Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK

Photo of Prudencia Ijeoma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Prudencia Ijeoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs.
Hi there, my name is Prudencia Ijeoma and I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach is patient-centered, holistic and individualized to meet each person's unique needs.
(405) 870-2980 View (405) 870-2980
Photo of Gary L Massad, Psychiatrist, MD
Gary L Massad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
With a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Dr. Gary Massad stands as a beacon in the medical community. He is a psychiatrist, widely recognized for his expertise in sports medicine, orthopedics, and workers' compensation. He dedicates his extensive knowledge and experience to the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Dr. Massad's approach to patient care is deeply rooted in his passion for listening to and understanding the unique needs of each individual and looks forward to working with the client where they are at in their current life path.
With a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Dr. Gary Massad stands as a beacon in the medical community. He is a psychiatrist, widely recognized for his expertise in sports medicine, orthopedics, and workers' compensation. He dedicates his extensive knowledge and experience to the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Dr. Massad's approach to patient care is deeply rooted in his passion for listening to and understanding the unique needs of each individual and looks forward to working with the client where they are at in their current life path.
(405) 987-4023 View (405) 987-4023
Photo of Skye Helker, Physician Assistant, MHS, PA-C
Skye Helker
Physician Assistant, MHS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
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.
(405) 296-7026 View (405) 296-7026
Photo of Keyanndra Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Keyanndra Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Taking the first step toward mental health treatment can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in medication management for children, adolescents, and adults, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I believe that every patient deserves to be heard, valued, and actively involved in their treatment. Mental health care should be a collaborative process, where your concerns, goals, and experiences guide the treatment plan.
Taking the first step toward mental health treatment can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in medication management for children, adolescents, and adults, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. I believe that every patient deserves to be heard, valued, and actively involved in their treatment. Mental health care should be a collaborative process, where your concerns, goals, and experiences guide the treatment plan.
(405) 784-5925 View (405) 784-5925
Photo of Imelda Garner - Apex Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Apex Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
Fast and easy to schedule! With a decade of experience and expertise, our goal is to provide medication management for mental health disorders including anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, and sleep disorders. We provide telehealth services or in-person visits with immediate openings and rescheduling. Call us today!
Fast and easy to schedule! With a decade of experience and expertise, our goal is to provide medication management for mental health disorders including anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, and sleep disorders. We provide telehealth services or in-person visits with immediate openings and rescheduling. Call us today!
(405) 276-9316 View (405) 276-9316
Photo of Relindis Tita, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Relindis Tita
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, mood disorder, OCD, PTSD, issues concerning LGBTQ community, and substance use disorders. I enjoy my career and am always eager to learn and see many individuals recover from these disorders. My career goal is to give the best nursing services at each capacity and level. I have the knowledge and expertise to guide you toward a happier life. I can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, mood disorder, OCD, PTSD, issues concerning LGBTQ community, and substance use disorders. I enjoy my career and am always eager to learn and see many individuals recover from these disorders. My career goal is to give the best nursing services at each capacity and level. I have the knowledge and expertise to guide you toward a happier life. I can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
(405) 925-1905 View (405) 925-1905
Photo of Abiodun Adeyiga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Abiodun Adeyiga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73107
My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, who seeks compassionate, personalized mental health care. They want to understand their symptoms, learn coping strategies, and achieve stability and peace. Their goals include managing daily stress, improving relationships, and feeling empowered to live a fulfilling life. They’re motivated to explore evidence-based strategies, and they value a collaborative, culturally sensitive approach that addresses both their immediate concerns and long-term well-being.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, who seeks compassionate, personalized mental health care. They want to understand their symptoms, learn coping strategies, and achieve stability and peace. Their goals include managing daily stress, improving relationships, and feeling empowered to live a fulfilling life. They’re motivated to explore evidence-based strategies, and they value a collaborative, culturally sensitive approach that addresses both their immediate concerns and long-term well-being.
(405) 486-0375 View (405) 486-0375
Photo of Karyn Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Karyn Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your mental well-being matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health needs. My practice is founded on the belief that every person deserves access to effective treatment and the opportunity to thrive in their daily lives. For many individuals, the decision to seek psychiatric care can be daunting, and I understand the courage it takes to take that first step towards healing.
Your mental well-being matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health needs. My practice is founded on the belief that every person deserves access to effective treatment and the opportunity to thrive in their daily lives. For many individuals, the decision to seek psychiatric care can be daunting, and I understand the courage it takes to take that first step towards healing.
(405) 450-7167 View (405) 450-7167
Photo of Shyvonne Gray, Psychiatrist, MD
Shyvonne Gray
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Dr. Shyvonne Gray received her M.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She then completed four years of residency in general psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. After completing residency, she treated patients with severe mental illness at Jacobi Medical Center in New York City. She then moved back to Oklahoma, where she served as the medical director of Oakwood Springs Hospital in Oklahoma City. She comes to us from her Edmond private practice, Modern Mindcare, where she specialized in mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Shyvonne Gray received her M.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She then completed four years of residency in general psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. After completing residency, she treated patients with severe mental illness at Jacobi Medical Center in New York City. She then moved back to Oklahoma, where she served as the medical director of Oakwood Springs Hospital in Oklahoma City. She comes to us from her Edmond private practice, Modern Mindcare, where she specialized in mood and anxiety disorders.
(405) 369-8036 View (405) 369-8036
Photo of Ashley Wigington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Ashley Wigington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal as a provider has always been to create a space where every patient feels heard, comfortable, and welcomed. I am passionate about providing care that not only addresses mental health concerns but also supports the overall well-being of my patients.
My goal as a provider has always been to create a space where every patient feels heard, comfortable, and welcomed. I am passionate about providing care that not only addresses mental health concerns but also supports the overall well-being of my patients.
(405) 775-9872 View (405) 775-9872
Photo of Dr. Brett Abernethy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Brett Abernethy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Dr. Abernethy is a board-certified psychiatrist. He has experience treating a wide scope of mental health related symptomatology among diverse populations ranging from mood and anxiety related issues to behavioral manifestations of Autism and other developmental disorders. Dr. Abernethy is willing to treat the younger population, and actually a majority of Dr. Abernethy's experience over the past decade has been with treating Children and Adolescents including but not limited to ADHD symptoms, conduct/behavioral related issues, anxiety, teenage depression.
Dr. Abernethy is a board-certified psychiatrist. He has experience treating a wide scope of mental health related symptomatology among diverse populations ranging from mood and anxiety related issues to behavioral manifestations of Autism and other developmental disorders. Dr. Abernethy is willing to treat the younger population, and actually a majority of Dr. Abernethy's experience over the past decade has been with treating Children and Adolescents including but not limited to ADHD symptoms, conduct/behavioral related issues, anxiety, teenage depression.
(405) 643-6337 View (405) 643-6337
Photo of Lyndsey Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Lyndsey Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Embracing mental health care is not just about managing symptoms—it’s a pathway to understanding oneself, cultivating resilience, and developing coping strategies for life's challenges. My approach is collaborative, valuing your unique perspective and lived experiences. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership, working together to explore the depths of your concerns, set achievable goals, and ultimately empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.
Embracing mental health care is not just about managing symptoms—it’s a pathway to understanding oneself, cultivating resilience, and developing coping strategies for life's challenges. My approach is collaborative, valuing your unique perspective and lived experiences. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership, working together to explore the depths of your concerns, set achievable goals, and ultimately empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.
(405) 450-7167 View (405) 450-7167
Photo of James Henneberry, Psychiatrist, MD
James Henneberry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood, post-traumatic, psychotic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. As an out of network provider, I offer services of psychotherapy (with or without medications) and focused medication visits. If you have established a relationship with another therapist and would like to continue to work with them, I am able to offer medication only visits.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood, post-traumatic, psychotic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. As an out of network provider, I offer services of psychotherapy (with or without medications) and focused medication visits. If you have established a relationship with another therapist and would like to continue to work with them, I am able to offer medication only visits.
(405) 582-3799 View (405) 582-3799
Photo of Maris Heigle, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Maris Heigle
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
Hello! My name is Maris Heigle, and I'm a licensed and certified physician assistant (PA) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide mental health care to adult patients. As a psychiatry PA, I work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs. I am dedicated to providing quality care by incorporating both medication management and therapy into treatment plans as needed. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for patients, focused on improving both self-compassion and interpersonal skills to improve wellbeing and achieve optimal mental health.
Hello! My name is Maris Heigle, and I'm a licensed and certified physician assistant (PA) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide mental health care to adult patients. As a psychiatry PA, I work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs. I am dedicated to providing quality care by incorporating both medication management and therapy into treatment plans as needed. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for patients, focused on improving both self-compassion and interpersonal skills to improve wellbeing and achieve optimal mental health.
(405) 725-2696 View (405) 725-2696
Photo of Esinam Adotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esinam Adotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
As a nurse practitioner, my ideal client is someone seeking support to address mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD. They value a collaborative approach to care, are open to exploring treatment options, and are motivated to achieve their goals. Their needs include empathetic listening, tailored medication management, and tools for coping with daily stressors. Their goals are to feel empowered, regain control of their mental health, and build a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood and supported because they recognize the importance of mental well-being in achieving overall happiness and success.
As a nurse practitioner, my ideal client is someone seeking support to address mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD. They value a collaborative approach to care, are open to exploring treatment options, and are motivated to achieve their goals. Their needs include empathetic listening, tailored medication management, and tools for coping with daily stressors. Their goals are to feel empowered, regain control of their mental health, and build a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood and supported because they recognize the importance of mental well-being in achieving overall happiness and success.
(405) 477-4941 View (405) 477-4941
Photo of Brooke Thompson Peyton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Brooke Thompson Peyton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I provide compassionate, thoughtful and individualized care and will work together with you to help you improve your mental and emotional well being.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I provide compassionate, thoughtful and individualized care and will work together with you to help you improve your mental and emotional well being.
(405) 369-8860 View (405) 369-8860
Photo of Ernest Abunaw - TASEL Health LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
TASEL Health LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
We are accepting new patients at Tasel Health. Our board-certified psychiatrist offers in-person and Telehealth appointments. Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or feeling as if your life has no purpose? Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Then, welcome to Tasel Health. At Tasel Health, high-quality mental health care is more than treating illness - it is a journey to achieving wellness. Our approach is to help clients form more effective strategies for managing stress so they can feel better and take control of their circumstances.
We are accepting new patients at Tasel Health. Our board-certified psychiatrist offers in-person and Telehealth appointments. Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or feeling as if your life has no purpose? Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Then, welcome to Tasel Health. At Tasel Health, high-quality mental health care is more than treating illness - it is a journey to achieving wellness. Our approach is to help clients form more effective strategies for managing stress so they can feel better and take control of their circumstances.
(405) 934-1681 View (405) 934-1681
Photo of Francisca Nebe - Caretouch Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Caretouch Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients in WA, TX, VA, OK, OR and CO. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree (DNP) .She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
Accepting New Patients in WA, TX, VA, OK, OR and CO. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree (DNP) .She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
(509) 348-4366 View (509) 348-4366
Stephanie Martindale
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Hi, I’m Stephanie Martindale, a Physician Assistant at Tasel Health. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, I’m passionate about providing holistic, patient-centered care to individuals and families. My focus is on mental health, and I strive to help my patients navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding.
Hi, I’m Stephanie Martindale, a Physician Assistant at Tasel Health. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, I’m passionate about providing holistic, patient-centered care to individuals and families. My focus is on mental health, and I strive to help my patients navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding.
(405) 934-1681 View (405) 934-1681
Photo of Dr. Sean Whelan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sean Whelan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73142
Looking for expert psychiatric care in Oklahoma City that’s responsive, discreet, and competitively priced? At Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, you’ll have direct access to Dr. Sean Whelan—no refill delays, no middlemen. We provide private-pay medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and bipolar disorder. Ideal for high-functioning adults who value compassionate care, clinical expertise, and full discretion. No waitlists. Transparent pricing. Personalized treatment. No more anxiety as to whether you provider will phone you back and/or no more anxiety around refills. Quick response time!
Looking for expert psychiatric care in Oklahoma City that’s responsive, discreet, and competitively priced? At Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, you’ll have direct access to Dr. Sean Whelan—no refill delays, no middlemen. We provide private-pay medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and bipolar disorder. Ideal for high-functioning adults who value compassionate care, clinical expertise, and full discretion. No waitlists. Transparent pricing. Personalized treatment. No more anxiety as to whether you provider will phone you back and/or no more anxiety around refills. Quick response time!
(405) 251-6697 View (405) 251-6697
1

See more therapy options for Oklahoma City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK

80+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
87% Aetna
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Oklahoma City?

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.