Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK
![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 James Henneberry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/267d0367-1167-41de-9229-d4ee83cb4ddf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood, post-traumatic, psychotic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. As an out of network provider, I offer services of psychotherapy (with or without medications) and focused medication visits. If you have established a relationship with another therapist and would like to continue to work with them, I am able to offer medication only visits.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood, post-traumatic, psychotic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. As an out of network provider, I offer services of psychotherapy (with or without medications) and focused medication visits. If you have established a relationship with another therapist and would like to continue to work with them, I am able to offer medication only visits.
![Photo of Gary L Massad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c65acfd2-1a84-4d5d-8117-7f03074c810e/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Dr. Gary Massad stands as a beacon in the medical community. He is a psychiatrist, widely recognized for his expertise in sports medicine, orthopedics, and workers' compensation. He dedicates his extensive knowledge and experience to the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Dr. Massad's approach to patient care is deeply rooted in his passion for listening to and understanding the unique needs of each individual and looks forward to working with the client where they are at in their current life path.
With a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Dr. Gary Massad stands as a beacon in the medical community. He is a psychiatrist, widely recognized for his expertise in sports medicine, orthopedics, and workers' compensation. He dedicates his extensive knowledge and experience to the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Dr. Massad's approach to patient care is deeply rooted in his passion for listening to and understanding the unique needs of each individual and looks forward to working with the client where they are at in their current life path.
![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 Maris Mills, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9659cb31-9a93-4226-8d69-b765d4490f38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Maris Mills, and I'm a licensed and certified physician assistant working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide mental health care to adult patients. As a psychiatry physician assistant, I work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs. I am dedicated to providing quality care by incorporating both medication management and therapy into treatment plans as needed. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for patients, focused on improving both self-compassion and interpersonal skills to improve wellbeing and achieve optimal mental health.
Hello! My name is Maris Mills, and I'm a licensed and certified physician assistant working with a board certified psychiatrist to provide mental health care to adult patients. As a psychiatry physician assistant, I work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs. I am dedicated to providing quality care by incorporating both medication management and therapy into treatment plans as needed. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for patients, focused on improving both self-compassion and interpersonal skills to improve wellbeing and achieve optimal mental health.
![Photo of Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2f07b0-8521-45d8-90f2-447c47dfe827/1/320x400.jpeg)
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73117 (Online Only)
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... 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 statewide in Oklahoma. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... 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 statewide in Oklahoma. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![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 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 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
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
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 Brooke Thompson Peyton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e30cab2b-eb4d-4dd9-ac38-599ebb253fba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Thompson Peyton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I provide compassionate, thoughtful and individualized care and will work together with you to help you improve your mental and emotional well being.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I provide compassionate, thoughtful and individualized care and will work together with you to help you improve your mental and emotional well being.
![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.
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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 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 Brandie Strange, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd600c50-0642-490a-bda5-d40e118e8bf9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandie Strange
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
I have 10+ years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. As a dual-boarded NP, I feel strongly about leaning into my experiences in physical medicine as an adjunct to my psychiatry practice. I welcome adults 18+ with special population insight in military families (AF veteran), first responders, and foster care families.
I have 10+ years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. As a dual-boarded NP, I feel strongly about leaning into my experiences in physical medicine as an adjunct to my psychiatry practice. I welcome adults 18+ with special population insight in military families (AF veteran), first responders, and foster care families.
![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
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
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 Heidi Erickson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6f5931-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.
Premier Psychiatric Care geared to the private pay patient needing the choice, flexibility, and confidentiality not found in today's behavioral health care world. Care is provided in a holistic context that encompasses the use of both conventional and complementary modalities. I currently provide services (Virtually only ) in South Florida and both in office and virtual visits in Oklahoma.
![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.
![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 73139
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.
Addiction Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC-, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
Addiction Wellness Center Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorder Treatment No matter what type of substance abuse issues you’re battling, Addiction Wellness Center is here to help you take your life back.
Addiction Wellness Center Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorder Treatment No matter what type of substance abuse issues you’re battling, Addiction Wellness Center is here to help you take your life back.
![Photo of 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.
See more therapy options for Oklahoma City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK
50+
Average cost per session
$189
Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Medication Management |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
88% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Oklahoma City, OK see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oklahoma City?
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.