Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR
![Photo of Melissa Krisht, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0150df3f-9367-402c-8488-9e853cb744d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa is proficient in modalities like Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems, using guided meditation techniques to address trauma. She is passionate about the evolving field of psychiatry, particularly the integration of psychedelic medicine. Beyond clinical practice, Melissa empowers her clients by educating them to actively participate in their healthcare journey.
Melissa is proficient in modalities like Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems, using guided meditation techniques to address trauma. She is passionate about the evolving field of psychiatry, particularly the integration of psychedelic medicine. Beyond clinical practice, Melissa empowers her clients by educating them to actively participate in their healthcare journey.
![Photo of Laura Conley-Olsen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dedcd2f-f72c-4c35-af8a-3e8d02b1d2ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating the mental health needs of children and adults using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, including therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medications when indicated. I always appreciate input from families, outside therapists, and teachers when developing treatment plans. My special interests include autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, trauma, trichotillomania, tic disorders, and gender dysphoria. While I do primarily see children and adolescents, I also enjoy caring for adults with autism and those with women’s mental health needs.
I specialize in treating the mental health needs of children and adults using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, including therapy, lifestyle modifications, and medications when indicated. I always appreciate input from families, outside therapists, and teachers when developing treatment plans. My special interests include autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, trauma, trichotillomania, tic disorders, and gender dysphoria. While I do primarily see children and adolescents, I also enjoy caring for adults with autism and those with women’s mental health needs.
![Photo of Michelle Head, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37a9a681-0c4c-4956-9e8f-02e3bfdfc003/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Head
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211 (Online Only)
Michelle Head is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is new to the profession, but has diverse experience in mental health, and is always looking to better her practice through implementing new research.
Michelle Head is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is new to the profession, but has diverse experience in mental health, and is always looking to better her practice through implementing new research.
![Photo of Nancy L Mitchell, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1c11957-0852-4707-bbae-a8f8aede6edc/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal patient is seeking an experienced medication management provider who embraces a holistic approach to mental and physical health. You may need a new or different psychiatric medication, or you may need health coaching, or you may need someone to help you advocate differently with your primary care physician. Or you may need all of these things! I am motivated to travel WITH my patients, to make sure they feel heard and understood, and to collaborate on a treatment plan. We will leave no stone unturned.
My ideal patient is seeking an experienced medication management provider who embraces a holistic approach to mental and physical health. You may need a new or different psychiatric medication, or you may need health coaching, or you may need someone to help you advocate differently with your primary care physician. Or you may need all of these things! I am motivated to travel WITH my patients, to make sure they feel heard and understood, and to collaborate on a treatment plan. We will leave no stone unturned.
![Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0fa1955-0b31-4403-b12d-637a2b4b8334/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205 (Online Only)
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of Deena Garner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c16ea522-b022-4c55-ab78-ee6148f09cf9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deena Garner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, PNP
Verified Verified
North Little Rock, AR 72116
Are you tired of feeling like every day is a struggle? Are you ready to change your life? Are you looking for more joy, motivation, focus, or just need some support? I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management and supportive therapy of individuals with a variety of mental health issues. Some of the most common are trauma-related disorders, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, as well as issues with grief, self-esteem and self-worth issues. I enjoy working with families and couples to improve their communication and interactions.
Are you tired of feeling like every day is a struggle? Are you ready to change your life? Are you looking for more joy, motivation, focus, or just need some support? I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management and supportive therapy of individuals with a variety of mental health issues. Some of the most common are trauma-related disorders, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, as well as issues with grief, self-esteem and self-worth issues. I enjoy working with families and couples to improve their communication and interactions.
![Photo of Martha Shaw, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afe04c30-c97d-45fe-b2a5-82c102af10f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Little Rock, AR 72116 (Online Only)
Martha "Mattie" Shaw is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is board certified to manage a wide range of mental health issues which include PTSD, depression, insomnia, and anxiety. Mattie's role as a PMHNP includes assessing, diagnosing, making treatment recommendations, and medication management.
Martha "Mattie" Shaw is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is board certified to manage a wide range of mental health issues which include PTSD, depression, insomnia, and anxiety. Mattie's role as a PMHNP includes assessing, diagnosing, making treatment recommendations, and medication management.
![Photo of Jessica Wainwright, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8117f9a-ede2-432e-95d5-83fcf9ff966d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Wainwright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72210
Not accepting new clients
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. I have ten years experience working in the healthcare field, working in diverse backgrounds in various settings including teaching hospitals, inpatient care, outpatient care and detox rehab. I consider the entire person and how they function within their social and cultural environment rather than simply a constellation of symptoms. I believes that the best treatment results from the bio-psycho-social approach to mental health.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. I have ten years experience working in the healthcare field, working in diverse backgrounds in various settings including teaching hospitals, inpatient care, outpatient care and detox rehab. I consider the entire person and how they function within their social and cultural environment rather than simply a constellation of symptoms. I believes that the best treatment results from the bio-psycho-social approach to mental health.
![Photo of Danielle Jenkins, MNSc, APRN, PHMNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e702bc33-4f39-4e88-8319-cc3e32a80028/3/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PHMNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72223
My goal is to help patients along their mental health journey. I will work tirelessly to meet you where you are, as well as collaborate with you to develop a cohesive and pharmacologically advised plan to get where you need and, more importantly, want to go. This journey consists of establishing a safe, judgement-free space that encourages honesty to most efficiently and effectively help those in my care. Honesty, communication, and open dialogue are key components to creating a complete and considerate treatment and wellness plan.
My goal is to help patients along their mental health journey. I will work tirelessly to meet you where you are, as well as collaborate with you to develop a cohesive and pharmacologically advised plan to get where you need and, more importantly, want to go. This journey consists of establishing a safe, judgement-free space that encourages honesty to most efficiently and effectively help those in my care. Honesty, communication, and open dialogue are key components to creating a complete and considerate treatment and wellness plan.
![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 Adarsh Reddy, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85d65054-380b-4775-a5ad-70a74e609ae1/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clients/ patients include but are not limited to people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, psychosis, substance use disorders, and ADHD. People reach out to me for various reasons, including needing a different approach to managing their issues, providing adequate time to address all their problems, and wanting someone who is easily reachable, questionable, respectful, and nonjudgmental. My goal is to provide highly personalized service for a small number of clients. I strive to be an active listener with a nonjudgmental attitude.
My clients/ patients include but are not limited to people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, psychosis, substance use disorders, and ADHD. People reach out to me for various reasons, including needing a different approach to managing their issues, providing adequate time to address all their problems, and wanting someone who is easily reachable, questionable, respectful, and nonjudgmental. My goal is to provide highly personalized service for a small number of clients. I strive to be an active listener with a nonjudgmental attitude.
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![Photo of Jeremy R Thompson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/147c1dcf-7bf7-42a4-8d04-94023b4f046c/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general psychiatrist providing medication management services. I manage most psychiatric conditions including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and addiction. My practice includes telehealth. I accept new patients and most insurance plans.
I am a general psychiatrist providing medication management services. I manage most psychiatric conditions including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and addiction. My practice includes telehealth. I accept new patients and most insurance plans.
![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 Cathy Petty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5cc0135-9fea-49fb-8477-df7cce0b2730/2/320x400.png)
Cathy Petty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Little Rock, AR 72116 (Online Only)
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. She is qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. Cathy has experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. She is passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. She is qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. Cathy has experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. She is passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.
![Photo of Richard Flanigin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39e1dbbb-61fd-46ba-a7c0-2c60d38fe0f8/2/320x400.png)
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
![Photo of Stephanie Burnett, APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8432c74-dd9d-4159-8fbb-26d3b093a7bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Burnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, CNL-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maumelle, AR 72113
Welcome! I offer medication management, supportive therapy, genetic testing for psychotropic mediations, mindfulness techniques, and other ever evolving holistic practices. I'm not your typical Psych Nurse Practitioner. I have spent over a decade building concepts taught within my practice. Within all sessions, I integrate a systematic approach composed of my 7-Step Butterfly Method TM which offers educational concepts of awareness, growth and healing from faulty thinking patterns. You will find ease in your life and more control over your emotional life and mindset.
Welcome! I offer medication management, supportive therapy, genetic testing for psychotropic mediations, mindfulness techniques, and other ever evolving holistic practices. I'm not your typical Psych Nurse Practitioner. I have spent over a decade building concepts taught within my practice. Within all sessions, I integrate a systematic approach composed of my 7-Step Butterfly Method TM which offers educational concepts of awareness, growth and healing from faulty thinking patterns. You will find ease in your life and more control over your emotional life and mindset.
![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.
![Photo of Kelsey McClellan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e35e37fb-9e60-4788-bbc4-630d00077302/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management services for adults and children. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia.
I am a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management services for adults and children. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia.
![Photo of Jennifer Rawls, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d61c4846-b800-4d83-9b1c-7b1c41d91dc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Rawls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
Jennifer Rawls is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides diagnosis and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She offers medication management and psychotherapy with a collaborative, holistic, and evidence-based approach. Jennifer understands that the journey to wellness is multifaceted. She strives to address her client’s emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs.
Jennifer Rawls is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides diagnosis and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She offers medication management and psychotherapy with a collaborative, holistic, and evidence-based approach. Jennifer understands that the journey to wellness is multifaceted. She strives to address her client’s emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs.
![Photo of Chloe Ward, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/516e35af-ee55-40fb-8d7f-6cc546d72a47/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe (Cyd) Ward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has provided clinical services for adults with serious mental illnesses as well as for individuals with traumatic stressors or difficulty managing anxiety and depression. She understands that being diagnosed with a serious mental illness doesn’t have to define you, but rather is just one component of who you are. She believes in addressing the root cause of an illness whether that be an addiction, childhood trauma, or wellness concerns. Cyd is an empathic listener and cares deeply for her patients, colleagues, friends, and family.
Chloe (Cyd) Ward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has provided clinical services for adults with serious mental illnesses as well as for individuals with traumatic stressors or difficulty managing anxiety and depression. She understands that being diagnosed with a serious mental illness doesn’t have to define you, but rather is just one component of who you are. She believes in addressing the root cause of an illness whether that be an addiction, childhood trauma, or wellness concerns. Cyd is an empathic listener and cares deeply for her patients, colleagues, friends, and family.
See more therapy options for Pulaski County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR
50+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
85% | Medication Management |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
70% | Ambetter |
How Psychiatrists in Pulaski County, AR see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pulaski 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.