Psychiatrists in Yukon, OK
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fe78caf-fc81-4a07-8b9a-3b71d77ee9e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Mildred Blandamer - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d195fd3-e2fd-4af5-a7b1-628e8ce84e71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Laurie Ray - Advanced Practice Mental Health, LLC , PA-C , CAQ psy, LCSW, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5de2f4c-5b69-43ff-91dc-15cba0eb3de2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Advanced Practice Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, PA-C , CAQ psy, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099
Hello, I'm Laurie Ray, a Board Certified PA-C with a Certificate of Advanced Qualification in psychiatry and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide quality care to patients. My recent work includes inpatient/outpatient services for those suffering from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunction and OCD. Caring for Veterans, couples and individuals, I have learned to personalize patient care. My promise is to provide an open, safe and non-judgemental environment in which we can work together to achieve your optimal mental health.
Hello, I'm Laurie Ray, a Board Certified PA-C with a Certificate of Advanced Qualification in psychiatry and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide quality care to patients. My recent work includes inpatient/outpatient services for those suffering from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunction and OCD. Caring for Veterans, couples and individuals, I have learned to personalize patient care. My promise is to provide an open, safe and non-judgemental environment in which we can work together to achieve your optimal mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Thrive Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Mustang, OK 73064
I want to help you move past your trauma, find your purpose and achieve your goals. I want to support full self acceptance and help you learn healthy ways to process emotions. I use EMDR, mindfulness, meditation and direct communication. I like to challenge your perspective with validation and help you gain new insights.
I want to help you move past your trauma, find your purpose and achieve your goals. I want to support full self acceptance and help you learn healthy ways to process emotions. I use EMDR, mindfulness, meditation and direct communication. I like to challenge your perspective with validation and help you gain new insights.
![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 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 Nicoline Edie - Reliance Mental Health and Functional Medicine, PMHNP, FNP, FMA-CP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94cb9b27-58e5-489a-983d-9d39558f32bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Reliance Mental Health and Functional Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, FMA-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethany, OK 73008
Welcome! We are a mental health and primary care clinic that serves 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, we work with addiction medicine and are committed to helping as many patients in need as we can. With patient safety in mind, we are more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy and referrals. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage and clinic hours.
Welcome! We are a mental health and primary care clinic that serves 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, we work with addiction medicine and are committed to helping as many patients in need as we can. With patient safety in mind, we are more than willing to provide medication management to help people with mental health needs with not only medication but therapy and referrals. Please do not hesitate to call the office to verify insurance coverage and clinic hours.
![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 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 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 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 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 Ebonie Pankey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cd86e1e-4482-46c5-9e5a-4dc4d873ff82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ebonie Pankey is Nurse Practitioner who specializes as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Oklahoma and then earned her Master of Science degree at Simmons University in Boston, MA as an FNP. She also received her Post Master's degree at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA as a PMHNP. While obtaining her FNP and PMHNP, she maintained Cum Laude status. Ebonie also volunteers as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner with the Women's Resource Center in Norman, OK. Ebonie is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Ebonie Pankey is Nurse Practitioner who specializes as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Oklahoma and then earned her Master of Science degree at Simmons University in Boston, MA as an FNP. She also received her Post Master's degree at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA as a PMHNP. While obtaining her FNP and PMHNP, she maintained Cum Laude status. Ebonie also volunteers as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner with the Women's Resource Center in Norman, OK. Ebonie is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
![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 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 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 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 Meryl Aaron Msn Aprn, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/540610de-36b1-469c-b95a-3916688cbb89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meryl Aaron Msn Aprn
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 Ambeson Cornell Ambe - Reliance Mental Health And Functional Medicine , CNP, APRN, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2ed291f-138a-4fdf-ad8f-fa43961a1481/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reliance Mental Health And Functional Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethany, OK 73008
As your PMHNP, I prioritize your well-being and trust above all else. With compassion and expertise, I'm here to support you on your mental health journey. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and work towards a brighter, healthier future. Your voice matters, and I'm committed to listening, understanding, and guiding you with respect and empathy. Let's embark on this journey together, building a foundation of trust and collaboration every step of the way.
As your PMHNP, I prioritize your well-being and trust above all else. With compassion and expertise, I'm here to support you on your mental health journey. Together, we'll navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and work towards a brighter, healthier future. Your voice matters, and I'm committed to listening, understanding, and guiding you with respect and empathy. Let's embark on this journey together, building a foundation of trust and collaboration every step of the way.
![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 Yukon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Yukon, OK
< 10
Psychiatrists in Yukon, OK who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Stress |
67% | Eating Disorders |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Yukon, OK see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Yukon?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.