Psychiatrists in Nichols Hills, OK
![Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bb64711-36d7-4cef-b3a0-e2c59d071cfd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (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 Dr. Sean Whelan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9ef7ad8-3496-48c9-bf74-35bc10619436/2/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal patient for Dr. Sean Whelan is between the ages of 18-69. They are seeking services for psychotropic med to assist w/ varying disorders such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief, or Bipolar; however, they are interested in the least amount of medication/dosage to maintain stability and optimum functioning. His ideal patient's desire change and are significantly focused on factors within their personal control. His patient's are desiring to make lifestyle changes to optimize their health such as maintaining a certain level of dedication to sleep, exercise, and/or re-evaluate relationships that are not serving them.
The ideal patient for Dr. Sean Whelan is between the ages of 18-69. They are seeking services for psychotropic med to assist w/ varying disorders such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief, or Bipolar; however, they are interested in the least amount of medication/dosage to maintain stability and optimum functioning. His ideal patient's desire change and are significantly focused on factors within their personal control. His patient's are desiring to make lifestyle changes to optimize their health such as maintaining a certain level of dedication to sleep, exercise, and/or re-evaluate relationships that are not serving them.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Lyndsey Jones, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87c9e745-452c-49fb-859a-4f4e92482f92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lyndsey Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (Online Only)
Embracing mental health care is not just about managing symptoms—it’s a pathway to understanding oneself, cultivating resilience, and developing coping strategies for life's challenges. My approach is collaborative, valuing your unique perspective and lived experiences. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership, working together to explore the depths of your concerns, set achievable goals, and ultimately empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.
Embracing mental health care is not just about managing symptoms—it’s a pathway to understanding oneself, cultivating resilience, and developing coping strategies for life's challenges. My approach is collaborative, valuing your unique perspective and lived experiences. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership, working together to explore the depths of your concerns, set achievable goals, and ultimately empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Ashley Wigington, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ef513f4-19ae-4efc-b997-69d7d3b5ca76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Wigington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (Online Only)
My goal as a provider has always been to create a space where every patient feels heard, comfortable, and welcomed. I am passionate about providing care that not only addresses mental health concerns but also supports the overall well-being of my patients.
My goal as a provider has always been to create a space where every patient feels heard, comfortable, and welcomed. I am passionate about providing care that not only addresses mental health concerns but also supports the overall well-being of my patients.
![Photo of Brenda G James - Psychiatry & More, LLC , DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a328034-7324-476a-9cc2-b97ac4a558b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry & More, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Psychiatry & More provides comprehensive mental health treatment plans for patients ages 6 and older. Staff includes a mixture of psychiatrists, mental health certified nurse practitioners, psychologists and licensed therapists. Psychiatry & More can also provide Suboxone treatment.
Psychiatry & More provides comprehensive mental health treatment plans for patients ages 6 and older. Staff includes a mixture of psychiatrists, mental health certified nurse practitioners, psychologists and licensed therapists. Psychiatry & More can also provide Suboxone treatment.
![Photo of Alyssa Smith, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aee650b-eeb3-461a-ba72-1bccf0dea1fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Alyssa Smith, APRN-PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Reeder Psychiatry specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients of all ages with psychiatric mental illnesses. Alyssa received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Eastern Kentucky where she graduated as a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Theta Tau with a 4.0 GPA. Alyssa has over 12 years experience in the medical field with a background in surgery, administration, pharmacy, and psychiatry.
Alyssa Smith, APRN-PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Reeder Psychiatry specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients of all ages with psychiatric mental illnesses. Alyssa received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Eastern Kentucky where she graduated as a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Theta Tau with a 4.0 GPA. Alyssa has over 12 years experience in the medical field with a background in surgery, administration, pharmacy, and psychiatry.
![Photo of Chance Whinnery - Dreaming Leaves, PLLC, MD, PMH-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54eaebe4-83eb-43f9-964c-2fa78b74bf3f/1/320x400.png)
Opening October 1, 2024. Website available in the coming weeks for new patient inquires. Check back with us in the coming weeks! Accepting patients 18-65 years of age; Dreaming Leaves is out-of-network for insurance benefits.
Opening October 1, 2024. Website available in the coming weeks for new patient inquires. Check back with us in the coming weeks! Accepting patients 18-65 years of age; Dreaming Leaves is out-of-network for insurance benefits.
![Photo of Colby Pacheco, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5437150-8d25-4d49-8ec3-3c0107f312c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colby Pacheco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Colby Pacheco, NP Colby Pacheco is a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University of Saint Louis. Colby has 10 years in healthcare as an RN and patient care technician. His nursing background includes Cardiothoracic ICU, Medical ICU, post-anesthesia, and hospice care. He utilizes nursing science to provide patient-centric holistic care and proudly offers LGBT+ affirming care.
Colby Pacheco, NP Colby Pacheco is a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University of Saint Louis. Colby has 10 years in healthcare as an RN and patient care technician. His nursing background includes Cardiothoracic ICU, Medical ICU, post-anesthesia, and hospice care. He utilizes nursing science to provide patient-centric holistic care and proudly offers LGBT+ affirming care.
![Photo of Annie Cloud, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5172b72c-c1b7-44af-b5c4-a4c51a268767/1/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Cloud PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Oklahoma City University in 2018. Prior to PA school, she received a Bachelor of Nutritional Sciences from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2011. Before joining LifeStance Health, she worked as a PA in the Emergency Room and Urgent Care. Her main goal is helping her patients feel their best mentally, physically, and emotionally. In her free time, Annie enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, running, and fostering dogs through a local rescue.
Annie Cloud PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Oklahoma City University in 2018. Prior to PA school, she received a Bachelor of Nutritional Sciences from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2011. Before joining LifeStance Health, she worked as a PA in the Emergency Room and Urgent Care. Her main goal is helping her patients feel their best mentally, physically, and emotionally. In her free time, Annie enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, running, and fostering dogs through a local rescue.
![Photo of Meryl Aaron, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/540610de-36b1-469c-b95a-3916688cbb89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meryl Aaron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, and LGBT issues. I work with addiction medicine patients and would love to have an opportunity to help as many as I can reach. I am happy to provide medication management to address mental health needs as well as medication combined with therapy. Please call the office to verify insurance coverage, private pay is available as well. Do not email for an appointment, please call the office.
I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, and LGBT issues. I work with addiction medicine patients and would love to have an opportunity to help as many as I can reach. I am happy to provide medication management to address mental health needs as well as medication combined with therapy. Please call the office to verify insurance coverage, private pay is available as well. Do not email for an appointment, please call the office.
![Photo of Gary L Massad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c65acfd2-1a84-4d5d-8117-7f03074c810e/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Dr. Gary Massad stands as a beacon in the medical community. He is a psychiatrist, widely recognized for his expertise in sports medicine, orthopedics, and workers' compensation. He dedicates his extensive knowledge and experience to the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Dr. Massad's approach to patient care is deeply rooted in his passion for listening to and understanding the unique needs of each individual and looks forward to working with the client where they are at in their current life path.
With a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Dr. Gary Massad stands as a beacon in the medical community. He is a psychiatrist, widely recognized for his expertise in sports medicine, orthopedics, and workers' compensation. He dedicates his extensive knowledge and experience to the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Dr. Massad's approach to patient care is deeply rooted in his passion for listening to and understanding the unique needs of each individual and looks forward to working with the client where they are at in their current life path.
Addiction Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC-, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73114
Addiction Wellness Center Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorder Treatment No matter what type of substance abuse issues you’re battling, Addiction Wellness Center is here to help you take your life back.
Addiction Wellness Center Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorder Treatment No matter what type of substance abuse issues you’re battling, Addiction Wellness Center is here to help you take your life back.
![Photo of David Linden, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7dd5a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to help families find solutions to life's challenges & assist in finding healthier ways to achieve a happier life. Specializing in affordable psychiatry & pain management services,I'll work with your family to do this. I also work with chronic pain patients understanding that 30-40% of chronic pain patients are also dealing with depression & the side effects of constant pain. We will discuss & work through those deep issues that may be at the core of your chronic pain.
My mission is to help families find solutions to life's challenges & assist in finding healthier ways to achieve a happier life. Specializing in affordable psychiatry & pain management services,I'll work with your family to do this. I also work with chronic pain patients understanding that 30-40% of chronic pain patients are also dealing with depression & the side effects of constant pain. We will discuss & work through those deep issues that may be at the core of your chronic pain.
![Photo of Skye Helker, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed842e2-b50b-462d-a4e0-cc7de7e6d6d4/1/320x400.png)
Skye graduated from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017, with distinction, with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program. Following graduation, she went on to complete an Emergency Medicine APC fellowship. Her undergraduate degree is from Oklahoma Baptist University, where she played collegiate volleyball. Before joining LifeStance Health in January of 2021, Skye worked as a PA in the Emergency Room. Skye desires to combine both modern medicine and a holistic approach to help women achieve their optimal health.
Skye graduated from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017, with distinction, with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program. Following graduation, she went on to complete an Emergency Medicine APC fellowship. Her undergraduate degree is from Oklahoma Baptist University, where she played collegiate volleyball. Before joining LifeStance Health in January of 2021, Skye worked as a PA in the Emergency Room. Skye desires to combine both modern medicine and a holistic approach to help women achieve their optimal health.
![Photo of Karyn Taylor, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/131eebc9-859f-40ce-aef6-4fb56dbabdd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karyn Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (Online Only)
Your mental well-being matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health needs. My practice is founded on the belief that every person deserves access to effective treatment and the opportunity to thrive in their daily lives. For many individuals, the decision to seek psychiatric care can be daunting, and I understand the courage it takes to take that first step towards healing.
Your mental well-being matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking support for their mental health needs. My practice is founded on the belief that every person deserves access to effective treatment and the opportunity to thrive in their daily lives. For many individuals, the decision to seek psychiatric care can be daunting, and I understand the courage it takes to take that first step towards healing.
![Photo of James Henneberry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/267d0367-1167-41de-9229-d4ee83cb4ddf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood, post-traumatic, psychotic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. As an out of network provider, I offer services of psychotherapy (with or without medications) and focused medication visits. If you have established a relationship with another therapist and would like to continue to work with them, I am able to offer medication only visits.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood, post-traumatic, psychotic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. As an out of network provider, I offer services of psychotherapy (with or without medications) and focused medication visits. If you have established a relationship with another therapist and would like to continue to work with them, I am able to offer medication only visits.
![Photo of Shyvonne Gray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c639f8c-00a9-415d-ace9-5ad68064438d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shyvonne Gray received her M.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She then completed four years of residency in general psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. After completing residency, she treated patients with severe mental illness at Jacobi Medical Center in New York City. She then moved back to Oklahoma, where she served as the medical director of Oakwood Springs Hospital in Oklahoma City. She comes to us from her Edmond private practice, Modern Mindcare, where she specialized in mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Shyvonne Gray received her M.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She then completed four years of residency in general psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. After completing residency, she treated patients with severe mental illness at Jacobi Medical Center in New York City. She then moved back to Oklahoma, where she served as the medical director of Oakwood Springs Hospital in Oklahoma City. She comes to us from her Edmond private practice, Modern Mindcare, where she specialized in mood and anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Colby Pacheco, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5c48b68-41a7-4f74-a8e0-a06b437c7f0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colby Pacheco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Hello! My name is Colby and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). PMHNPs utilize nursing science coupled along with holistic care, medication management, and interventional psychiatry - and that is exactly my practice. Let’s explore a holistic approach to your mental health care and help you be the best person you can be. Proudly offering LGBT+, BIPOC, and gender affirming care.
Hello! My name is Colby and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). PMHNPs utilize nursing science coupled along with holistic care, medication management, and interventional psychiatry - and that is exactly my practice. Let’s explore a holistic approach to your mental health care and help you be the best person you can be. Proudly offering LGBT+, BIPOC, and gender affirming care.
![Photo of Elisabeth D Mustachia - Psychiatric Wellness APRN-CNP PLLC, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d638c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric Wellness APRN-CNP PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Psychiatric Wellness provides integrative psychiatric care, a method that is a whole-body, approach that utilizes nutrition, lifestyle, exercise, supplements and medications as needed to ensure your well-being and optimize outcomes for each patient. Psychiatric Wellness provides therapeutic treatments using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnotherapy, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and ImTT (Image transformation therapy) to help patients reduce anxiety and heal from trauma. We have multiple providers including board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioners and Licensed professional counselors.
Psychiatric Wellness provides integrative psychiatric care, a method that is a whole-body, approach that utilizes nutrition, lifestyle, exercise, supplements and medications as needed to ensure your well-being and optimize outcomes for each patient. Psychiatric Wellness provides therapeutic treatments using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnotherapy, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and ImTT (Image transformation therapy) to help patients reduce anxiety and heal from trauma. We have multiple providers including board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioners and Licensed professional counselors.
![Photo of Teresa Miller, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fbf8f68-c822-41ee-9ff5-6cd5ff036643/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2007. She got her Bachelors of Science in Chemistry and Biology from Southern Nazarene University. Before joining Balance Women's Health, Teresa worked as a PA in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility since 2011. She has a special interest in treating women who struggle with PCOS, infertility, and other hormonal issues. Previous to her time in REI, she worked four years in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. She maintains professional membership in the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants.
Teresa completed her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2007. She got her Bachelors of Science in Chemistry and Biology from Southern Nazarene University. Before joining Balance Women's Health, Teresa worked as a PA in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility since 2011. She has a special interest in treating women who struggle with PCOS, infertility, and other hormonal issues. Previous to her time in REI, she worked four years in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology. She maintains professional membership in the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants.
See more therapy options for Nichols Hills
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Nichols Hills, OK
< 10
Psychiatrists in Nichols Hills, OK who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Grief |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Nichols Hills, OK see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nichols Hills?
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.