Psychiatrists in Shawnee, OK
![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
Shawnee, OK 74801
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 Jessica Collett, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, SANE-A, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d017832-f317-4d2b-b0da-b86332e9086e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Collett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, SANE-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, OK 74801
Patients who are seeking inclusive, trauma-informed care are welcome at both of our Psychiatry & More Clinics (South OKC & Shawnee, OK). Prioritizing lifestyle interventions and medication management, we strive to provide the best psychiatric care that is both patient-centered and holistic. Specialties include providing medication assisted treatment (buprenorphine/naloxone, naltrexone, etc.) for substance use disorders, Gender-Affirming Healthcare (HRT and non-HRT therapies), Contraception/STI Testing, and treatment of psychiatric conditions for all folks across the lifespan.
Patients who are seeking inclusive, trauma-informed care are welcome at both of our Psychiatry & More Clinics (South OKC & Shawnee, OK). Prioritizing lifestyle interventions and medication management, we strive to provide the best psychiatric care that is both patient-centered and holistic. Specialties include providing medication assisted treatment (buprenorphine/naloxone, naltrexone, etc.) for substance use disorders, Gender-Affirming Healthcare (HRT and non-HRT therapies), Contraception/STI Testing, and treatment of psychiatric conditions for all folks across the lifespan.
![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
Shawnee, OK 74801 (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.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Jillian Pollard, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac5f6403-2e00-4656-a5d1-97b40ff483e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jillian graduated with her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2018. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. During her clinical studies, she completed a rotation at Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital in Tulsa, OK. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Prior to attending PA school, she worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit.
Jillian graduated with her Masters of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2018. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. During her clinical studies, she completed a rotation at Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital in Tulsa, OK. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Prior to attending PA school, she worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit.
![Photo of Dr. Sean Whelan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/376c2b93-f791-4adf-9eae-de260b2cd06d/1/320x400.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.
![Photo of Stephanie Sue McQuarters - Mind Wellness, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa666cf8-593e-4ace-9a93-6d30e350f2d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Broken Arrow, OK 74012
I have always been passionate and eager to learn more about mental health even as a young adult and working as healthcare provider in a facility managing medical patients. Having experienced trauma, depression and anxiety first-hand, I understand the importance of seeking professional help. I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to help individuals to cope with mental health challenges through therapy and med management. When I was in a crisis, I received appropriate care which changed my life and I desire to do the same for others.
I have always been passionate and eager to learn more about mental health even as a young adult and working as healthcare provider in a facility managing medical patients. Having experienced trauma, depression and anxiety first-hand, I understand the importance of seeking professional help. I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to help individuals to cope with mental health challenges through therapy and med management. When I was in a crisis, I received appropriate care which changed my life and I desire to do the same for others.
![Photo of Dr. Ifeoma Grace Ogbalu: Grace Springs Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74268125-2a2c-4468-802a-8c3a9bc410ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ifeoma Grace Ogbalu: Grace Springs Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (Online Only)
Dr. Ifeoma graduated from the Maryville University of St Louis with her Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. She provides psychiatric evaluation, prescriptive medication management, psychotherapy services to patients 18 years and older via telehealth.
Dr. Ifeoma graduated from the Maryville University of St Louis with her Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing to assess, diagnose and treat clients with mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. She provides psychiatric evaluation, prescriptive medication management, psychotherapy services to patients 18 years and older via telehealth.
![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 Jennifer Dunning, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ddebb71-384b-46c9-9761-6ab6e1c806ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer graduated summa cum laude with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017. During her clinical studies, she completed a College of Medicine fellowship in the Obstetrics and Gynecology and at Hope Center of Edmond, providing prenatal/postpartum services. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. Upon graduation, she was awarded the OU Health Science Center Joseph J.
Jennifer graduated summa cum laude with her Master of Health Sciences in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2017. During her clinical studies, she completed a College of Medicine fellowship in the Obstetrics and Gynecology and at Hope Center of Edmond, providing prenatal/postpartum services. She was presented with the William D. Stanhope Scholarship, awarded to PA students with the highest GPA at the end of didactic term. Upon graduation, she was awarded the OU Health Science Center Joseph J.
![Photo of Karon Potter, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b4c6d1f-a7ec-496c-af68-6362cbe53516/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karon Potter PA-C, RD, CSOWM, CDE graduated with her Master of Health Sciences with Distinction in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2016. Prior to PA school she received a Bachelor and Master's in nutrition from Texas Tech University. Karon is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and a Certified Diabetes Educator. Before joining LifeStance Karon worked for an Oklahoma City health system developing a comprehensive medical weight management program.
Karon Potter PA-C, RD, CSOWM, CDE graduated with her Master of Health Sciences with Distinction in the Physician Associate Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2016. Prior to PA school she received a Bachelor and Master's in nutrition from Texas Tech University. Karon is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and a Certified Diabetes Educator. Before joining LifeStance Karon worked for an Oklahoma City health system developing a comprehensive medical weight management program.
![Photo of Nicoline Lami Edie, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/969934ab-6919-4185-9981-491973d754e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicoline Lami Edie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Welcome! I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders and issues concerning the LGBT community. Also, I work with addiction medicine and is committed to helping as many patients in need as I can. With patient safety in mind, I am more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage. Also, private pay is available to suit your needs as well. Why wait? Call us today!
Welcome! I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders and issues concerning the LGBT community. Also, I work with addiction medicine and is committed to helping as many patients in need as I can. With patient safety in mind, I am more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage. Also, private pay is available to suit your needs as well. Why wait? Call us today!
![Photo of Branden Carr, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fc46e7a-f47a-411e-a819-550202731e67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Branden Carr, DO Branden Carr is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma. He completed his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree at Oklahoma State University and is currently working towards his final year of residency and plan to graduate in 2023. He has been able to practice psychiatry in a wide range of environments including inpatient, outpatient, addiction, consults, and more. Branden’s goal is to obtain an excellent understanding of a client’s emotional health and to set realistic expectations that they can work towards together.
Branden Carr, DO Branden Carr is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma. He completed his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree at Oklahoma State University and is currently working towards his final year of residency and plan to graduate in 2023. He has been able to practice psychiatry in a wide range of environments including inpatient, outpatient, addiction, consults, and more. Branden’s goal is to obtain an excellent understanding of a client’s emotional health and to set realistic expectations that they can work towards together.
![Photo of Levi Stanford, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7db752f-96c7-431d-9f3b-0e5d986c7d7f/1/320x400.png)
John Levi Stanford is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), specializing in treating mental health across the lifespan. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma before going on to earn his Master of Science in Nursing as a nurse practitioner specializing in mental health at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. His love and passion for psychiatric care of patients began before nursing school when he was able to shadow psychiatrists and psychiatric-nurse practitioners that served as mentors.
John Levi Stanford is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), specializing in treating mental health across the lifespan. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma before going on to earn his Master of Science in Nursing as a nurse practitioner specializing in mental health at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. His love and passion for psychiatric care of patients began before nursing school when he was able to shadow psychiatrists and psychiatric-nurse practitioners that served as mentors.
![Photo of Nicole Bernard Washington - Elocin Psychiatric Services, PLLC, DO, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aef87b1f-e856-4bad-85ad-0e21dce37d39/3/320x400.jpeg)
Avoiding treatment due to your busy schedule or difficulty finding a psychiatrist that will see you outside of traditional hours? Are you a recognizable professional in your community and not comfortable being seen in a psychiatrist office? Tired of trying to handle your mental health issues alone? If this sounds like you, then let's talk about how I can help you take back control of your life.
Avoiding treatment due to your busy schedule or difficulty finding a psychiatrist that will see you outside of traditional hours? Are you a recognizable professional in your community and not comfortable being seen in a psychiatrist office? Tired of trying to handle your mental health issues alone? If this sounds like you, then let's talk about how I can help you take back control of your life.
![Photo of Aaron A Tabor - Tabor Behavioral Health LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c1530ad-9bd8-47e5-a7e6-86fea9f4e2b6/1/320x400.png)
We offer a wide range of services, covering all aspects of your healthcare needs. Whether you require routine check-ups, mental health evaluations, therapy sessions, or a combination of these, we have you covered. We understand that mental health and physical health are interconnected. Unlike traditional clinics, we believe in a holistic approach to your well-being, ensuring that every aspect of your care is closely coordinated and communicated between our expert team members.
We offer a wide range of services, covering all aspects of your healthcare needs. Whether you require routine check-ups, mental health evaluations, therapy sessions, or a combination of these, we have you covered. We understand that mental health and physical health are interconnected. Unlike traditional clinics, we believe in a holistic approach to your well-being, ensuring that every aspect of your care is closely coordinated and communicated between our expert team members.
![Photo of Danielle Sandbothe, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81bef237-d7bf-4bb5-891f-c69d8d38837b/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Danielle Sandbothe found her way to Oklahoma from Missouri by way of Indiana. She grew up in Jefferson City, MO and had received her bachelor's degree in Agriculture Science from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. Feeling called to serve others in a different field, she pursued medicine which led to her receiving her medical degree from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Indianapolis, IN.
Dr. Danielle Sandbothe found her way to Oklahoma from Missouri by way of Indiana. She grew up in Jefferson City, MO and had received her bachelor's degree in Agriculture Science from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. Feeling called to serve others in a different field, she pursued medicine which led to her receiving her medical degree from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Indianapolis, IN.
![Photo of Tabatha Truelove, PMHNP, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be016497-b46e-454a-b0b3-0ecb1d6d5b9e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tabatha Truelove
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Muskogee, OK 74401 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents and adults.I love to help patients reach their goals and become the best versions of themselves. I believe in a supportive environment for each of my patients. I enjoy hearing out my patients needs and offering a individual treatment plan that best supports each of my patients.
I am a board-certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents and adults.I love to help patients reach their goals and become the best versions of themselves. I believe in a supportive environment for each of my patients. I enjoy hearing out my patients needs and offering a individual treatment plan that best supports each of my patients.
![Photo of Dr. Sean Whelan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b38b8c4-c347-48d6-a14e-5786302965f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sean Whelan grew up in Oklahoma City where he graduated from Putnam City North High School. He earned his bachelor's degree of Science in Psychology from Oklahoma State University. He attended both medical school and residency for Psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma. In addition to private practice, Dr. Whelan has experience in working with Native Americans and Veteran patients as well as those in the community mental health system.
Dr. Sean Whelan grew up in Oklahoma City where he graduated from Putnam City North High School. He earned his bachelor's degree of Science in Psychology from Oklahoma State University. He attended both medical school and residency for Psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma. In addition to private practice, Dr. Whelan has experience in working with Native Americans and Veteran patients as well as those in the community mental health system.
![Photo of Dustin O Hayes, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a1b8d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in psychiatry and opioid dependence. We accept Medicaid, Medicare primary and self pay. Please visit eclipestulsa.com or call 918 799 3535 to request an appointment.
I specialize in psychiatry and opioid dependence. We accept Medicaid, Medicare primary and self pay. Please visit eclipestulsa.com or call 918 799 3535 to request an appointment.
See more therapy options for Shawnee
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Shawnee, OK
< 10
Psychiatrists in Shawnee, OK who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Suicidal Ideation |
100% | Alcohol Use |
Average years in practice
19 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Medicaid |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Health Choice |
How Psychiatrists in Shawnee, OK see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Shawnee?
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.