Psychiatrists in 98125
![Photo of Jibran Ahmed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e41765f-a527-46c8-8d2e-2ec2df489865/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
![Photo of Christopher Wilson - Mindful Health Solutions, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c268868d-5945-4fae-8cbc-4294c04133e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal patient is someone who is willing to collaborate with me to create the best treatment plan possible for their unique needs. I enjoy answering questions so each patient understands the process. I also aspire to be a supportive ally for patients who are LGBTQIA+ or from any other minority community.
My ideal patient is someone who is willing to collaborate with me to create the best treatment plan possible for their unique needs. I enjoy answering questions so each patient understands the process. I also aspire to be a supportive ally for patients who are LGBTQIA+ or from any other minority community.
![Photo of Seong-Hun Kim, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb80f3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
![Photo of Andrew Jackenheimer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4c1ac81-efd3-4a71-ba7f-07fcaa0aba59/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m not sure I have an “ideal” patient. Most of my career has been spent treating anyone who came to the hospital or was assigned to my care. If I reflect on some patient success stories, each case was collaborative, utilizing evidence-based medicine with patients that had a high degree of motivation to get better, either utilizing medication or therapy and to maintain their recovery through self-care.
I’m not sure I have an “ideal” patient. Most of my career has been spent treating anyone who came to the hospital or was assigned to my care. If I reflect on some patient success stories, each case was collaborative, utilizing evidence-based medicine with patients that had a high degree of motivation to get better, either utilizing medication or therapy and to maintain their recovery through self-care.
![Photo of William Kamens - Mindful Health Solutions, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9bcf3a7-a503-4271-bcfd-a7a0c3397282/2/320x400.png)
I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I like to know what my patients’ goals are so I can tailor the treatment to help them achieve their goals as much as possible. Knowing what’s important to my patients helps me know what treatments to recommend or when to suggest a change to the treatment. I find that patients experience the most success if they are open to talking about their treatment options.
I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I like to know what my patients’ goals are so I can tailor the treatment to help them achieve their goals as much as possible. Knowing what’s important to my patients helps me know what treatments to recommend or when to suggest a change to the treatment. I find that patients experience the most success if they are open to talking about their treatment options.
![Photo of Nicholas Kenneth Garmon, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e66231e3-ac98-493f-b2a3-5dbd4bd8e42e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Kenneth Garmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
![Photo of Albert Wertz - Mindful Health Solutions, DO, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/668278af-16c1-4438-ab6b-dd310847ee5f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Come see us at Mindful Health Solutions. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual, not just the diagnosis. Our treatment goal is the least medications needed to target specific goals, and optimize personal functionality and well-being. We promise to listen, treat you like an integral part of the treatment team and collaborate towards a plan that is best suited for your needs. All care is secured and private. Accepting multiple insurance carriers. Mindful Health now features Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Wenatchee, WA.
Come see us at Mindful Health Solutions. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual, not just the diagnosis. Our treatment goal is the least medications needed to target specific goals, and optimize personal functionality and well-being. We promise to listen, treat you like an integral part of the treatment team and collaborate towards a plan that is best suited for your needs. All care is secured and private. Accepting multiple insurance carriers. Mindful Health now features Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Wenatchee, WA.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ac76a3b-36cf-4324-b9a6-350d82bfbf09/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
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 Jinn Schladweiler, MN, OEHN, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/256cb7e6-a34d-4f81-9616-1b4b406e8682/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jinn Schladweiler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, OEHN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125 (Online Only)
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
![Photo of Ashley Harmon - Ashley Harmon, M.D. PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f32767-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Harmon, M.D. PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
Not accepting new clients
Symptoms and diagnoses do not define who we are. Mental health is more than symptom reduction, and there are mulitple ways of understanding their powerful impact on our lives. Addressing root causes leads to mental health. Through connection, curiosity, and collaboration, we create practical treatment plans based on your lived experience, neurobiology, and personal mental health goals. Increasing self-awareness and compassion empowers and promotes resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. I am honored to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Symptoms and diagnoses do not define who we are. Mental health is more than symptom reduction, and there are mulitple ways of understanding their powerful impact on our lives. Addressing root causes leads to mental health. Through connection, curiosity, and collaboration, we create practical treatment plans based on your lived experience, neurobiology, and personal mental health goals. Increasing self-awareness and compassion empowers and promotes resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. I am honored to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
![Photo of Deborah Seidel - Deborah Seidel ARNP, ARNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459c5be3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.
Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.
15 Second Videos
Jack Mkroyan
John Benson
Cate Gerrity
![Photo of Callie McEwen, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d1ca87d-c76f-4e21-847e-96d48ad36a4a/2/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and compassionate mental health services to adolescents and adults ages 14 and older. Safety and evidence-based practice are my priority when creating a successful comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. I help my clients find effective medications with minimal side effects and achieve greater wellness with lifestyle modifications. I aim to work together as a collaborative team and may refer for additional testing and support.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and compassionate mental health services to adolescents and adults ages 14 and older. Safety and evidence-based practice are my priority when creating a successful comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. I help my clients find effective medications with minimal side effects and achieve greater wellness with lifestyle modifications. I aim to work together as a collaborative team and may refer for additional testing and support.
![Photo of Jennifer Hogan, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2aa09026-8ba0-49f7-8961-793b14a48193/2/320x400.png)
Jennifer Hogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to developing trusting, collaborative, and effective working relationships with my clients. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach to mental health which can include psychotherapy, lifestyle and environmental modifications, and medication when necessary. The primary services I offer include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnosis, medication management, as well as psychoeducation and brief therapeutic interventions.
I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to developing trusting, collaborative, and effective working relationships with my clients. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach to mental health which can include psychotherapy, lifestyle and environmental modifications, and medication when necessary. The primary services I offer include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnosis, medication management, as well as psychoeducation and brief therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of John Benson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84432685-abee-4d28-8577-af79147fd9ae/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
![Photo of Tammy Lipke, DNP, ARNP, FNPC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ed37c6d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tammy Lipke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNPC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
Reaching a higher level of personal satisfaction may mean overcoming anxiety, depression, mood or thought disorders, attention and focus deficits, or other challenges.
Reaching a higher level of personal satisfaction may mean overcoming anxiety, depression, mood or thought disorders, attention and focus deficits, or other challenges.
![Photo of Fadumo (Fatima) I Omar - Logical Mental Health Services, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc2de76-e4ab-401d-be4a-c988fe43e3f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Logical Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125 (Online Only)
Hi, thanks for stopping by I'm Fatima, I'm a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, in past 15 years I have served patients in medical and mental health facilities both inpatient and outpatient. I have in the past and currently am comfortable with treating patients that are struggling with complex medical and mental health conditions. I enjoy working with patients utilizing a collaborative approach in finding solutions for various mental health challenges/conditions. I am currently accepting new patients.
Hi, thanks for stopping by I'm Fatima, I'm a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, in past 15 years I have served patients in medical and mental health facilities both inpatient and outpatient. I have in the past and currently am comfortable with treating patients that are struggling with complex medical and mental health conditions. I enjoy working with patients utilizing a collaborative approach in finding solutions for various mental health challenges/conditions. I am currently accepting new patients.
![Photo of Cate Gerrity, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d64ee5b-a580-477a-8994-9f0c78d20fb9/2/320x400.png)
Cate Gerrity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. I'm an active and compassionate listener. I hold a holistic view of mental healthcare, and am thorough in working with my patients to determine best next steps for them. My style is very collaborative. This means we will discuss multiple treatment options, pros and cons of each, and together make a decision how to move forward. Patient education is critical and I work to help patients understand both their mental health conditions and the role of medication.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. I'm an active and compassionate listener. I hold a holistic view of mental healthcare, and am thorough in working with my patients to determine best next steps for them. My style is very collaborative. This means we will discuss multiple treatment options, pros and cons of each, and together make a decision how to move forward. Patient education is critical and I work to help patients understand both their mental health conditions and the role of medication.
![Photo of Linda Corey, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8fa072c-6a15-48d8-8813-9117e6ad97bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in diagnosing and managing the medications of adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
I specialize in diagnosing and managing the medications of adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
See more therapy options for 98125
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98125
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 98125 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Premera Blue Cross |
88% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 98125 see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
41% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98125?
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.