Psychiatrists in 98033
![Photo of Becky Bay MD, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fcd5652-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A binnacle holds a ship's compass and keeps it stable and safe while the ship pitches and rolls. I know the world can be stormy, and strive to provide patients with the care and treatment they need to weather even the roughest patches and move towards calm waters. I chose to name my practice Binnacle Psychiatry because this represents my treatment philosophy: meet people where they are, assist them to identify their goals and provide a safe and steady harbor for them as they journey towards their goals. I offer medication management, therapy a combination of both and TMS.
A binnacle holds a ship's compass and keeps it stable and safe while the ship pitches and rolls. I know the world can be stormy, and strive to provide patients with the care and treatment they need to weather even the roughest patches and move towards calm waters. I chose to name my practice Binnacle Psychiatry because this represents my treatment philosophy: meet people where they are, assist them to identify their goals and provide a safe and steady harbor for them as they journey towards their goals. I offer medication management, therapy a combination of both and TMS.
I treat adult patients who are dealing with a variety of psychiatric conditions. Everyone who comes to my office has a unique history and needs, and together we work out an individualized treatment plan. For some, our sessions are primarily focused on psychotherapy, problem solving and encouraging healthy lifestyle changes. For others, we focus more on medication management. Regardless of the approach, the goal is to reduce suffering and improve functioning so that people are better able to lead their lives.
I treat adult patients who are dealing with a variety of psychiatric conditions. Everyone who comes to my office has a unique history and needs, and together we work out an individualized treatment plan. For some, our sessions are primarily focused on psychotherapy, problem solving and encouraging healthy lifestyle changes. For others, we focus more on medication management. Regardless of the approach, the goal is to reduce suffering and improve functioning so that people are better able to lead their lives.
![Photo of Sule Karakus, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c8f0865-dae4-4042-9cac-76361df7292c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
I obtained my medical degree from University of Istanbul Medical School. I completed my Psychiatry Specialization at Case Western Reserve University. I was the chief resident of the inpatient units at Harvard Medical School. I have held positions at Western State Hospital, Good Samaritan Behavioral Health and Navos Mental Health. I was a pediatric neurosurgeon previously and have vast experience working abroad in the international medical communities of Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Australia. I am fluent in English, German, French and Turkish. Services Offered: My focus will be on medication management.
![Photo of Leilani De Jong, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40496221-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leilani De Jong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I believe in patient-centered, integrated mental health care. The goal for each patient is to optimize individual health and wellness. I view each patient as a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, a specialized treatment plan is created in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. Therapy is typically brief and solution focused. Prescribing medications is done conscientiously, when suitable, and at the safest dosage.
I believe in patient-centered, integrated mental health care. The goal for each patient is to optimize individual health and wellness. I view each patient as a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, a specialized treatment plan is created in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. Therapy is typically brief and solution focused. Prescribing medications is done conscientiously, when suitable, and at the safest dosage.
![Photo of Dr. Ioana Hall, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bcf80ec-4d2f-4795-902e-ecb4d19b1bd8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ioana Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
My work experience is quite diverse and includes providing patient care at hospitals like Fairfax Behavioral Health, offering one-on-one psychiatry care as a practitioner at clinics like DiscoveryMD, as well as teaching the next generation of doctoral students as an Associate Professor at Seattle University. As a result, I'm able to draw upon my experience in these environments and offer a unique perspective that delivers impactful care that few providers can.
My work experience is quite diverse and includes providing patient care at hospitals like Fairfax Behavioral Health, offering one-on-one psychiatry care as a practitioner at clinics like DiscoveryMD, as well as teaching the next generation of doctoral students as an Associate Professor at Seattle University. As a result, I'm able to draw upon my experience in these environments and offer a unique perspective that delivers impactful care that few providers can.
![Photo of Micah Stansfield-Duvall - Traverse Therapy Services, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ca73434-f69b-4ace-ad48-cb8ce11cbf0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Traverse Therapy Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
We are accepting new clients! Hello my name is Micah Stansfield-Duvall Recognizing the impact of addiction and mental illness on individuals, I have been actively involved in mental health an addiction treatment programs aimed at recovery and reducing stigma. I employ evidence-based practices to help patients overcome substance use disorders and achieve long-term sobriety. I work closely with patients to stabilize and maintain their mental health related issues.
We are accepting new clients! Hello my name is Micah Stansfield-Duvall Recognizing the impact of addiction and mental illness on individuals, I have been actively involved in mental health an addiction treatment programs aimed at recovery and reducing stigma. I employ evidence-based practices to help patients overcome substance use disorders and achieve long-term sobriety. I work closely with patients to stabilize and maintain their mental health related issues.
![Photo of Meghan Bronkema, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8a382f6-fe2d-46a5-a43b-5a0fa5bc5799/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients! Using a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I am committed to hearing your story and exploring options to support you, which can include medication management, therapy, and/or deprescribing. I believe every person has the right to thrive and not simply survive, and will work with you or your children to address current issues or to simply maximize wellness. I enjoy working with people of all ages. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and medication management of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other issues that do not fit neatly into diagnostic categories.
Accepting New Clients! Using a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I am committed to hearing your story and exploring options to support you, which can include medication management, therapy, and/or deprescribing. I believe every person has the right to thrive and not simply survive, and will work with you or your children to address current issues or to simply maximize wellness. I enjoy working with people of all ages. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and medication management of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other issues that do not fit neatly into diagnostic categories.
![Photo of Dr. Michael D. Ward - Michael D. Ward, M.D., PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417bdff1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist in Kirkland, Washington with broad experience in treating adults with mental and emotional problems, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist in Kirkland, Washington with broad experience in treating adults with mental and emotional problems, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
![Photo of Zach Nelson - Active Path Mental Health, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c13ebeb-823a-45d5-a469-840b42eda402/1/320x400.png)
Active Path Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
![Photo of Massoud Stephane, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d53a818-38aa-4b74-8d74-b35f0fad16d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
![Photo of Evelyn A Dennison, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/404d3742-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a LGBTQ and alternative lifestyle friendly, board certified addiction and general psychiatrist. In addition to medication management, patients may receive psychotherapy. I draw from multiple techniques including cognitive behavioral, supportive, mindfulness, and motivational enhancement, in a warm and non-judgmental manner.
Hi! I am a LGBTQ and alternative lifestyle friendly, board certified addiction and general psychiatrist. In addition to medication management, patients may receive psychotherapy. I draw from multiple techniques including cognitive behavioral, supportive, mindfulness, and motivational enhancement, in a warm and non-judgmental manner.
![Photo of Zach Nelson, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26c9276c-0594-4003-9fc8-946989718dea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zach Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
![Photo of Zach Nelson - Active Path Mental Health, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bbed38c-b62d-4d30-9ffc-6c671bc3636e/1/320x400.png)
Active Path Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
![Photo of Dr. Daniel Daylamani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ded5a6c6-22b5-415c-84c7-e050b4e009d0/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef5cc108-cd6d-460f-941f-1da2b5f529bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
![Photo of Kaylee Petersen - North Pine Behavioral Health, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2769d47f-d0f5-43db-bd33-eac00e908cd9/2/320x400.png)
North Pine Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Kaylee, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with over 14 years of extensive experience in various healthcare settings. With a compassionate approach, I am here to support you on your journey toward mental wellness.
Welcome! My name is Kaylee, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with over 14 years of extensive experience in various healthcare settings. With a compassionate approach, I am here to support you on your journey toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Bridgette Jeffries, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cc813dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bridgette Jeffries
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
![Photo of Jessica H Gonzales, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46f51b58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica H Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. As an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I see patients 18 yo and older, which means that in addition to other tools I've gained from my advanced training, I can prescribe medication when necessary. Medication management is an important component of what I do, and when it's needed, I work collaboratively to find a regimen that works best for you. When you come to me, you may have been working with another practitioner, tried a variety of other approaches, or may be taking a step toward treatment for the first time.
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. As an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I see patients 18 yo and older, which means that in addition to other tools I've gained from my advanced training, I can prescribe medication when necessary. Medication management is an important component of what I do, and when it's needed, I work collaboratively to find a regimen that works best for you. When you come to me, you may have been working with another practitioner, tried a variety of other approaches, or may be taking a step toward treatment for the first time.
![Photo of Lisa J Trigg, PhD, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8617529-5a8a-405f-8ced-27b724f3c4da/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that individuals are the best experts on themselves and their health. I assist each patient in setting their own goals and charting their own best direction. After a thorough diagnostic evaluation, I work with patients to develop a care plan which may include some combination of nutritional adjustment, exercise, counseling and medications when appropriate. My therapeutic approach builds on my earliest nursing training and is eclectic. I draw from many modalities and have extensive experience in inpatient crisis intervention as well as outpatient care with patients with multiple mental health and medical co-morbidities.
I believe that individuals are the best experts on themselves and their health. I assist each patient in setting their own goals and charting their own best direction. After a thorough diagnostic evaluation, I work with patients to develop a care plan which may include some combination of nutritional adjustment, exercise, counseling and medications when appropriate. My therapeutic approach builds on my earliest nursing training and is eclectic. I draw from many modalities and have extensive experience in inpatient crisis intervention as well as outpatient care with patients with multiple mental health and medical co-morbidities.
![Photo of Brian D Jaeger, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f362a07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
See more therapy options for 98033
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98033
30+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in 98033 who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Bipolar Disorder |
61% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Regence |
74% | Premera Blue Cross |
71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 98033 see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98033?
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.