I believes that the best treatment results from the bio-psycho-social approach to mental health.

Lindsay Van Parys
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, CPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72116
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems and substance misuse. I pride myself on making patients feel comfortable and heard. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals. Each client gets my work cell number as well.
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems and substance misuse. I pride myself on making patients feel comfortable and heard. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals. Each client gets my work cell number as well.

Ariella Frazier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
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.

Have you found yourself navigating a crossroads of emotions, where challenges feel overwhelming and the way forward seems unclear? You're not alone. My name is Dr. Andreya Reed, and as a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult mental health, I'm here to guide you on a journey of understanding, healing, and rediscovery. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your unique experiences with compassion and without judgment.
Have you found yourself navigating a crossroads of emotions, where challenges feel overwhelming and the way forward seems unclear? You're not alone. My name is Dr. Andreya Reed, and as a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult mental health, I'm here to guide you on a journey of understanding, healing, and rediscovery. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your unique experiences with compassion and without judgment.

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.

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.

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.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

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.

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.

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.

Destiny Sellers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 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.

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.

Dr. Rhonda Mattox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.

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.

Jennifer Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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!

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.
See more therapy options for Pulaski County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR
50+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
87% | Trauma and PTSD |
87% | Medication Management |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
74% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pulaski County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.