Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK

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.

Betterway Psychiatry and Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
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.
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.

Alyssa Smith, APRN-PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Reeder Psychiatry specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients of all ages with psychiatric mental illnesses. Alyssa received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Eastern Kentucky where she graduated as a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Theta Tau with a 4.0 GPA. Alyssa has over 12 years experience in the medical field with a background in surgery, administration, pharmacy, and psychiatry.
Alyssa Smith, APRN-PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Reeder Psychiatry specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients of all ages with psychiatric mental illnesses. Alyssa received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Eastern Kentucky where she graduated as a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Theta Tau with a 4.0 GPA. Alyssa has over 12 years experience in the medical field with a background in surgery, administration, pharmacy, and psychiatry.

I enjoy working with individuals who have had struggles and are working toward improving the quality of their lives. These struggles include depression; anxiety; mood issues, such as irritability; fair or poor sleep and other issues that arise as a result of their struggles.
My clinical goals include helping individuals gain more understanding about symptoms, available choices to add quality to their journey, and to encourage them to find a therapist, if they are interested.
I enjoy working with individuals who have had struggles and are working toward improving the quality of their lives. These struggles include depression; anxiety; mood issues, such as irritability; fair or poor sleep and other issues that arise as a result of their struggles.
My clinical goals include helping individuals gain more understanding about symptoms, available choices to add quality to their journey, and to encourage them to find a therapist, if they are interested.

Welcome! I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders and issues concerning the LGBT community. Also, I work with addiction medicine and is committed to helping as many patients in need as I can. With patient safety in mind, I am more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage. Also, private pay is available to suit your needs as well. Why wait? Call us today!
Welcome! I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders and issues concerning the LGBT community. Also, I work with addiction medicine and is committed to helping as many patients in need as I can. With patient safety in mind, I am more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage. Also, private pay is available to suit your needs as well. Why wait? Call us today!

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.

Ebonie Pankey is Nurse Practitioner who specializes as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Oklahoma and then earned her Master of Science degree at Simmons University in Boston, MA as an FNP. She also received her Post Master's degree at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA as a PMHNP. While obtaining her FNP and PMHNP, she maintained Cum Laude status. Ebonie also volunteers as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner with the Women's Resource Center in Norman, OK. Ebonie is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Ebonie Pankey is Nurse Practitioner who specializes as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Oklahoma and then earned her Master of Science degree at Simmons University in Boston, MA as an FNP. She also received her Post Master's degree at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA as a PMHNP. While obtaining her FNP and PMHNP, she maintained Cum Laude status. Ebonie also volunteers as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner with the Women's Resource Center in Norman, OK. Ebonie is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Many of my patients are high-achieving adult men struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD—feeling stuck, unmotivated, or trapped in cycles of fear and poor communication. You may have tried medication before without success or wonder if what you’re experiencing is “just life.” You want better sleep, focus, motivation, and more meaningful relationships. My goal is to help you break free from these struggles, regain confidence, and find lasting balance using an integrative, root-cause approach tailored to your unique needs.
Many of my patients are high-achieving adult men struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD—feeling stuck, unmotivated, or trapped in cycles of fear and poor communication. You may have tried medication before without success or wonder if what you’re experiencing is “just life.” You want better sleep, focus, motivation, and more meaningful relationships. My goal is to help you break free from these struggles, regain confidence, and find lasting balance using an integrative, root-cause approach tailored to your unique needs.

Dr. Ifeoma Grace Ogbalu: Grace Springs Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Dr. Ifeoma graduated from the Maryville University of St Louis with her Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. She provides psychiatric evaluation, prescriptive medication management, psychotherapy services to patients 18 years and older via telehealth.
Dr. Ifeoma graduated from the Maryville University of St Louis with her Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. She provides psychiatric evaluation, prescriptive medication management, psychotherapy services to patients 18 years and older via telehealth.

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.

I have 10+ years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. As a dual-boarded NP, I feel strongly about leaning into my experiences in physical medicine as an adjunct to my psychiatry practice. I welcome adults 18+ with special population insight in military families (AF veteran), first responders, and foster care families.
I have 10+ years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. As a dual-boarded NP, I feel strongly about leaning into my experiences in physical medicine as an adjunct to my psychiatry practice. I welcome adults 18+ with special population insight in military families (AF veteran), first responders, and foster care families.

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.

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.

My ideal client is someone navigating the challenges of life, feeling stuck or overwhelmed but ready for change. They may seek clarity, balance, and relief, hoping to regain control of their emotions and daily life. They want a compassionate guide who listens without judgment and provides tools to overcome obstacles. Their goal is to feel empowered and confident, equipped to manage their mental health and achieve lasting wellness. Whether seeking help for the first time or looking for a new approach, they desire a safe space where they can heal, grow, and thrive with the support of a provider who genuinely cares about their journey
My ideal client is someone navigating the challenges of life, feeling stuck or overwhelmed but ready for change. They may seek clarity, balance, and relief, hoping to regain control of their emotions and daily life. They want a compassionate guide who listens without judgment and provides tools to overcome obstacles. Their goal is to feel empowered and confident, equipped to manage their mental health and achieve lasting wellness. Whether seeking help for the first time or looking for a new approach, they desire a safe space where they can heal, grow, and thrive with the support of a provider who genuinely cares about their journey

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.

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.

If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life's uncertainties, you don't have to face it alone. My goal is to create a welcoming and collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to take back control.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life's uncertainties, you don't have to face it alone. My goal is to create a welcoming and collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to take back control.

Accepting new patients. 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, eating disorders, and sleep disorders. We provide telehealth services or in-person visits with immediate openings and rescheduling. Call us today!
Accepting new patients. 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, eating disorders, and sleep disorders. We provide telehealth services or in-person visits with immediate openings and rescheduling. Call us today!

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.
See more therapy options for Oklahoma City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK
80+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
90% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | 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.
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.