Psychiatrists in Logan County, OK

Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.

Jillian graduated with her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2018. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. During her clinical studies, she completed a rotation at Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital in Tulsa, OK. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Prior to attending PA school, she worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit.
Jillian graduated with her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2018. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. During her clinical studies, she completed a rotation at Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital in Tulsa, OK. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Prior to attending PA school, she worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit.

Skye graduated from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017, with distinction, with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program. Following graduation, she went on to complete an Emergency Medicine APC fellowship. Her undergraduate degree is from Oklahoma Baptist University, where she played collegiate volleyball. Before joining LifeStance Health in January of 2021, Skye worked as a PA in the Emergency Room. Skye desires to combine both modern medicine and a holistic approach to help women achieve their optimal health.
Skye graduated from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017, with distinction, with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program. Following graduation, she went on to complete an Emergency Medicine APC fellowship. Her undergraduate degree is from Oklahoma Baptist University, where she played collegiate volleyball. Before joining LifeStance Health in January of 2021, Skye worked as a PA in the Emergency Room. Skye desires to combine both modern medicine and a holistic approach to help women achieve their optimal health.

Jennifer graduated summa cum laude with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017. During her clinical studies, she completed a College of Medicine fellowship in the Obstetrics and Gynecology and at Hope Center of Edmond, providing prenatal/postpartum services. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. Upon graduation, she was awarded the OU Health Science Center Joseph J.
Jennifer graduated summa cum laude with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017. During her clinical studies, she completed a College of Medicine fellowship in the Obstetrics and Gynecology and at Hope Center of Edmond, providing prenatal/postpartum services. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. Upon graduation, she was awarded the OU Health Science Center Joseph J.

LifeStance Health in Oklahoma is a provider of ketamine infusion therapy. Ketamine therapy is used in the treatment of several psychiatric disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. LifeStance Health in Oklahoma also provides nasal spray Spravato (esketamine), another therapeutic option for treatment-resistant depression.
LifeStance Health in Oklahoma is a provider of ketamine infusion therapy. Ketamine therapy is used in the treatment of several psychiatric disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. LifeStance Health in Oklahoma also provides nasal spray Spravato (esketamine), another therapeutic option for treatment-resistant depression.

Natalie Evans, PMHNP Natalie Evans is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at OU Health Sciences Center and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at UT Health Sciences Center. Natalie believes that recovery is the goal of treatment and should be a holistic approach that strengthens all domains of a person's life. She feels care is best provided when provider and client engage in treatment as a team. In her spare time, Natalie enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with friends and family.
Natalie Evans, PMHNP Natalie Evans is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at OU Health Sciences Center and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at UT Health Sciences Center. Natalie believes that recovery is the goal of treatment and should be a holistic approach that strengthens all domains of a person's life. She feels care is best provided when provider and client engage in treatment as a team. In her spare time, Natalie enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with friends and family.

Karon Potter PA-C, RD, CSOWM, CDE graduated with her Master of Health Sciences with Distinction in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2016. Prior to PA school she received a Bachelor and Master's in nutrition from Texas Tech University. Karon is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and a Certified Diabetes Educator. Before joining LifeStance Karon worked for an Oklahoma City health system developing a comprehensive medical weight management program.
Karon Potter PA-C, RD, CSOWM, CDE graduated with her Master of Health Sciences with Distinction in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2016. Prior to PA school she received a Bachelor and Master's in nutrition from Texas Tech University. Karon is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and a Certified Diabetes Educator. Before joining LifeStance Karon worked for an Oklahoma City health system developing a comprehensive medical weight management program.
Online Psychiatrists

Welcome to Holistic Mental Health Wellness, where your mental health is treated with the care, compassion, and comprehensive approach it deserves. I am dedicated to providing personalized psychiatric services tailored to your unique needs, fostering emotional healing and overall well-being. We offer a wide range of mental health services, including medication management, therapy, and holistic strategies that nurture both mind and body. As a mental health provider, I aim to empower you with the tools, support, and understanding needed to create lasting positive change in your life.
Welcome to Holistic Mental Health Wellness, where your mental health is treated with the care, compassion, and comprehensive approach it deserves. I am dedicated to providing personalized psychiatric services tailored to your unique needs, fostering emotional healing and overall well-being. We offer a wide range of mental health services, including medication management, therapy, and holistic strategies that nurture both mind and body. As a mental health provider, I aim to empower you with the tools, support, and understanding needed to create lasting positive change in your life.

Rebecca Cline is a dual board-certified Nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from Graceland University in Independence, Missouri with a post master's degree in Family Nurse Practitioner. She later extended her scope of practice after attending The University of Cincinnati, in Cincinnati, Ohio with a post master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Rebecca believes in a collaborative, interdisciplinary care approach for the best practice outcomes for her patients.
Rebecca Cline is a dual board-certified Nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from Graceland University in Independence, Missouri with a post master's degree in Family Nurse Practitioner. She later extended her scope of practice after attending The University of Cincinnati, in Cincinnati, Ohio with a post master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Rebecca believes in a collaborative, interdisciplinary care approach for the best practice outcomes for her patients.

Hello, I'm Laurie Ray, a Board Certified PA-C with a Certificate of Advanced Qualification in psychiatry and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide quality care to patients. My recent work includes inpatient/outpatient services for those suffering from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunction and OCD. Caring for Veterans, couples and individuals, I have learned to personalize patient care. My promise is to provide an open, safe and non-judgemental environment in which we can work together to achieve your optimal mental health.
Hello, I'm Laurie Ray, a Board Certified PA-C with a Certificate of Advanced Qualification in psychiatry and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide quality care to patients. My recent work includes inpatient/outpatient services for those suffering from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunction and OCD. Caring for Veterans, couples and individuals, I have learned to personalize patient care. My promise is to provide an open, safe and non-judgemental environment in which we can work together to achieve your optimal mental health.

Taking care of your mental health is one of the most important steps toward overall well-being, and I’m here to support you in that journey. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to develop treatment plans that are both effective and tailored to each individual’s needs. My goal is to help patients achieve stability, symptom relief, and an improved quality of life. I believe in a collaborative approach—one that prioritizes open communication, education, and shared decision-making. I take the time to listen, answer questions, and ensure that each patient feels confident in their treatment plan.
Taking care of your mental health is one of the most important steps toward overall well-being, and I’m here to support you in that journey. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to develop treatment plans that are both effective and tailored to each individual’s needs. My goal is to help patients achieve stability, symptom relief, and an improved quality of life. I believe in a collaborative approach—one that prioritizes open communication, education, and shared decision-making. I take the time to listen, answer questions, and ensure that each patient feels confident in their treatment plan.

I believe that true healing happens when you feel safe, seen, and supported. My goal is to create a space where you can be open and honest without fear of judgment.
I believe that true healing happens when you feel safe, seen, and supported. My goal is to create a space where you can be open and honest without fear of judgment.

Dr. Sean Whelan delivers premium, client-focused psychiatric care marked by clinical excellence, discretion, and direct access—no gatekeepers, no delays. He has over 20 years of experience. Specializing in medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and bipolar disorder. Dr. Whelan offers extremely competitive, transparent pricing and highly personalized support. His ideal age from is from 17-79 years old. He prioritizes expertise, responsiveness, and a seamless, elevated care experience.
Sliding fee scale options may be available.
Read his reviews at Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, PLLC.
Dr. Sean Whelan delivers premium, client-focused psychiatric care marked by clinical excellence, discretion, and direct access—no gatekeepers, no delays. He has over 20 years of experience. Specializing in medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and bipolar disorder. Dr. Whelan offers extremely competitive, transparent pricing and highly personalized support. His ideal age from is from 17-79 years old. He prioritizes expertise, responsiveness, and a seamless, elevated care experience.
Sliding fee scale options may be available.
Read his reviews at Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, PLLC.

Sees 6+. Accepting new patients.
Andrew is a Physician Assistant practicing in psychiatry since 2009. He graduated from Missouri State University in 2008 with a Masters Degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
Andrew is a native of Tulsa. He attended Booker T. Washington High School and later Langston University-Tulsa, where he earned an undergraduate degree in psychology.
Andrew has worked in multiple outpatient psychiatric clinics in Tulsa with all ages. He takes a harm reduction approach in all areas of treatment.
Sees 6+. Accepting new patients.
Andrew is a Physician Assistant practicing in psychiatry since 2009. He graduated from Missouri State University in 2008 with a Masters Degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
Andrew is a native of Tulsa. He attended Booker T. Washington High School and later Langston University-Tulsa, where he earned an undergraduate degree in psychology.
Andrew has worked in multiple outpatient psychiatric clinics in Tulsa with all ages. He takes a harm reduction approach in all areas of treatment.

Accepting new patients. Brenda is an Adult Geriatric (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated summa cum laude from Regis College and Oral Roberts University with her MSN and BSN, respectively. Brenda approaches each patient as a unique, extraordinary individual facilitating a whole-person, patient-centered approach. Although medication interventions are discussed, Brenda also encourages other appropriate modalities for optimal mental health, including a healthy lifestyle. She is happily married and enjoys visiting the ocean, snorkeling, cycling, and music.
Accepting new patients. Brenda is an Adult Geriatric (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated summa cum laude from Regis College and Oral Roberts University with her MSN and BSN, respectively. Brenda approaches each patient as a unique, extraordinary individual facilitating a whole-person, patient-centered approach. Although medication interventions are discussed, Brenda also encourages other appropriate modalities for optimal mental health, including a healthy lifestyle. She is happily married and enjoys visiting the ocean, snorkeling, cycling, and music.

Jozeca Meyer, PA, is dedicated to helping individuals in Oklahoma navigate a range of psychiatric conditions. With her extensive experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, Jozeca provides comprehensive medication management to support her patients' mental and emotional wellbeing. Her work spans across various age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, making her practice accessible to a wide range of individuals. She focuses on fostering longterm mental health stability for those struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma, among other conditions.
Jozeca Meyer, PA, is dedicated to helping individuals in Oklahoma navigate a range of psychiatric conditions. With her extensive experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, Jozeca provides comprehensive medication management to support her patients' mental and emotional wellbeing. Her work spans across various age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, making her practice accessible to a wide range of individuals. She focuses on fostering longterm mental health stability for those struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma, among other conditions.

Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.
Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.

Greetings, I'm Judith, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. I specialize in medication management. My expertise spans a range of conditions including adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and others. Listening is at the core of my approach. I will make sure you feel heard and understood. Collaboratively, we will identify the medication regimen best suited to your specific needs and current situation. See my website: www.calmingcreekcare.com.
Greetings, I'm Judith, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. I specialize in medication management. My expertise spans a range of conditions including adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and others. Listening is at the core of my approach. I will make sure you feel heard and understood. Collaboratively, we will identify the medication regimen best suited to your specific needs and current situation. See my website: www.calmingcreekcare.com.

Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
My name is Abiodun (Abby) Adeyiga. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving the Oklahoma City and surrounding areas. At Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services, we have many years of experience in providing comprehensive care to acute and chronic mental health patients. We have expertise in creating individualized treatment plans, administering medications, performing mental health assessments and psychological testing. We collaborate strongly with healthcare professionals and other disciplines to ensure quality patient care.
My name is Abiodun (Abby) Adeyiga. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving the Oklahoma City and surrounding areas. At Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services, we have many years of experience in providing comprehensive care to acute and chronic mental health patients. We have expertise in creating individualized treatment plans, administering medications, performing mental health assessments and psychological testing. We collaborate strongly with healthcare professionals and other disciplines to ensure quality patient care.

It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
See more therapy options for Logan County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Logan County, OK
< 10
Psychiatrists in Logan County, OK who prioritize treating:
86% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
71% | ADHD |
57% | Trauma and PTSD |
57% | Bipolar Disorder |
57% | Sleep or Insomnia |
43% | Eating Disorders |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Logan County, OK see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Logan 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.