Psychiatrists in Garland County, AR
![Photo of Rebecca Webb, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cefc19b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Many patients I see are seeking change. Change from their current symptoms, history of family dysfunction, or response to the world around them. They are pursuing fulfillment. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my focus is medication management. My aim is to collaborate with patients and set mutual goals to help in this pursuit of fulfillment. I believe the foundation of a strong relationship is honesty and empathy, this is true of the working relationship between provider and patient. I have long had an interest in mental health, first earning a degree in psychology prior to becoming a nurse.
Many patients I see are seeking change. Change from their current symptoms, history of family dysfunction, or response to the world around them. They are pursuing fulfillment. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my focus is medication management. My aim is to collaborate with patients and set mutual goals to help in this pursuit of fulfillment. I believe the foundation of a strong relationship is honesty and empathy, this is true of the working relationship between provider and patient. I have long had an interest in mental health, first earning a degree in psychology prior to becoming a nurse.
![Photo of Sarah Cloud, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92f1eb87-afbf-48a6-b496-25ec44112d28/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Cloud
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71913 (Online Only)
I am passionate about caring for the whole person with a focus on mental health. I place an emphasis on the most up-to-date evidence-based research in combination with individualized care that is specific for you, including what will work best for you and your goals of treatment.
I am passionate about caring for the whole person with a focus on mental health. I place an emphasis on the most up-to-date evidence-based research in combination with individualized care that is specific for you, including what will work best for you and your goals of treatment.
![Photo of Karen Hall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b66a289d-88f2-4ec8-be14-6eb17b84abce/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Karen D. Hall specializes in psychiatry with a primary focus on child and adolescent psychiatry. This includes diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions and disorders in children and teenagers. Her extensive education, training, and experience have equipped her to address the unique mental health needs of this specific age group.
Dr. Karen D. Hall specializes in psychiatry with a primary focus on child and adolescent psychiatry. This includes diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions and disorders in children and teenagers. Her extensive education, training, and experience have equipped her to address the unique mental health needs of this specific age group.
![Photo of Emily Healy, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84073530-3e54-4048-a6c8-78ef3f90385b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Healy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I’m a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). My mission is to help people heal from the inside out. I've dedicated my career to treating a wide range of mental health conditions. From anxiety and depression to more complex disorders like addiction, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, I'm here to support you.
Hello and welcome! I’m a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). My mission is to help people heal from the inside out. I've dedicated my career to treating a wide range of mental health conditions. From anxiety and depression to more complex disorders like addiction, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, I'm here to support you.
![Photo of Erin Holleman, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aaef9b6-2c57-4088-b42a-d930a012aa73/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Holleman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I am a Spravato Treatment Center specializing in Spravato for treatment resistant depression. I am amazed daily with seeing clients depression improve after years of struggling with lingering symptoms despite trying and failing other medications or only finding minimal relief with their current medications. My goal is to help every individual reach their fullest potential.
I am a Spravato Treatment Center specializing in Spravato for treatment resistant depression. I am amazed daily with seeing clients depression improve after years of struggling with lingering symptoms despite trying and failing other medications or only finding minimal relief with their current medications. My goal is to help every individual reach their fullest potential.
![Photo of Amanda Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f891296-525a-4e0b-beb4-90135761eb51/1/320x400.png)
Finding the right support on your mental health journey can feel overwhelming, but you've taken a brave step by being here. I'm Dr. Amanda Smith, a board-certified psychiatrist with a warm heart and a passion for helping adults like you navigate life's challenges. I have a special interest in Bipolar Disorder. However, my expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc.) Depression and mood disorders, Trauma and Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ADHD and Attention Disorders.
Finding the right support on your mental health journey can feel overwhelming, but you've taken a brave step by being here. I'm Dr. Amanda Smith, a board-certified psychiatrist with a warm heart and a passion for helping adults like you navigate life's challenges. I have a special interest in Bipolar Disorder. However, my expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc.) Depression and mood disorders, Trauma and Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ADHD and Attention Disorders.
![Photo of Melanie J Sterling, MSN, CNS, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0193bd7-5cb4-4723-b88f-0ff3bd2e0dc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie J Sterling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNS, APRN
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901 (Online Only)
I have 22 years experience working as a Psychiatric APRN and am I ANCC board certified. I thoroughly discuss treatment options for clients. I empower my clients to be involved in their plan of care and I give them the knowledge to make an informed decision.
I have 22 years experience working as a Psychiatric APRN and am I ANCC board certified. I thoroughly discuss treatment options for clients. I empower my clients to be involved in their plan of care and I give them the knowledge to make an informed decision.
![Photo of Dawn Lindsey - Omni Health & Wellness, APRN, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6471d5d-9424-407e-a40e-50ba69322e04/1/320x400.jpeg)
Omni Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
OMNI Health & Wellness is a mental and behavioral health practice for individuals age 14 and up. We offer individual therapy and medication management. Each of our Therapists and Nurse Practitioners are specialists in particular areas and regularly collaborate on patient care. We utilize evidence based treatments and tailor it to each individual client. Our goal is to provide each client the best, most comprehensive care that we can.
OMNI Health & Wellness is a mental and behavioral health practice for individuals age 14 and up. We offer individual therapy and medication management. Each of our Therapists and Nurse Practitioners are specialists in particular areas and regularly collaborate on patient care. We utilize evidence based treatments and tailor it to each individual client. Our goal is to provide each client the best, most comprehensive care that we can.
![Photo of Rhonda Mattox, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/784465f1-d1a7-4e44-b447-2fe649e62bb5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Mattox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Mattox specializes in helping people "Rise, Shine, & Transform" after a fall. It's tempting to ruminate and retreat after life's great disappointments (divorce, death, downsize & other devastating blows.) But Dr. Mattox helps you get off the sidelines and get back into the game of life. She serves as a guide to facilitate the process through coaching. Some think they "should be stronger" or that it's weak to invest in coaching. But the truth is that it's not weak to seek feedback. Why do you think Tiger Woods, Venus Williams, and Michael Jordan have coaches? Why do you think Fortune 500 companies have advisory boards? Results!
Dr. Mattox specializes in helping people "Rise, Shine, & Transform" after a fall. It's tempting to ruminate and retreat after life's great disappointments (divorce, death, downsize & other devastating blows.) But Dr. Mattox helps you get off the sidelines and get back into the game of life. She serves as a guide to facilitate the process through coaching. Some think they "should be stronger" or that it's weak to invest in coaching. But the truth is that it's not weak to seek feedback. Why do you think Tiger Woods, Venus Williams, and Michael Jordan have coaches? Why do you think Fortune 500 companies have advisory boards? Results!
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Alicia Baros, PhD, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93f82bc1-9eab-4fcc-9fda-4a4a289990a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Baros
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNPBC
Not Verified Not Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211 (Online Only)
Dr. Alicia Baros earned her doctorate in pharmacology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tennessee, and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in research addiction medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina where she was appointed Research Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.
Dr. Alicia Baros earned her doctorate in pharmacology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tennessee, and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in research addiction medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina where she was appointed Research Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.
![Photo of Christina Sullivan, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30c29fa0-6bac-42e2-ab6e-24ae7eb20b2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the ups and downs of depression or anxiety, going through a major or unexpected life change, experiencing postpartum, or surviving trauma? I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard without the worry of being judged. I believe it’s a complete privilege to work with those on their journey of wellbeing and no two individuals are the same. This is why I focus on what you want to achieve through our work together and believe that your success is best when we get to a point of feeling comfortable working as a team.
Are you struggling with the ups and downs of depression or anxiety, going through a major or unexpected life change, experiencing postpartum, or surviving trauma? I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard without the worry of being judged. I believe it’s a complete privilege to work with those on their journey of wellbeing and no two individuals are the same. This is why I focus on what you want to achieve through our work together and believe that your success is best when we get to a point of feeling comfortable working as a team.
![Photo of Brandi Yarberry - New Hope Child Psychiatry , DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/699d10d0-dc90-4598-8354-324888e9abbc/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Yarberry is a Little Rock native. She attended Mt. St. Mary Academy, then Lyon College, and received her medical degree at Ohio University. Dr. Yarberry completed both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Her last two years she served as Chief Resident and Co-Chief Resident. She is double board certified in Child and Adolescent and General Psychiatry. When she's not in the office she enjoys the outdoors, traveling, dancing and spending time with her husband, 2 daughters, cat and adorable Chihuahua.
Dr. Yarberry is a Little Rock native. She attended Mt. St. Mary Academy, then Lyon College, and received her medical degree at Ohio University. Dr. Yarberry completed both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Her last two years she served as Chief Resident and Co-Chief Resident. She is double board certified in Child and Adolescent and General Psychiatry. When she's not in the office she enjoys the outdoors, traveling, dancing and spending time with her husband, 2 daughters, cat and adorable Chihuahua.
![Photo of Zack Coco, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50fed27b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zack Coco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72211
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
![Photo of Alisha McCool, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfcbd1c9-d441-4205-ad64-68bc36386c0d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Alisha McCool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
Accepting NEW patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
Accepting NEW patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
![Photo of Ariella Frazier, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4918bab2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ariella Frazier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
I am a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have an interest in treating the mental health care needs of the adult and older adult populations. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy for clients. I also incorporate a collaborative approach and may refer to more specialized therapy options that could be beneficial.
I am a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have an interest in treating the mental health care needs of the adult and older adult populations. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy for clients. I also incorporate a collaborative approach and may refer to more specialized therapy options that could be beneficial.
![Photo of Dr. Dianna Esmaeilpour, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a56b99b-fd55-479e-8ea9-5326de0a3c6c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new patients at Capstone Psychiatry. Dr. Esmaeilpour is a Child and Adult Psychiatrist. She treats mood, anxiety, and thought disorders as well as PTSD and neurodevelopmental disorders. She believes that a good patient physician relationship is the foundation for good care.
Now accepting new patients at Capstone Psychiatry. Dr. Esmaeilpour is a Child and Adult Psychiatrist. She treats mood, anxiety, and thought disorders as well as PTSD and neurodevelopmental disorders. She believes that a good patient physician relationship is the foundation for good care.
![Photo of Mark Andersen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d864ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
![Photo of Darren Compas, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88a95bc1-5492-4119-ad09-fdc9907e539d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Darren Compas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211 (Online Only)
“I love the fusion of medicine and psychiatry and holistically treating patients – not just focusing on symptoms but finding and healing the cause.”
“I love the fusion of medicine and psychiatry and holistically treating patients – not just focusing on symptoms but finding and healing the cause.”
![Photo of Mary Turner - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1dc077-0dd0-49d9-a75d-b7826fc6d5ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Julie Harris, MNSc, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac86d357-2438-4a2b-9acd-a84e110d9103/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72209 (Online Only)
Life can be tough, but you don't have to face it alone. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe space for you to heal and grow. I take a holistic approach to mental health care. This means caring for the whole person and addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I focus on treating the mental health needs of adults and older adults.
Life can be tough, but you don't have to face it alone. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe space for you to heal and grow. I take a holistic approach to mental health care. This means caring for the whole person and addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I focus on treating the mental health needs of adults and older adults.
See more therapy options for Garland County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Garland County, AR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Garland County, AR who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
67% | Grief |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Stress |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | Ambetter |
How Psychiatrists in Garland County, AR see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Garland County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.