Psychiatrists in Arkansas
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.
Kaitlin Hiddle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Kaitlin helps all people young or old, small or great find gentle care and wise counsel for a better future.
Kaitlin helps all people young or old, small or great find gentle care and wise counsel for a better future.
Are you struggling with irritability, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, sadness, or tearfulness? Anxiety, depression (including both postpartum), and other mental health disorders can present unique symptoms for each person. If you're seeking someone to listen to your experiences and help you navigate towards a better version of yourself, let's schedule an appointment!
Are you struggling with irritability, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, sadness, or tearfulness? Anxiety, depression (including both postpartum), and other mental health disorders can present unique symptoms for each person. If you're seeking someone to listen to your experiences and help you navigate towards a better version of yourself, let's schedule an appointment!
Amber Marengo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058
Embark on a transformative journey with a compassionate Christian therapist who integrates nursing experience with faith-based support. I offer treatment for a range of issues, including life transitions, depression, self-esteem challenges, PTSD, insomnia, and grief.
Embark on a transformative journey with a compassionate Christian therapist who integrates nursing experience with faith-based support. I offer treatment for a range of issues, including life transitions, depression, self-esteem challenges, PTSD, insomnia, and grief.
Kristin Kiernan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022
Welcome to a safe space where your mental health and well-being is my top priority. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve a brighter, more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based practices to guide you towards mental wellness. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I am your trusted partner in overcoming life's challenges. We all struggle, but you are not alone!
Welcome to a safe space where your mental health and well-being is my top priority. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve a brighter, more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based practices to guide you towards mental wellness. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I am your trusted partner in overcoming life's challenges. We all struggle, but you are not alone!
Emily Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
Everyone is dealing with something in life; no one should struggle alone. I collaborate with my patients to assess their mental health and well-being, set goals, and empower them to achieve those goals. My approach to treatment is multi-dimensional and person-centered. My office is a judgment-free area where people from all walks of life are valued and welcomed. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I obtained my RN from Baptist in 2009, my BSN from UALR in 2017, and my MSN from Walden University in 2021. I am board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Everyone is dealing with something in life; no one should struggle alone. I collaborate with my patients to assess their mental health and well-being, set goals, and empower them to achieve those goals. My approach to treatment is multi-dimensional and person-centered. My office is a judgment-free area where people from all walks of life are valued and welcomed. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I obtained my RN from Baptist in 2009, my BSN from UALR in 2017, and my MSN from Walden University in 2021. I am board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Kellie Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
My ideal clients are individuals or families seeking holistic healing and mental wellness support. They include parents dealing with children's mental health issues, adolescents facing anxiety, trauma survivors, and mothers grappling with fertility issues or loss. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider committed to a comprehensive healing approach. They want empowerment, knowledge, and coping skills, and a safe, non-judgmental space. If this resonates with you, I'm here to support your journey to optimal health and well-being.
My ideal clients are individuals or families seeking holistic healing and mental wellness support. They include parents dealing with children's mental health issues, adolescents facing anxiety, trauma survivors, and mothers grappling with fertility issues or loss. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider committed to a comprehensive healing approach. They want empowerment, knowledge, and coping skills, and a safe, non-judgmental space. If this resonates with you, I'm here to support your journey to optimal health and well-being.
Rhianna Harberson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022 (Online Only)
I specialize in all ages across the lifespan. I primarily treat Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Disruptive Behavior and Impulse Control, PTSD, Autism, and ADHD (no stimulants). I think it is important that clients understand that medications don't "fix" people and they do not teach skills. It is important for clients to know that my job is not to ever talk you into medications, but rather help to discuss the pros and cons to see how we can help benefit and better you.
I specialize in all ages across the lifespan. I primarily treat Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Disruptive Behavior and Impulse Control, PTSD, Autism, and ADHD (no stimulants). I think it is important that clients understand that medications don't "fix" people and they do not teach skills. It is important for clients to know that my job is not to ever talk you into medications, but rather help to discuss the pros and cons to see how we can help benefit and better you.
Melinda Marie Justice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72901
It is my privilege to help others cope with real problems during the most challenging times of their lives. Personally as a widow and mother of two children, I do understand that life can be very challenging for all of us. My only goal is to see improvement from where you were the day we first met. It is my pleasure to serve others in my own community. I look forward to working with you to meet your goals and improve the quality of your life.
It is my privilege to help others cope with real problems during the most challenging times of their lives. Personally as a widow and mother of two children, I do understand that life can be very challenging for all of us. My only goal is to see improvement from where you were the day we first met. It is my pleasure to serve others in my own community. I look forward to working with you to meet your goals and improve the quality of your life.
Chloe Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
My ideal client is an individual willing to put in the time and effort to know themselves and adhere to a treatment plan. He/she would be agreeable to a modality of therapy along with medication management. He/she would be motivated to give up use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol if necessary.
My ideal client is an individual willing to put in the time and effort to know themselves and adhere to a treatment plan. He/she would be agreeable to a modality of therapy along with medication management. He/she would be motivated to give up use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol if necessary.
Dr. Charla Watkins
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and grief. I also provide EMDR therapy which is excellent for recovery of trauma. I provide psychotherapy/counseling and medication management individualized for each patient in a safe and therapeutic environment that promotes healing and thriving.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and grief. I also provide EMDR therapy which is excellent for recovery of trauma. I provide psychotherapy/counseling and medication management individualized for each patient in a safe and therapeutic environment that promotes healing and thriving.
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Lindsay Van Parys
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, CPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72116
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems, parent-child interactions, and substance use. I have a way of helping patients feel comfortable and at ease. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals.
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems, parent-child interactions, and substance use. I have a way of helping patients feel comfortable and at ease. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals.
Jessica Gutting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSNC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, AR 72601
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental illness who is looking to improve their quality of life and overall wellness. It is someone who needs help with diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and is willing to be open and honest about their symptoms and progress.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental illness who is looking to improve their quality of life and overall wellness. It is someone who needs help with diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and is willing to be open and honest about their symptoms and progress.
Rhonda Mattox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72223 (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!
Whitney H Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain Home, AR 72653 (Online Only)
An ideal client is someone that needs support in navigating and understanding how medication management can be an important component in meeting their treatment goals. My ideal client communicates with me openly about their response to medication, both good and bad. They are willing to be open-minded and are interested in learning about their medication and advocating for themselves when something isn't right.
An ideal client is someone that needs support in navigating and understanding how medication management can be an important component in meeting their treatment goals. My ideal client communicates with me openly about their response to medication, both good and bad. They are willing to be open-minded and are interested in learning about their medication and advocating for themselves when something isn't right.
Heather Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This board certification enables me to treat mental health across the lifespan, which allows me to care for and prescribe medicine for children, teens, and adults. My background includes working in an intensive care unit, outpatient care, and crisis stabilization, as well as interning in many outpatient psychiatric settings. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders, sleep disorders, crises, PTSD, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and more.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This board certification enables me to treat mental health across the lifespan, which allows me to care for and prescribe medicine for children, teens, and adults. My background includes working in an intensive care unit, outpatient care, and crisis stabilization, as well as interning in many outpatient psychiatric settings. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders, sleep disorders, crises, PTSD, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and more.
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.
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.
See more therapy options for Arkansas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Arkansas who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
78% | Medication Management |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Ambetter |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Arkansas see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
89% | Female | |
11% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arkansas?
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.