Psychiatrists in Clay County, MO
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
Cynthia Ruth Heck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
Richard Seldeen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, MO 64072
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
Molly Oligbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068 (Online Only)
Molly Oligbo, Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, brings expertise in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychiatric assessment. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri Kansas City (2013) and a Master of Science in Nursing from the same institution (2017), Molly has dedicated her career to comprehensive mental health services for adults. Her experience spans community mental health settings, psychiatric consults in medical floors, and a passion for establishing therapeutic relationships.
Molly Oligbo, Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, brings expertise in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychiatric assessment. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri Kansas City (2013) and a Master of Science in Nursing from the same institution (2017), Molly has dedicated her career to comprehensive mental health services for adults. Her experience spans community mental health settings, psychiatric consults in medical floors, and a passion for establishing therapeutic relationships.
Online Psychiatrists
Voted Top Doctor of Psychiatry in 435 Magazine, 2019 through 2022 by doctors. Will answer & schedule your appointment within 48 hrs. I listen, am non-judgmental & help you gain self-esteem, exercise better choices & increase your happy hours. I have MD & PhD degrees from Duke University, when MD's were taught to treat with psychotherapy as well as medications when warranted. As Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at KU, School of Medicine I've published widely about depression, bipolar & anxiety disorders, panic, OCD & PTSD. Will conduct sessions with FaceTime or Zoom. Probably out of network, NO insurance accepted.
Voted Top Doctor of Psychiatry in 435 Magazine, 2019 through 2022 by doctors. Will answer & schedule your appointment within 48 hrs. I listen, am non-judgmental & help you gain self-esteem, exercise better choices & increase your happy hours. I have MD & PhD degrees from Duke University, when MD's were taught to treat with psychotherapy as well as medications when warranted. As Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at KU, School of Medicine I've published widely about depression, bipolar & anxiety disorders, panic, OCD & PTSD. Will conduct sessions with FaceTime or Zoom. Probably out of network, NO insurance accepted.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Santissa Clapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64154 (Online Only)
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
Francis U. Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64081 (Online Only)
I came to the United States of America in 1997. In 2001, I joined the US Army where I served as a medic for 8 years. After my military service, I decided to go to Nursing School. I graduated with my MSN from Walden University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. "My passion for Psychiatric nursing is born out of my desire to assist vulnerable individuals attain possible health and independence through medication management and support."
I came to the United States of America in 1997. In 2001, I joined the US Army where I served as a medic for 8 years. After my military service, I decided to go to Nursing School. I graduated with my MSN from Walden University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. "My passion for Psychiatric nursing is born out of my desire to assist vulnerable individuals attain possible health and independence through medication management and support."
Katie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonville, MO 64701
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years combined experience. I help Individuals from age 10 through adulthood who are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, BPD, PTSD, ADHD, addiction and other psychiatric conditions, while assisting in working towards relief from unwanted thoughts, decreasing overwhelming guilt, anxiety, relief from nightmares and addiction symptoms and many other psychiatric symptoms while setting goals of regaining happiness, joy and wonder in their daily lives and restoring healthy productive relationships.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years combined experience. I help Individuals from age 10 through adulthood who are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, BPD, PTSD, ADHD, addiction and other psychiatric conditions, while assisting in working towards relief from unwanted thoughts, decreasing overwhelming guilt, anxiety, relief from nightmares and addiction symptoms and many other psychiatric symptoms while setting goals of regaining happiness, joy and wonder in their daily lives and restoring healthy productive relationships.
Trace Yule
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adrian, MO 64720 (Online Only)
Are you looking for comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment? At Code 1 Wellness we offer a holistic approach to treatment focusing on the unique needs of our community through personalized care plans and evidence based practices. Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program (MAT) combines FDA approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders and mental health conditions effectively. We provide medication management, counseling services, support groups and ongoing support and follow up to ensure long term recovery and prevent relapse.
Are you looking for comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment? At Code 1 Wellness we offer a holistic approach to treatment focusing on the unique needs of our community through personalized care plans and evidence based practices. Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program (MAT) combines FDA approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders and mental health conditions effectively. We provide medication management, counseling services, support groups and ongoing support and follow up to ensure long term recovery and prevent relapse.
At Oceanic Wellness, we understand the unique pressures faced by our patients today. Our specialized psychiatric services are designed to fit seamlessly into your demanding lifestyle, ensuring you receive the care you need without disruption. We offer a unique blend of traditional and innovative therapies, as well as flexible telemedicine options, to support your mental health wherever you are. Trust us to provide personalized care that respects your schedule and helps you thrive.
At Oceanic Wellness, we understand the unique pressures faced by our patients today. Our specialized psychiatric services are designed to fit seamlessly into your demanding lifestyle, ensuring you receive the care you need without disruption. We offer a unique blend of traditional and innovative therapies, as well as flexible telemedicine options, to support your mental health wherever you are. Trust us to provide personalized care that respects your schedule and helps you thrive.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
Amanda Smallmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonville, MO 64701
Ideal clients have a desire to live life to the fullest and are ready to work as a team to find the unique plan to meet their goals.
Ideal clients have a desire to live life to the fullest and are ready to work as a team to find the unique plan to meet their goals.
Reflections Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
See more therapy options for Clay County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Clay County, MO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Clay County, MO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Substance Use |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Clay County, MO see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Male | |
40% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Clay 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.