Psychiatrists in 97239
![Photo of Mary Lajoy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/199f05eb-1ccc-4a9e-ae08-9189ae71ca6b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
![Photo of Jean Sterry, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d50b8c1-680e-4995-a7c8-5149fe352526/2/320x400.jpeg)
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
![Photo of Jonathan T Horey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5119fc78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patients come to me with a variety of different issues, from addiction to depression, anxiety to ADHD, and many others. My initial goal is to listen to your current circumstances carefully and then discuss multiple treatment options. These options usually include gold-standard treatments like talk therapy and medications, but may also include newer treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or ketamine. Together, we will explore all of these different options and create a treatment plan together that reflects your goals and preferences.
Patients come to me with a variety of different issues, from addiction to depression, anxiety to ADHD, and many others. My initial goal is to listen to your current circumstances carefully and then discuss multiple treatment options. These options usually include gold-standard treatments like talk therapy and medications, but may also include newer treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or ketamine. Together, we will explore all of these different options and create a treatment plan together that reflects your goals and preferences.
![Photo of Tyler Clark Chipman, MN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5431e73c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tyler Clark Chipman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I work in collaborative partnership with individuals who are seeking to regain or retain industry and autonomy in their lives, to identify and achieve their goals, and to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have experience in treating difficult symptoms related to personality, mood, thoughts, trauma, anxiety, OCD, neurocognition, and autism, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults of all ages and diverse backgrounds. I fundamentally believe that healing happens in relationship and that authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and compassion are the cornerstones of helpful clinical relationships.
I work in collaborative partnership with individuals who are seeking to regain or retain industry and autonomy in their lives, to identify and achieve their goals, and to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have experience in treating difficult symptoms related to personality, mood, thoughts, trauma, anxiety, OCD, neurocognition, and autism, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults of all ages and diverse backgrounds. I fundamentally believe that healing happens in relationship and that authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and compassion are the cornerstones of helpful clinical relationships.
![Photo of Robert S McKelvey, MD, DLFAPA, LFAACAP, FRANZCP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5517fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex cases, psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy of children, adolescents, adults, and psychopharmacology. I am especially interested in the care of persons from other cultural traditions, an outgrowth of many years of clinical and research involvement with refugees from Southeast Asia, and particularly Vietnam. Prior to entering medicine, I served as a Captain in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. It was that experience that stimulated my interest in both medicine and cross-cultural psychiatry.
Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex cases, psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy of children, adolescents, adults, and psychopharmacology. I am especially interested in the care of persons from other cultural traditions, an outgrowth of many years of clinical and research involvement with refugees from Southeast Asia, and particularly Vietnam. Prior to entering medicine, I served as a Captain in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. It was that experience that stimulated my interest in both medicine and cross-cultural psychiatry.
![Photo of Lillian Nagi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33bf2cb2-3374-4f16-a34b-28737fbe922e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lillian Nagi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
![Photo of Annie Hood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44eec3ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric services to individuals ages 16 and older and have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric services to individuals ages 16 and older and have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
![Photo of Madeline Jacobs - Dr Madeline Jacobs Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7aa85b4-0c0c-4d30-8b24-40277b6a9392/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Madeline Jacobs Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Madeline Jacobs and I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist now practicing in the Portland, OR area. I completed my General Psychiatry training at Hartford Hospital/Institute of Living in Hartford, CT. My Psychiatry training was very special. I trained at one of the oldest Psychiatric Institutions in the country. This allowed me to be trained in both psychotherapy and biological (medication) aspects of psychiatric interventions. I feel I got the best of both worlds. Psychiatric medications are only one piece of the treatment puzzle, often people need other care, like psychotherapy to help resolve symptoms.
My name is Dr. Madeline Jacobs and I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist now practicing in the Portland, OR area. I completed my General Psychiatry training at Hartford Hospital/Institute of Living in Hartford, CT. My Psychiatry training was very special. I trained at one of the oldest Psychiatric Institutions in the country. This allowed me to be trained in both psychotherapy and biological (medication) aspects of psychiatric interventions. I feel I got the best of both worlds. Psychiatric medications are only one piece of the treatment puzzle, often people need other care, like psychotherapy to help resolve symptoms.
![Photo of Patricia Lawrence - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f3f470a-b45b-4ec1-8a88-b90700398aa8/2/320x400.png)
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
![Photo of Nikki Gaines, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b52466a2-608a-4dc2-89ff-594f898676fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person. I do not currently prescribe controlled substances.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person. I do not currently prescribe controlled substances.
![Photo of Lindsay Ann Howard - Headlight / Portland, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/120254ad-b841-4859-a406-bba2f1015cf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
![Photo of Nwamaka Emeruem, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c8319b3-bd42-41a2-9f47-4b54f4920053/1/320x400.png)
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
![Photo of Chaney L Reel Davis - Chaney L Reel Davis, PMHNP, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd9d450b-0033-4006-a874-acceb1fadbb7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chaney L Reel Davis, PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.
My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.
![Photo of Jaymie Stovall - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ec8eab8-5fc0-4a66-9a0c-687a61c1c871/1/320x400.png)
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients at joinlalune.com. Jaymie is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been working in healthcare for over 15 years. Since 2013, she has worked as a registered nurse and has experience in different areas such as critical care, inpatient medical care and specialty surgeries, cardiology, memory care and rehabilitation, and psychiatry. As a former member of a Program for Assertive Community Treatment (PACT), she became proficient in crisis prevention and intervention, and motivational interviewing. She is an instructor of mental health nursing at the undergraduate university level.
Accepting New Patients at joinlalune.com. Jaymie is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been working in healthcare for over 15 years. Since 2013, she has worked as a registered nurse and has experience in different areas such as critical care, inpatient medical care and specialty surgeries, cardiology, memory care and rehabilitation, and psychiatry. As a former member of a Program for Assertive Community Treatment (PACT), she became proficient in crisis prevention and intervention, and motivational interviewing. She is an instructor of mental health nursing at the undergraduate university level.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f0c94cc-f612-4b6c-967d-0c229cd0a103/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Stacey Gramann, DO, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25048130-cbf6-422d-9b10-573280083ce2/2/320x400.jpeg)
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
![Photo of Elita Wong - Elita Wong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b61b3dec-14a7-45ed-9fe1-a84015bbcbec/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elita Wong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.
Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.
![Photo of Lara Kierlin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e900dd4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Sleep Medicine. My focus is the behavioral treatment of insomnia. I provide medical supervision provided to those desiring taper off sleep medications. Telehealth is offered. Please note I do not accept insurance. Email me for rates and details: nwsleepandbehavior@gmail.com. I am currently only accepting patients located in Tennessee.
I am a psychiatrist board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Sleep Medicine. My focus is the behavioral treatment of insomnia. I provide medical supervision provided to those desiring taper off sleep medications. Telehealth is offered. Please note I do not accept insurance. Email me for rates and details: nwsleepandbehavior@gmail.com. I am currently only accepting patients located in Tennessee.
![Photo of Carmen Kosicek, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0da502c-07ac-44cb-9736-d8ae7d588ce4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carmen Kosicek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
See more therapy options for 97239
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 97239
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 97239 who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
84% | Stress |
79% | Medication Management |
74% | ADHD |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Moda Health |
69% | Aetna |
69% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in 97239 see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 97239?
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.