Psychiatrists in 97701
Nw Mind-Body Wellness: Rebecca Dorsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ENP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
Valerie Spear
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, personalized care to address their unique mental health needs. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their well-being. Their goals may include regaining balance, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving lasting positive change.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, personalized care to address their unique mental health needs. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their well-being. Their goals may include regaining balance, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving lasting positive change.
Doctor B Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has experience working in county-based, residential, secure inpatient, and rural psychiatric settings. My clinical approach is egalitarian; collaborating with patients and their loved ones to thoroughly provide education on mental health options for patients to make decisions that are subjectively best for their healing, wholeness, and longitudinal health.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has experience working in county-based, residential, secure inpatient, and rural psychiatric settings. My clinical approach is egalitarian; collaborating with patients and their loved ones to thoroughly provide education on mental health options for patients to make decisions that are subjectively best for their healing, wholeness, and longitudinal health.
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.
Cypress Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Accepting New Clients in 2024: At Cypress Psychiatric Care, we are partners in your care. You know yourself more than anyone else, and this insight will allow for efficient and effective outcomes. In my office, my goal is to create a supportive haven where you will be seen through a holistic lens, heard, and respected.
Accepting New Clients in 2024: At Cypress Psychiatric Care, we are partners in your care. You know yourself more than anyone else, and this insight will allow for efficient and effective outcomes. In my office, my goal is to create a supportive haven where you will be seen through a holistic lens, heard, and respected.
Jonathan McCully
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
My name is Jon McCully. I am a board-certified PMHNP located in Bend, Oregon seeing patients via the internet throughout Oregon. I am accepting new patients ages 18 to 65. I have a strong military, first responder, and social services treatment background and understand the unique situations these professions face. I work with people from all different walks of life as well. With a "think like a nurse first mentality," the core of how I practice is understanding the whole person and the interplay of biological, socio-cultural, and environmental factors that influence mental health and wellbeing unique to only you.
My name is Jon McCully. I am a board-certified PMHNP located in Bend, Oregon seeing patients via the internet throughout Oregon. I am accepting new patients ages 18 to 65. I have a strong military, first responder, and social services treatment background and understand the unique situations these professions face. I work with people from all different walks of life as well. With a "think like a nurse first mentality," the core of how I practice is understanding the whole person and the interplay of biological, socio-cultural, and environmental factors that influence mental health and wellbeing unique to only you.
Tallon Reeder Lamoreaux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Milwaukie, Oregon. I have a professional background working in various mental health settings including both acute and residential inpatient treatment, addiction and recovery, youth behavioral health and general outpatient psychiatry. As a nurse practitioner, my approach to treatment is first getting to know you and the unique circumstances that play a role in your mental health. Building rapport and trust is vital in order to collaborate on the best treatment plan for each individual.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Milwaukie, Oregon. I have a professional background working in various mental health settings including both acute and residential inpatient treatment, addiction and recovery, youth behavioral health and general outpatient psychiatry. As a nurse practitioner, my approach to treatment is first getting to know you and the unique circumstances that play a role in your mental health. Building rapport and trust is vital in order to collaborate on the best treatment plan for each individual.
Ideally, I work with clients who are looking for relief from anxiety and depression, those suffering from PTSD, and those with chronic pain. Fortunately, ketamine is compatible with many medications and you may continue your current therapy throughout induction phases. After this initial phase, it is often possible to wean or eliminate certain medications, as well as alleviate troubling symptoms from your daily life.
Ideally, I work with clients who are looking for relief from anxiety and depression, those suffering from PTSD, and those with chronic pain. Fortunately, ketamine is compatible with many medications and you may continue your current therapy throughout induction phases. After this initial phase, it is often possible to wean or eliminate certain medications, as well as alleviate troubling symptoms from your daily life.
Megan R Hartsell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
I own a small private practice based out of Bend, but am seeing patients throughout Oregon. While I specialize in child, adolescent, and young adult psychiatry, I am trained to provide psychiatric care to all ages. I have experience treating many mental health ailments, such as anxiety, OCD, depressed mood, ADHD, mood disorders, behavioral disturbance, PTSD, and more. I provide diagnostic assessments, medication management, and some supportive psychotherapy.
I own a small private practice based out of Bend, but am seeing patients throughout Oregon. While I specialize in child, adolescent, and young adult psychiatry, I am trained to provide psychiatric care to all ages. I have experience treating many mental health ailments, such as anxiety, OCD, depressed mood, ADHD, mood disorders, behavioral disturbance, PTSD, and more. I provide diagnostic assessments, medication management, and some supportive psychotherapy.
Julia Jansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
15 Second Videos
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
High Desert Psychiatry
Kennedy Anyanwu
Peri Mayes
Lyntressa Grant
Megan Bowers
Uchechi Uka
Mercy Ngeusang
Pw psych no svcs pllc
Aktsa Simon
Jessica L Hilbert
Danielle Brown
Brittnai Johnson
Joanne Schroeder
Nkechi Ukomadu
Danielle Hammons
Ross Brown
Todd Infinger
Brandi Yund
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Rebecca Dorsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP , ENP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS: OR, MT, & WA** As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS: OR, MT, & WA** As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
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.
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
Terri Leigh Squires Licensed Medical Provider In Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NBCC, LPC, FNP-BC, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Emergency Psych,Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Emergency Psych,Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
She Soars Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MN, BSN, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
Audry Van Houweling, PMHNP-BC founded She Soars Psychiatry with the intent of providing a fresh approach to confronting mental health concerns that focuses not only on medication, but to the multiple factors that can impact emotional wellness. Factors may include hormone balance, cellular function, nutrition, immune function, organ function, gastrointestinal health, and certainly social and spiritual circumstances. She Soars Psychiatry offers holistic mental health solutions to individuals and families including medication management, counseling, and functional medicine. Accepting insurance and low monthly memberships available!
Audry Van Houweling, PMHNP-BC founded She Soars Psychiatry with the intent of providing a fresh approach to confronting mental health concerns that focuses not only on medication, but to the multiple factors that can impact emotional wellness. Factors may include hormone balance, cellular function, nutrition, immune function, organ function, gastrointestinal health, and certainly social and spiritual circumstances. She Soars Psychiatry offers holistic mental health solutions to individuals and families including medication management, counseling, and functional medicine. Accepting insurance and low monthly memberships available!
High Desert Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
Aspire Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
TELEHEALTH SERVICES THROUGHOUT OREGON. Aspire Mental Health & Wellness is committed to providing individualized care to help foster the healing, personal growth, and balance that you seek. We provide mental health care across the lifespan for adults, adolescents, and youth ages 7 and older.
TELEHEALTH SERVICES THROUGHOUT OREGON. Aspire Mental Health & Wellness is committed to providing individualized care to help foster the healing, personal growth, and balance that you seek. We provide mental health care across the lifespan for adults, adolescents, and youth ages 7 and older.
See more therapy options for 97701
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 97701
50+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in 97701 who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
76% | Aetna |
65% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 97701 see their clients
64% | Online Only | |
36% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 97701?
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.