Psychiatrists in 98133
![Photo of Jesse P McClelland, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fdfe287-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
![Photo of Linda Bett - Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9498982-e326-4a67-8fbc-b963ac05ef90/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/977f15a7-d607-4663-91db-85ad4db471de/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Marla Brucken, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/529f4985-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management services to adults. My approach is to examine the biological, psychological, and social factors that may be contributing to your symptoms and work in partnership with you to suggest treatments or other interventions to address these factors. When medications are recommended, I prescribe conservatively and thoughtfully and use evidence- based guidelines to inform my practice. I understand that it can be difficult to reach out for help and I provide a nonjudgmental setting for you to share your challenges.
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management services to adults. My approach is to examine the biological, psychological, and social factors that may be contributing to your symptoms and work in partnership with you to suggest treatments or other interventions to address these factors. When medications are recommended, I prescribe conservatively and thoughtfully and use evidence- based guidelines to inform my practice. I understand that it can be difficult to reach out for help and I provide a nonjudgmental setting for you to share your challenges.
Geoffrey Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
![Photo of Wes Weidle, PA-C, CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468c1aef-55eb-4465-a2ec-ed203a5fe1f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am motivated to work with individuals that want to improve and feel better, and are open to approaching their mental healthcare from multiple evidence-based avenues. Accepting patients ages 16 to 70. Virtual availability M-F, in-person options on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
I am motivated to work with individuals that want to improve and feel better, and are open to approaching their mental healthcare from multiple evidence-based avenues. Accepting patients ages 16 to 70. Virtual availability M-F, in-person options on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
![Photo of Abdoulie Jallow - Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness, PMHNP-B, LPC, CADC-I, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8fc979d-b22e-4677-98bd-ad1e7d951c42/1/320x400.png)
Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, LPC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
![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 98133 (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 Sandra Fisher - Sandra Fisher ARNP, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42696c9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Fisher ARNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnosis and supportive therapy for adults of all ages and gender. I also prescribe medication. My first goal in this process will be to get to know you and your story so that we can decide together what would be best for you and your specific situation/symptoms. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help you make informed decisions regarding treatment and symptom management, which can include medication. Medication can be a helpful tool for treatment of mental health concerns. I enjoy positive and supportive relationships with my current clients and I look forward to meeting you.
I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnosis and supportive therapy for adults of all ages and gender. I also prescribe medication. My first goal in this process will be to get to know you and your story so that we can decide together what would be best for you and your specific situation/symptoms. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help you make informed decisions regarding treatment and symptom management, which can include medication. Medication can be a helpful tool for treatment of mental health concerns. I enjoy positive and supportive relationships with my current clients and I look forward to meeting you.
![Photo of Dr. Ravyn Burnett Ramos, ND, ARNP, FP-C, PMHNP, (c), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bced4e27-3a53-407a-aab0-a500cc0a216e/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Ravyn Burnett Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, ARNP, FP-C, PMHNP, (c)
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
I am a primary care provider with unique expertise in functional psychiatry and have advanced certifications in integrative mental health. I am well versed in addressing common psychiatric concerns such as chronic stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia both with conventional medications and alternative supplements. I have assisted many patients in decreasing their dependence on common psychiatric medications by addressing commonly overlooked imbalances. In addition, I also have advanced training in research-based psychedelic therapies for the treatment of refractory mental health conditions.
I am a primary care provider with unique expertise in functional psychiatry and have advanced certifications in integrative mental health. I am well versed in addressing common psychiatric concerns such as chronic stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia both with conventional medications and alternative supplements. I have assisted many patients in decreasing their dependence on common psychiatric medications by addressing commonly overlooked imbalances. In addition, I also have advanced training in research-based psychedelic therapies for the treatment of refractory mental health conditions.
![Photo of Bonnie Culbertson, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/826b9bd9-0156-4f39-8c6f-955e4d806e4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been struggling to find balance within yourself or the ability to connect to others? Mental health challenges can make it hard to feel like you belong, are worthy, or have the energy to be around others. Such challenges can leave you feeling guilty and struggling to change the direction of your life. Everyone’s journey is uniquely theirs and accompanied by challenges and obstacles. Fortunately, through the combination of therapy and medication management you can stop surviving and start working towards your important goals.
Have you been struggling to find balance within yourself or the ability to connect to others? Mental health challenges can make it hard to feel like you belong, are worthy, or have the energy to be around others. Such challenges can leave you feeling guilty and struggling to change the direction of your life. Everyone’s journey is uniquely theirs and accompanied by challenges and obstacles. Fortunately, through the combination of therapy and medication management you can stop surviving and start working towards your important goals.
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![Photo of Kyl Dinsio - Kyl Dinsio, MD, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bade06c-27c8-4ef2-9300-1ce6e686d6f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
![Photo of Deonne Brown Benedict, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2bcf12f-0711-4a08-a411-cf1fa4949140/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deonne Brown Benedict
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133 (Online Only)
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Gabriel Obu, PMHNP, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6d0c67-9fc7-4258-8b2a-c06cbd98670d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
![Photo of Jeannette Muamba, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7be36b38-33a1-436f-a5c8-cac4259d48aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
At JM Hope Wellness Services, I understand the unique challenges and aspirations of individuals seeking to unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. My ideal clients are driven to make a positive change in their personal lives, striving to overcome obstacles and embrace growth. If you want to enhance your mental well-being, develop effective strategies for success, and cultivate resilience, you've come to the right place.
At JM Hope Wellness Services, I understand the unique challenges and aspirations of individuals seeking to unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. My ideal clients are driven to make a positive change in their personal lives, striving to overcome obstacles and embrace growth. If you want to enhance your mental well-being, develop effective strategies for success, and cultivate resilience, you've come to the right place.
![Photo of Erika Benjamin, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a1d48d8-408f-43b5-8be5-6e6e6750f2ad/2/320x400.png)
Erika Benjamin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133
I am a nurse practitioner with over seven years of clinical experience. I specialize in developing profound and trusting relationships with my clients by prioritizing empathetic listening and individualized care. My commitment to client-centered care extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; I prioritize understanding each client’s unique background, values, and preferences. This holistic approach allows me to tailor evidence-based treatment plans that resonate with the individual, promoting collaboration and empowerment in their mental health journey.
I am a nurse practitioner with over seven years of clinical experience. I specialize in developing profound and trusting relationships with my clients by prioritizing empathetic listening and individualized care. My commitment to client-centered care extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; I prioritize understanding each client’s unique background, values, and preferences. This holistic approach allows me to tailor evidence-based treatment plans that resonate with the individual, promoting collaboration and empowerment in their mental health journey.
![Photo of Grace Martin, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/936d82c3-d792-48b9-8e7f-6a1c69693de2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
![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.
![Photo of Susi Jones, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c891216-5278-42a7-9643-b69444ba9a36/2/320x400.jpeg)
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
![Photo of Dr. Ravinder Marok - Family Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d8571bb-a389-414a-9a93-bb085ade59c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
See more therapy options for 98133
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98133
20+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 98133 who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
85% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
65% | Bipolar Disorder |
60% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Regence |
84% | Premera Blue Cross |
74% | First Choice Health | FCH |
How Psychiatrists in 98133 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98133?
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.