Psychiatrists in Broken Arrow, OK
![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.
![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 Ashley Totten-Gilbert, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d474762d-8c2e-4a1f-83d8-5fc0c33ac1ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Totten-Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Broken Arrow, OK 74012 (Online Only)
Ashley Totten-Gilbert is the founder of Ashco Psych and Wellness. She has more than 21 years experience in the medical field. Ashley Totten-Gilbert is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and board-certified adult geriatric primary care nurse practitioner by ANCC.
Ashley Totten-Gilbert is the founder of Ashco Psych and Wellness. She has more than 21 years experience in the medical field. Ashley Totten-Gilbert is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and board-certified adult geriatric primary care nurse practitioner by ANCC.
![Photo of Bracie Haworth, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7bb734-aebb-42c4-861b-66c210a98489/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Broken Arrow, OK 74012 (Online Only)
I'm Bracie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Bracie, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
![Photo of Judy Wagga, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/454171a1-19e3-47d0-b71a-e2eb0cc01f58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Judy Wagga is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over nine years of experience in psychiatric nursing including behavioral health, rehabilitation, addiction, jail nursing and community hospital settings. She is currently working with children, youth and adults to manage, prescribe medications and support patients and their families. Judy has excellent communication skills, is a detail oriented, personable professional.
Judy Wagga is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over nine years of experience in psychiatric nursing including behavioral health, rehabilitation, addiction, jail nursing and community hospital settings. She is currently working with children, youth and adults to manage, prescribe medications and support patients and their families. Judy has excellent communication skills, is a detail oriented, personable professional.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Andrew Carter, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a06a86a-1261-4a77-8454-2775b414d7fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Carter is a physician assistant, practicing in psychiatry since 2009. He graduated from Missouri State University with a Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Andrew believes in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and assisting a person to find the best treatment option(s) for the situation. Andrew's main role is to treat with medications, though he understands there are nonpharmacological approaches to explore as well. His main areas of focus include depression, insomnia and various types of anxiety, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Andrew Carter is a physician assistant, practicing in psychiatry since 2009. He graduated from Missouri State University with a Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Andrew believes in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and assisting a person to find the best treatment option(s) for the situation. Andrew's main role is to treat with medications, though he understands there are nonpharmacological approaches to explore as well. His main areas of focus include depression, insomnia and various types of anxiety, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
![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 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 Kara Lynn Alger, APRN, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f01ae31c-2ed2-42cb-b553-0b3a876fba8c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kara, our esteemed Nurse Practitioner at Mind Rejuvenation, is ANCC Board Certified and holds a Doctorate of Nursing from Oklahoma City University. She brings over a decade of specialized experience to our team. Her firsthand knowledge from bodybuilding and CrossFit over the years has shaped her insight into the body’s capabilities and recovery processes, enriching her approach to patient care. She's skilled in managing ADHD trauma, providing psychiatric evaluations, and overseeing medication management, ensuring tailored care for each patient. On weekends, she dedicates her time to Laureate in-patient care.
Kara, our esteemed Nurse Practitioner at Mind Rejuvenation, is ANCC Board Certified and holds a Doctorate of Nursing from Oklahoma City University. She brings over a decade of specialized experience to our team. Her firsthand knowledge from bodybuilding and CrossFit over the years has shaped her insight into the body’s capabilities and recovery processes, enriching her approach to patient care. She's skilled in managing ADHD trauma, providing psychiatric evaluations, and overseeing medication management, ensuring tailored care for each patient. On weekends, she dedicates her time to Laureate in-patient care.
![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
Tulsa, OK 74136 (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 Sarah Aafedt, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d77112f-7ad5-46c8-94af-b6bcc4277d26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah is a Physician Assistant in the Tulsa area and has over nineteen years of experience in the field of psychiatry. She was born and raised in Kansas where she first started working in health care and developed a love of helping other people with their medical needs. She attended Friends University in Wichita, Kansas where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Science in Human Services/Psychology in 2001. She graduated from Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
Sarah is a Physician Assistant in the Tulsa area and has over nineteen years of experience in the field of psychiatry. She was born and raised in Kansas where she first started working in health care and developed a love of helping other people with their medical needs. She attended Friends University in Wichita, Kansas where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Science in Human Services/Psychology in 2001. She graduated from Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
![Photo of Janefrances Ologolo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3a385fc-5ce3-44ed-a84f-f16df4a7eba9/1/320x400.png)
Jane Ologolo is a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Langston University-Tulsa Campus, a FNP-Masters from Maryville University, and a PMHNP-Post-Masters from Maryville University. Jane believes in individualized treatment plans, as every person is unique in their way. She firmly believes in fairness, compassion, and respect in dealing with her patients. In her spare time, Jane enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family.
Jane Ologolo is a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Langston University-Tulsa Campus, a FNP-Masters from Maryville University, and a PMHNP-Post-Masters from Maryville University. Jane believes in individualized treatment plans, as every person is unique in their way. She firmly believes in fairness, compassion, and respect in dealing with her patients. In her spare time, Jane enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family.
![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
Jenks, OK 74037 (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 Rachael Touma, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d485cb5-4b91-4f92-8bd2-ee907b5ea8a3/1/320x400.png)
Rachael Touma is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama and is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her nursing career began at the University of Oklahoma where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She holds an additional Bachelor of Science in Education from Northeastern State University. Professionally, Rachael has a diverse resume.
Rachael Touma is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama and is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her nursing career began at the University of Oklahoma where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She holds an additional Bachelor of Science in Education from Northeastern State University. Professionally, Rachael has a diverse resume.
![Photo of Jeffrey Owen, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa7ee4f6-6691-4bce-9358-ab5e4a102ebf/1/320x400.png)
Jeffrey Owen is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma with more than four years of academic experience. He has a Bachelor Dual degree from the University of Oklahoma, a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Oklahoma State University CHS, and completed his Psychiatry Residency at Ozark Center sponsored by KCU. After residency, he served as Clinical Associate Professor at Ozark Center and Clinical Assistant Professor at OU Department of Psychiatry. Jeffrey believes in empowering people in his community with evidence-based medicine to optimize their mental well-being.
Jeffrey Owen is a Psychiatrist in Oklahoma with more than four years of academic experience. He has a Bachelor Dual degree from the University of Oklahoma, a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Oklahoma State University CHS, and completed his Psychiatry Residency at Ozark Center sponsored by KCU. After residency, he served as Clinical Associate Professor at Ozark Center and Clinical Assistant Professor at OU Department of Psychiatry. Jeffrey believes in empowering people in his community with evidence-based medicine to optimize their mental well-being.
![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 Rachel Dalthorp, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfd10726-7af0-4d7a-9039-5c7f52c3fe41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rachel Dalthorp received her medical degree from the University Of Oklahoma College Of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a four year psychiatric residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center where she focused on developing expertise in the assessment and treatment of mood disorders related to the female reproductive cycle. Dr. Dalthorp completed specialized training in the treatment of female sexual disorders and the use of psychedelic medications to treat depression.
Dr. Rachel Dalthorp received her medical degree from the University Of Oklahoma College Of Medicine. Following medical school she completed a four year psychiatric residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center where she focused on developing expertise in the assessment and treatment of mood disorders related to the female reproductive cycle. Dr. Dalthorp completed specialized training in the treatment of female sexual disorders and the use of psychedelic medications to treat depression.
![Photo of Heath Mueller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5517fc7-f42d-4d3d-b348-63543e73eee0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Heath Mueller is board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed both her Bachelor of Science degree and her Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Oklahoma. Following completion of her medical training, she completed four years of training in general psychiatry at the OU-TU School of Community Medicine. While in residency she gained additional experience in psychiatric crisis management while moonlighting at the Tulsa Center for Behavioral Health.
Dr. Heath Mueller is board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed both her Bachelor of Science degree and her Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Oklahoma. Following completion of her medical training, she completed four years of training in general psychiatry at the OU-TU School of Community Medicine. While in residency she gained additional experience in psychiatric crisis management while moonlighting at the Tulsa Center for Behavioral Health.
![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
Tulsa, OK 74133
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.
![Photo of Channel Johnson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89f19dd8-62a2-4637-a119-22dbc0a4db34/1/320x400.jpeg)
Channel Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from the University of Tulsa, a Master's of Science of Nursing, Specialty Family Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University, and a Master of Science of Nursing, Specialty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Channel strives to provide personalized care and focus on each individual's needs. To each individual client, she strives to provide compassionate care.
Channel Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from the University of Tulsa, a Master's of Science of Nursing, Specialty Family Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University, and a Master of Science of Nursing, Specialty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Channel strives to provide personalized care and focus on each individual's needs. To each individual client, she strives to provide compassionate care.
See more therapy options for Broken Arrow
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Broken Arrow, OK
< 10
Psychiatrists in Broken Arrow, OK who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Addiction |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Medication Management |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Broken Arrow, OK see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Broken Arrow?
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.