Psychiatrists in Moore, OK

Photo of Audrey Spear, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Audrey Spear
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Audrey Donovan, PMHNP Audrey Donovan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Bachelor s Degree in Biology from the University of Central Oklahoma, a Bachelor s Degree in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma and a Master s Degree in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Midwestern State University.
Audrey Donovan, PMHNP Audrey Donovan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Bachelor s Degree in Biology from the University of Central Oklahoma, a Bachelor s Degree in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma and a Master s Degree in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Midwestern State University.
(855) 743-0911 View (855) 743-0911
Photo of Rachel Dalthorp, Psychiatrist, MD
Rachel Dalthorp
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Dr. Rachel Dalthorp received her medical degree from the University Of Oklahoma College Of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a four year psychiatric residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center where she focused on developing expertise in the assessment and treatment of mood disorders related to the female reproductive cycle. Dr. Dalthorp completed specialized training in the treatment of female sexual disorders and the use of psychedelic medications to treat depression.
Dr. Rachel Dalthorp received her medical degree from the University Of Oklahoma College Of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a four year psychiatric residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center where she focused on developing expertise in the assessment and treatment of mood disorders related to the female reproductive cycle. Dr. Dalthorp completed specialized training in the treatment of female sexual disorders and the use of psychedelic medications to treat depression.
(405) 449-5265 View (405) 449-5265
Photo of Dr. Eric L. Reynolds - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
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.
(405) 648-6222 View (405) 648-6222
Photo of Jennifer Dunning, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jennifer Dunning
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
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.
(405) 925-0848 View (405) 925-0848
Photo of Danielle Sandbothe, Psychiatrist, DO
Danielle Sandbothe
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Dr. Danielle Sandbothe found her way to Oklahoma from Missouri by way of Indiana. She grew up in Jefferson City, MO and had received her bachelor's degree in Agriculture Science from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. Feeling called to serve others in a different field, she pursued medicine which led to her receiving her medical degree from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Indianapolis, IN.
Dr. Danielle Sandbothe found her way to Oklahoma from Missouri by way of Indiana. She grew up in Jefferson City, MO and had received her bachelor's degree in Agriculture Science from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. Feeling called to serve others in a different field, she pursued medicine which led to her receiving her medical degree from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Indianapolis, IN.
(405) 450-7249 View (405) 450-7249
Photo of Eric Reynolds, Psychiatrist, MD
Eric Reynolds
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Eric L. Reynolds is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2024. He studied at University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine. Eric provides comprehensive psychiatric services to both adolescents and adults of all backgrounds, including new patient evaluations, routine medication management, and psychotherapy. Outside of work, Eric enjoys lifting weights, chess, and video games.
Eric L. Reynolds is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2024. He studied at University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine. Eric provides comprehensive psychiatric services to both adolescents and adults of all backgrounds, including new patient evaluations, routine medication management, and psychotherapy. Outside of work, Eric enjoys lifting weights, chess, and video games.
(405) 716-4204 View (405) 716-4204
Photo of Caroline Whitaker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Caroline Whitaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Caroline Whitaker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences from Oklahoma State University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and a Master of Science in Nursing-Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at Saint Louis University. Caroline strives to see every patient as a unique individual and treats them as a "whole person" perspective by combining both modern medicine and a holistic approach to help achieve their optimal mental and physical health.
Caroline Whitaker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences from Oklahoma State University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and a Master of Science in Nursing-Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at Saint Louis University. Caroline strives to see every patient as a unique individual and treats them as a "whole person" perspective by combining both modern medicine and a holistic approach to help achieve their optimal mental and physical health.
(405) 645-5037 View (405) 645-5037
Photo of Jared Keck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Jared Keck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Jared Keck is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. His educational journey started at the University of Oklahoma where he graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science, with a focus on Health and Exercise Sciences. In 2015, Jared decided to go into nursing, graduating with his Associates Degree in Nursing in 2016 from Oklahoma City Community College. His Bachelor of Science in Nursing was acquired in 2017 from Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
Jared Keck is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. His educational journey started at the University of Oklahoma where he graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science, with a focus on Health and Exercise Sciences. In 2015, Jared decided to go into nursing, graduating with his Associates Degree in Nursing in 2016 from Oklahoma City Community College. His Bachelor of Science in Nursing was acquired in 2017 from Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
(405) 925-1849 View (405) 925-1849
Photo of Magdaline Epie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Magdaline Epie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Magdaline Epie, a compassionate and experienced prescriber at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to supporting the mental health needs of individuals across Oklahoma. She provides medication management services to children, teens, adults, and seniors, fostering a safe and nonjudgmental environment for clients to address their mental health challenges. Her practice focuses on treating conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, helping patients achieve greater stability and improved quality of life.
Magdaline Epie, a compassionate and experienced prescriber at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to supporting the mental health needs of individuals across Oklahoma. She provides medication management services to children, teens, adults, and seniors, fostering a safe and nonjudgmental environment for clients to address their mental health challenges. Her practice focuses on treating conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, helping patients achieve greater stability and improved quality of life.
(405) 817-5854 View (405) 817-5854
Photo of Rachel Dalthorp - Ketamine Therapy at LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Ketamine Therapy at LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
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.
(405) 927-5025 View (405) 927-5025
Photo of Dr. Rachel Dalthorp - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
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.
(405) 393-8797 View (405) 393-8797
Photo of Lindsay Gavit, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsay Gavit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Lindsay completed her Masters of Nursing in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Georgetown University and her Post-Master s Certificate as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through Florida State University. She also holds a Bachelor of Nursing from Texas A M University-Corpus Christi, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Texas A M University. Prior to practicing at LifeStance Health, Lindsay worked in urgent care.
Lindsay completed her Masters of Nursing in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Georgetown University and her Post-Master s Certificate as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through Florida State University. She also holds a Bachelor of Nursing from Texas A M University-Corpus Christi, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Texas A M University. Prior to practicing at LifeStance Health, Lindsay worked in urgent care.
(405) 931-0788 View (405) 931-0788
Photo of Susan Barker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Susan Barker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Susan Barker APRN-CNP, FNP, PMHNP, graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Graceland University in 2015 and has also obtained a post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Florida State University in 2021. Prior to NP school, she received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Central University in 2002, and worked at as a registered nurse at a local hospital for 13 years. Before joining LifeStance Health, Susan worked as an NP in a busy OB/GYN clinic.
Susan Barker APRN-CNP, FNP, PMHNP, graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Graceland University in 2015 and has also obtained a post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Florida State University in 2021. Prior to NP school, she received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Central University in 2002, and worked at as a registered nurse at a local hospital for 13 years. Before joining LifeStance Health, Susan worked as an NP in a busy OB/GYN clinic.
(405) 972-8550 View (405) 972-8550
Photo of Katharine Raun, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Katharine Raun
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Kate Raun, PA, brings a compassionate and comprehensive approach to mental health care at LifeStance Health in Oklahoma. With a dedication to providing an open, supportive, and nonjudgmental space, Kate helps patients explore the various factors that contribute to their mental health. Serving patients across Oklahoma, she prioritizes understanding each patient's story and goals for the future, emphasizing the importance of a complete history in developing effective treatment plans.
Kate Raun, PA, brings a compassionate and comprehensive approach to mental health care at LifeStance Health in Oklahoma. With a dedication to providing an open, supportive, and nonjudgmental space, Kate helps patients explore the various factors that contribute to their mental health. Serving patients across Oklahoma, she prioritizes understanding each patient's story and goals for the future, emphasizing the importance of a complete history in developing effective treatment plans.
(405) 914-6612 View (405) 914-6612
Photo of Yvone Fonyuy Wirngo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNOCCC, NP
Yvone Fonyuy Wirngo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNOCCC, NP
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Yvone Wirngo, an experienced and compassionate prescriber at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to providing personalized mental health care to individuals in Oklahoma. She offers services to children, seniors, and adults, focusing on individual therapy, medication management, and support for substance abuse recovery. With a patientcentered approach, Yvone helps clients address concerns such as ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, fostering resilience and wellbeing through evidencebased practices. Yvone has a particular passion for supporting clients dealing with PTSD, sleep disorders, and childhood behavior issues.
Yvone Wirngo, an experienced and compassionate prescriber at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to providing personalized mental health care to individuals in Oklahoma. She offers services to children, seniors, and adults, focusing on individual therapy, medication management, and support for substance abuse recovery. With a patientcentered approach, Yvone helps clients address concerns such as ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, fostering resilience and wellbeing through evidencebased practices. Yvone has a particular passion for supporting clients dealing with PTSD, sleep disorders, and childhood behavior issues.
(405) 784-6392 View (405) 784-6392
Photo of Dr. Fadalia Kim - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
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.
(405) 784-5692 View (405) 784-5692
Photo of Fadalia Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Fadalia Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Dr. Fadalia Kim is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Kim assists in initial assessments to determine the patient's need for treatment. If treatment is needed, Dr. Kim provides medication management and assists in a treatment team approach for wrap around services. Outside of work, Dr. Kim enjoys gardening, baking, and going to Thunder games. She spends most of her free time at her kids' sporting events, which is her number one joyful activity.
Dr. Fadalia Kim is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Kim assists in initial assessments to determine the patient's need for treatment. If treatment is needed, Dr. Kim provides medication management and assists in a treatment team approach for wrap around services. Outside of work, Dr. Kim enjoys gardening, baking, and going to Thunder games. She spends most of her free time at her kids' sporting events, which is her number one joyful activity.
(405) 584-6356 View (405) 584-6356
Photo of Cassandra Gentry, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Cassandra Gentry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Cassie completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2005. She received her undergraduate degree in Microbiology from the University of Oklahoma in 2002 and has previously worked in primary care and urgent care. She has been working in psychiatry since 2018 and has a special interest in interventional psychiatry. Cassie maintains a professional membership in the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants and the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
Cassie completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2005. She received her undergraduate degree in Microbiology from the University of Oklahoma in 2002 and has previously worked in primary care and urgent care. She has been working in psychiatry since 2018 and has a special interest in interventional psychiatry. Cassie maintains a professional membership in the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants and the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
(405) 450-7634 View (405) 450-7634
Photo of Annie Cloud, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Annie Cloud
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Annie Cloud PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Oklahoma City University in 2018. Prior to PA school, she received a Bachelor of Nutritional Sciences from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2011. Before joining LifeStance Health, she worked as a PA in the Emergency Room and Urgent Care. Her main goal is helping her patients feel their best mentally, physically, and emotionally. In her free time, Annie enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, running, and fostering dogs through a local rescue.
Annie Cloud PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Oklahoma City University in 2018. Prior to PA school, she received a Bachelor of Nutritional Sciences from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2011. Before joining LifeStance Health, she worked as a PA in the Emergency Room and Urgent Care. Her main goal is helping her patients feel their best mentally, physically, and emotionally. In her free time, Annie enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, running, and fostering dogs through a local rescue.
(405) 925-0874 View (405) 925-0874
Photo of Teresa Miller, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Teresa Miller
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Moore, OK 73160
Teresa completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2007. She got her Bachelors of Science in Chemistry and Biology from Southern Nazarene University. Before joining Balance Women's Health, Teresa worked as a PA in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility since 2011. She has a special interest in treating women who struggle with PCOS, infertility, and other hormonal issues. Previous to her time in REI, she worked four years in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. She maintains professional membership in the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants.
Teresa completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2007. She got her Bachelors of Science in Chemistry and Biology from Southern Nazarene University. Before joining Balance Women's Health, Teresa worked as a PA in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility since 2011. She has a special interest in treating women who struggle with PCOS, infertility, and other hormonal issues. Previous to her time in REI, she worked four years in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. She maintains professional membership in the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants.
(405) 993-5279 View (405) 993-5279
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Moore, OK

30+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in Moore, OK who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
86% Depression
81% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
92% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Moore, OK see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Moore?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.