Psychiatrists in 98104
![Photo of Michael K. Friedman, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b755e992-0a13-4a63-977f-619751f4ceae/3/320x400.jpeg)
My specialty is psychiatry and psychoanalysis. My expertise is the diagnosis and treatment of emotional disorders. I help people understand the origins and find solutions to emotional feelings that have gotten in the way of a meaningful and satisfying life. I utilize a variety of techniques including psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and medication to help manage emotional distress.
My specialty is psychiatry and psychoanalysis. My expertise is the diagnosis and treatment of emotional disorders. I help people understand the origins and find solutions to emotional feelings that have gotten in the way of a meaningful and satisfying life. I utilize a variety of techniques including psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and medication to help manage emotional distress.
![Photo of Dorcas Mwangi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b495236d-454f-44d9-8a23-e1facaf5b203/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dorcas Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
![Photo of Melissa Osada, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edf3d653-397a-4ab3-b803-f73f0c721ab8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Osada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients in WA! Online video appointments! I provide a personal and empathetic approach to managing mental health concerns such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia through medication management. I utilize strong critical thinking and knowledge of assessment and diagnostics to provide exceptional care while at the same time successfully building relationships with patients.
Now Accepting New Patients in WA! Online video appointments! I provide a personal and empathetic approach to managing mental health concerns such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia through medication management. I utilize strong critical thinking and knowledge of assessment and diagnostics to provide exceptional care while at the same time successfully building relationships with patients.
![Photo of Dr. Nicholas Tamoria, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f47842-8baf-4b36-8f18-6b5066a274d9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicholas Tamoria
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
I provide specialty psychiatry services to adults in Washington state via telehealth. My passion is helping people from all walks of life find healing and balance for their mental health. My clients value a compassionate physician skilled in assessment and treatment of psychiatric conditions. I'm an expert on depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and more. I have a particular interest in helping leaders & professionals be healthy: executives, clinicians, public servants, business owners, managers, engineers, educators, first-responders, etc. Our interconnected communities benefit when our leaders are well.
I provide specialty psychiatry services to adults in Washington state via telehealth. My passion is helping people from all walks of life find healing and balance for their mental health. My clients value a compassionate physician skilled in assessment and treatment of psychiatric conditions. I'm an expert on depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and more. I have a particular interest in helping leaders & professionals be healthy: executives, clinicians, public servants, business owners, managers, engineers, educators, first-responders, etc. Our interconnected communities benefit when our leaders are well.
![Photo of Talia Baruch, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf5809a1-1a0f-498c-a013-bd262301f24c/1/320x400.png)
Talia Baruch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Do you struggle to find the energy to do things you once enjoyed? Activities that used to bring happiness and fulfillment now feel like an insurmountable task. Even the simplest of tasks, like getting out of bed or taking a shower, feels impossible. The constant negative thoughts and feelings are overwhelming. You might not feel as if you can ever get better but you are ready to find a way to get out of the isolating hole of depression. You are ready to start living your life again. Clients come to me looking for a compassionate and patient provider who brings them hope in even the darkest of times.
Do you struggle to find the energy to do things you once enjoyed? Activities that used to bring happiness and fulfillment now feel like an insurmountable task. Even the simplest of tasks, like getting out of bed or taking a shower, feels impossible. The constant negative thoughts and feelings are overwhelming. You might not feel as if you can ever get better but you are ready to find a way to get out of the isolating hole of depression. You are ready to start living your life again. Clients come to me looking for a compassionate and patient provider who brings them hope in even the darkest of times.
![Photo of Jesse Adams - SeattleNTC - Tacoma Bellevue Bellingham Seattle, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c64ac097-f2b7-4c47-8c86-9e832c68efef/3/320x400.jpeg)
SeattleNTC - Tacoma Bellevue Bellingham Seattle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
We are not currently accepting new patients for medication management. When depression has you ready to give up, you need doctors who won't. SeattleNTC - www.seattlentc.com - is a specialty clinic offering compassionate, expert care for severe depression and other hard-to-treat psychiatric conditions throughout the Puget Sound region. We specialize in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), esketamine (Spravato), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and other interventions for debilitating depression that has not improved with medications and psychotherapy.
We are not currently accepting new patients for medication management. When depression has you ready to give up, you need doctors who won't. SeattleNTC - www.seattlentc.com - is a specialty clinic offering compassionate, expert care for severe depression and other hard-to-treat psychiatric conditions throughout the Puget Sound region. We specialize in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), esketamine (Spravato), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and other interventions for debilitating depression that has not improved with medications and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Kristi Ramirez - EZ Mind Psychiatric Care, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a108e84-be3e-46de-a039-9f9a798672c6/3/320x400.jpeg)
EZ Mind Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Are you looking to improve your mental health? Haven't been feeling like yourself lately? Struggling to do things you enjoy? I am here to help!
Are you looking to improve your mental health? Haven't been feeling like yourself lately? Struggling to do things you enjoy? I am here to help!
![Photo of Ferdinand Akoko - Safe Space psychiatry group, PMHNP, Freddy, Akoko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4086efa0-673f-4606-8b75-be9b6759f55a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Safe Space psychiatry group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Freddy, Akoko
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
![Photo of Tshaun Grant, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddad72ff-7f98-41ee-8223-efecbd12701a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tshaun Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Tshaun Grant is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is licensed in the state of Georgia, with experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults in military facilities, inpatient crisis stabilization units, inpatient detox facilities, residential facilities, community mental health centers, and private practices.
Tshaun Grant is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is licensed in the state of Georgia, with experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults in military facilities, inpatient crisis stabilization units, inpatient detox facilities, residential facilities, community mental health centers, and private practices.
![Photo of Sarah A Pullen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f87bf9b-c5a7-4e09-acbd-6e3ecd89b29e/2/320x400.jpeg)
“A tree that is unbending is easily broken.” Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching). One of Aesop’s fables, “The Oak and the Reeds,” reflects this same idea- that a rigid oak will break in a major storm whereas the flexible reeds live on. We cannot avoid life’s storms, yet we can find ways to weather them and perhaps come out the other side a bit stronger. I believe that the key to this is resilience. It is the ability to spring back from adversity. To face the winds of life while also being strong in one’s core and true to one’s value. And after the storm, to stand up straight and tall, unbroken. My goal is to help you build your resilience.
“A tree that is unbending is easily broken.” Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching). One of Aesop’s fables, “The Oak and the Reeds,” reflects this same idea- that a rigid oak will break in a major storm whereas the flexible reeds live on. We cannot avoid life’s storms, yet we can find ways to weather them and perhaps come out the other side a bit stronger. I believe that the key to this is resilience. It is the ability to spring back from adversity. To face the winds of life while also being strong in one’s core and true to one’s value. And after the storm, to stand up straight and tall, unbroken. My goal is to help you build your resilience.
![Photo of Laura Frantz, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abf15c9c-da7b-473a-adcf-d98592e787ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Frantz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
My priority is to get to know my clients individually and understand their unique needs. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive client centered psychiatric services for adults that begins with a diagnostic evaluation and development of an evidence-based treatment plan. I strive to provide compassionate care that is individualized and collaborative. I offer services via Telehealth with a fully integrated electronic health record to make accessing care easy. I enjoy working with adults across the lifespan with a specific interest in working with individuals in the perinatal period.
My priority is to get to know my clients individually and understand their unique needs. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive client centered psychiatric services for adults that begins with a diagnostic evaluation and development of an evidence-based treatment plan. I strive to provide compassionate care that is individualized and collaborative. I offer services via Telehealth with a fully integrated electronic health record to make accessing care easy. I enjoy working with adults across the lifespan with a specific interest in working with individuals in the perinatal period.
15 Second Videos
Nicholas Tamoria
Talia Baruch
Ginny Weston
Aaron Padron
Dominique Sanders
Jonathan Allotey
![Photo of Edward Macias, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7c9bce6-0208-499e-afef-a88b38769d93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edward Macias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Blue Mountain Psychiatry is a distinguished mental health and psychiatry practice conveniently located in Seattle, Washington. Led by the experienced mental health nurse practitioner Edward Macias, PMHNP-BC, the dedicated team offers comprehensive, patient-centered care. They embrace a holistic philosophy that recognizes the intricate connections between physical, emotional, and social well-being. “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.” -Vivian Greene
Blue Mountain Psychiatry is a distinguished mental health and psychiatry practice conveniently located in Seattle, Washington. Led by the experienced mental health nurse practitioner Edward Macias, PMHNP-BC, the dedicated team offers comprehensive, patient-centered care. They embrace a holistic philosophy that recognizes the intricate connections between physical, emotional, and social well-being. “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.” -Vivian Greene
![Photo of Adam Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5b30b32-f3d8-4d83-8886-05288f6e2957/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
![Photo of Kelley Bitter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8cec85f-6204-4e9c-8004-6fd28d9b5d1e/1/320x400.png)
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call Kelley today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call Kelley today.
![Photo of William V Healey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a89fb3d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
PROVIDING ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS AND INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT Serving Seattle for over 25 years - Dr. Healey is a board-certified and HIMS-approved psychiatrist. He specializes in working with adolescents and adults, age 15 and older, suffering with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, OCD, eating disorders and ADD-spectrum disorders. Dr. William Healey also specializes in FAA Mental Health Examinations. He has performed psychiatric evaluations of pilots needing mental health clearance for medical re-certification for more than 20 years.
PROVIDING ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS AND INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT Serving Seattle for over 25 years - Dr. Healey is a board-certified and HIMS-approved psychiatrist. He specializes in working with adolescents and adults, age 15 and older, suffering with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, OCD, eating disorders and ADD-spectrum disorders. Dr. William Healey also specializes in FAA Mental Health Examinations. He has performed psychiatric evaluations of pilots needing mental health clearance for medical re-certification for more than 20 years.
![Photo of Joshua Bess, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec84a2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bess graduated from Swarthmore College and University of Michigan Medical School, completed residency at UM, including a year as a chief resident, then joined the psychiatry faculty at UM, working on the Inpatient, Consultation-Liaison and ECT teams. Interests include brain stimulation, pharmacology for treatment-resistant mood disorders and psychiatric illness complicated by medical problems.
Dr. Bess graduated from Swarthmore College and University of Michigan Medical School, completed residency at UM, including a year as a chief resident, then joined the psychiatry faculty at UM, working on the Inpatient, Consultation-Liaison and ECT teams. Interests include brain stimulation, pharmacology for treatment-resistant mood disorders and psychiatric illness complicated by medical problems.
![Photo of Jodene Jensen, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccde2faf-c6a7-4866-b942-53c24aa1cfa3/2/320x400.png)
Jodene Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients. Self-schedule at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. Jodene Jensen, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, works with patients age 14 and up who have symptoms of anxiety (generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety), mood disorders (depression, bipolar, mania), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), ADHD, PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. She will listen carefully to you to find the best personalized treatment to obtain calm and symptom relief. Accepting new patients. Schedule a free consultation at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. In-network with many insurances. Accepts private pay.
Accepting new patients. Self-schedule at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. Jodene Jensen, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, works with patients age 14 and up who have symptoms of anxiety (generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety), mood disorders (depression, bipolar, mania), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), ADHD, PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. She will listen carefully to you to find the best personalized treatment to obtain calm and symptom relief. Accepting new patients. Schedule a free consultation at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. In-network with many insurances. Accepts private pay.
![Photo of Dr. Eme Ukot, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/272ea572-f311-45fa-9705-4ec9463f8245/3/320x400.png)
Medications, Therapy, Holistic treatment + more. Need URGENT care? We can help. Is STRESS, anxiety, depression, burnout, or overwhelming emotions preventing you from living your BEST Life? Longing for relief but feeling like you've tried everything to NUMB the pain without success? You don't have to face this alone; we can help. At AB Holistic, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with compassion and understanding. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Joseph Mugenga will listen attentively to you, seeking to uncover the root causes of your distress because healing goes beyond medication.
Medications, Therapy, Holistic treatment + more. Need URGENT care? We can help. Is STRESS, anxiety, depression, burnout, or overwhelming emotions preventing you from living your BEST Life? Longing for relief but feeling like you've tried everything to NUMB the pain without success? You don't have to face this alone; we can help. At AB Holistic, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with compassion and understanding. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Joseph Mugenga will listen attentively to you, seeking to uncover the root causes of your distress because healing goes beyond medication.
![Photo of Ginny Weston, MS, MSN, LPCC, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acd0428e-59b8-4d6e-bf65-5121d33068c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ginny Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MSN, LPCC, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients as of 10/11/2023. Please contact the office directly by calling the number listed. Ms. Weston is a board-certified lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in all ages, including children and adolescents, the LGBTQ+ population, as well as prenatal/postnatal mental healthcare. She also specializes in telehealth having been online since 2018. She currently offers medication management in Oregon (self pay and insurance) and Washington (self pay only at this time). Will be expanding to Alaska.
Accepting new patients as of 10/11/2023. Please contact the office directly by calling the number listed. Ms. Weston is a board-certified lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in all ages, including children and adolescents, the LGBTQ+ population, as well as prenatal/postnatal mental healthcare. She also specializes in telehealth having been online since 2018. She currently offers medication management in Oregon (self pay and insurance) and Washington (self pay only at this time). Will be expanding to Alaska.
![Photo of Brandon L Flowers - Flowers Family Psychiatry , MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f905c6-b07b-4fb5-a075-1b2236208c3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Flowers Family Psychiatry, where compassionate care meets evidence-based practice. Flowers Family Psychiatry is committed to guiding individuals through challenging times with an open-minded, affirming, and empathetic approach. At Flowers Family Psychiatry, we understand the importance of providing non-judgmental support to individuals across the lifespan.
Welcome to Flowers Family Psychiatry, where compassionate care meets evidence-based practice. Flowers Family Psychiatry is committed to guiding individuals through challenging times with an open-minded, affirming, and empathetic approach. At Flowers Family Psychiatry, we understand the importance of providing non-judgmental support to individuals across the lifespan.
See more therapy options for 98104
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98104
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 98104 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
77% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Stress |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 98104 see their clients
62% | Online Only | |
38% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
32% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98104?
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.