Psychiatrists in 98682

Photo of Deb Kiehlmeier, DO, Psychiatrist
Deb Kiehlmeier
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Washington. I do have some in-person availability for those local to Portland. I have experience diagnosing and treating all mental health disorders, but focus primarily on ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety (including PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Washington. I do have some in-person availability for those local to Portland. I have experience diagnosing and treating all mental health disorders, but focus primarily on ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety (including PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
(360) 776-3228 View (360) 776-3228
Photo of Shannon Paris - Autism Diagnostics, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Autism Diagnostics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Autism diagnoses can have lengthy wait times and can be costly. Delays in getting a child diagnosed can set them back several years developmentally as they miss out on vital intervention time. At ASC, we strive to bridge the gap and increase access to care. Shannon Paris is a Center of Excellence Provider which is often required in Washington state for insurance to authorize vital services such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). Early diagnoses can also help with and increase access to developmental preschool and aid in the development of individualized education plans (IEP) to help set your child up for success in school.
Autism diagnoses can have lengthy wait times and can be costly. Delays in getting a child diagnosed can set them back several years developmentally as they miss out on vital intervention time. At ASC, we strive to bridge the gap and increase access to care. Shannon Paris is a Center of Excellence Provider which is often required in Washington state for insurance to authorize vital services such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). Early diagnoses can also help with and increase access to developmental preschool and aid in the development of individualized education plans (IEP) to help set your child up for success in school.
(360) 614-2011 View (360) 614-2011
Photo of Christopher Douglas Cator, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Douglas Cator
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
Everyone is welcome here for therapy and medication management. As a passionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will work collaboratively with you, the patient, to regain and maintain balance in your life. I primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Using current evidence-based practices and your feedback, we will gather information, diagnose, and implement the best plan that fits your needs.
Everyone is welcome here for therapy and medication management. As a passionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will work collaboratively with you, the patient, to regain and maintain balance in your life. I primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Using current evidence-based practices and your feedback, we will gather information, diagnose, and implement the best plan that fits your needs.
(360) 245-2444 View (360) 245-2444
Photo of Annemieke Clark Emch, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annemieke Clark Emch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Whether you are just starting to explore if psychiatric medications might be helpful for you, you have a regimen that you feel could benefit from a fresh perspective, or you are happy with your current regimen and just need a new provider, choosing a new practitioner for your mental health team can be daunting. I work with people who are dealing with the full spectrum of psychiatric symptoms and stressors. I will conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and make evidence-based recommendations for medications and interventions that can help restore your sense of equilibrium and self-efficacy and support you in meeting your goals.
Whether you are just starting to explore if psychiatric medications might be helpful for you, you have a regimen that you feel could benefit from a fresh perspective, or you are happy with your current regimen and just need a new provider, choosing a new practitioner for your mental health team can be daunting. I work with people who are dealing with the full spectrum of psychiatric symptoms and stressors. I will conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and make evidence-based recommendations for medications and interventions that can help restore your sense of equilibrium and self-efficacy and support you in meeting your goals.
(360) 203-7981 View (360) 203-7981
Photo of Dani McLaughlin, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dani McLaughlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682
Appointments can be booked on my website www.northwestintegrativepsychiatry.com under the Services tab. About me: My name is Dani McLaughlin and I’m a doctorally-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I approach treatment from a holistic perspective considering how physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being impacts mental illness. I recognize that each individual is unique with different concerns and goals for treatment. I value collaboration and will work alongside you on your journey toward better mental health.
Appointments can be booked on my website www.northwestintegrativepsychiatry.com under the Services tab. About me: My name is Dani McLaughlin and I’m a doctorally-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I approach treatment from a holistic perspective considering how physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being impacts mental illness. I recognize that each individual is unique with different concerns and goals for treatment. I value collaboration and will work alongside you on your journey toward better mental health.
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Photo of Macbarbara Amaechi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Macbarbara Amaechi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Hi, my name is Macbarbara Amaechi, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I utilize a philosophy that is based on holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to managing and treating all types of mental illness. I will help identify the approach that will balance your mind while utilizing Evidenced based practice. I am open-minded and my goal is to build therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique an individualized patient care
Hi, my name is Macbarbara Amaechi, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I utilize a philosophy that is based on holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to managing and treating all types of mental illness. I will help identify the approach that will balance your mind while utilizing Evidenced based practice. I am open-minded and my goal is to build therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique an individualized patient care
(509) 563-7267 View (509) 563-7267
Photo of Tshaun Grant, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tshaun Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about treatment, and I want each client to have a memorable experience. I am diligent in making sure each patient is treated equally and receives optimum care within a safe space.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about treatment, and I want each client to have a memorable experience. I am diligent in making sure each patient is treated equally and receives optimum care within a safe space.
(509) 210-1700 View (509) 210-1700
Photo of Dr. Kate Omorotionmwan Aibangbee, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kate Omorotionmwan Aibangbee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682
Clients should expect a therapeutic environment that is safe, caring and empathetic. Deliver patient centered care. Receive insights into their experiences, advice on how to handle issues, and evidence-based treatment for mental health conditions.
Clients should expect a therapeutic environment that is safe, caring and empathetic. Deliver patient centered care. Receive insights into their experiences, advice on how to handle issues, and evidence-based treatment for mental health conditions.
(470) 688-2521 View (470) 688-2521
Photo of Kadjatou Niangadou, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kadjatou Niangadou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Kadjatou Niangadou has over 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible. Kadjatou strives to always find the best evidence-based mental health treatment options for her patients to improve their mental health. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible.
Kadjatou Niangadou has over 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible. Kadjatou strives to always find the best evidence-based mental health treatment options for her patients to improve their mental health. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible.
(509) 384-3566 View (509) 384-3566
Photo of Kemi Fawehinmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kemi Fawehinmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. I use a holistic approach to provide care to my clients and I create a conducive, empathetic environment for them.
(509) 472-4525 View (509) 472-4525
Photo of Mason Spong, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Mason Spong
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
(360) 226-7652 View (360) 226-7652
Photo of Francis Manga, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francis Manga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
Every mental health patient and their family are different in their unique ways. My goal is to create a special individualized treatment plan to help every one of my patients achieve the best possible outcome. As a patient, you can rest assured that you will get my undivided attention, you will be cared for with a professional attitude. You will be given adequate time to talk about your symptoms without any rush. While you will enjoy a non-judgmental environment and encounter during each visit, I must trust that you will honestly share with me your symptoms to enable me to create the best possible treatment plan.
Every mental health patient and their family are different in their unique ways. My goal is to create a special individualized treatment plan to help every one of my patients achieve the best possible outcome. As a patient, you can rest assured that you will get my undivided attention, you will be cared for with a professional attitude. You will be given adequate time to talk about your symptoms without any rush. While you will enjoy a non-judgmental environment and encounter during each visit, I must trust that you will honestly share with me your symptoms to enable me to create the best possible treatment plan.
(509) 223-7110 View (509) 223-7110
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(509) 722-8390 View (509) 722-8390
Photo of Jason Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jason Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Hello, my name is Dr. Jason Johnson, DNP. With expertise in psychiatry, men's health, addiction, and weight loss, I take a comprehensive and personalized approach to healthcare. My method integrates therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormone treatments to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being. In providing mental healthcare, my approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on integrating various treatment modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. I utilize a combination of therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormones to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jason Johnson, DNP. With expertise in psychiatry, men's health, addiction, and weight loss, I take a comprehensive and personalized approach to healthcare. My method integrates therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormone treatments to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being. In providing mental healthcare, my approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on integrating various treatment modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. I utilize a combination of therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormones to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
(509) 563-7030 View (509) 563-7030
Photo of Cassandra Thomas Jingles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Thomas Jingles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Cassandra Thomas-Jingles Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC I am a native of Louisiana, and a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have training and experience in treating patients with psychiatric and medical disorders across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Southern University A & M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a Postmaster of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from McNeese State University.
Cassandra Thomas-Jingles Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC I am a native of Louisiana, and a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have training and experience in treating patients with psychiatric and medical disorders across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Southern University A & M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a Postmaster of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from McNeese State University.
(509) 794-3052 View (509) 794-3052
Photo of Audry Gorman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Audry Gorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
(509) 512-0539 View (509) 512-0539
Photo of Uloma Ugbaja, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uloma Ugbaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Uloma! My name is Uloma Ugbaja and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with patients across the lifespan. I offer talk therapy and medication management for anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, and much more. I create an environment that helps establish a therapeutic patient-provider relationship. My approach to care is specific and based on the needs of the patients. I most frequently use Medication Management and Talk therapy. Both approaches help patients who are struggling with their mental health and enable support for mental wellness goals.
Hello, I'm Uloma! My name is Uloma Ugbaja and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with patients across the lifespan. I offer talk therapy and medication management for anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, and much more. I create an environment that helps establish a therapeutic patient-provider relationship. My approach to care is specific and based on the needs of the patients. I most frequently use Medication Management and Talk therapy. Both approaches help patients who are struggling with their mental health and enable support for mental wellness goals.
(509) 471-9667 View (509) 471-9667
Photo of Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Miguel De La Mora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a University of Texas-trained board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. During his time in Houston, TX completing his Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree he completed clinical rotations at UTHealth Houston Harris County Psychiatric Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, Psychiatry of Texas, Synapse Psychiatry and Turning Point Psychiatry. He completed his doctoral research project on post-stroke depression and post-stroke anxiety.
Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a University of Texas-trained board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. During his time in Houston, TX completing his Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree he completed clinical rotations at UTHealth Houston Harris County Psychiatric Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, Psychiatry of Texas, Synapse Psychiatry and Turning Point Psychiatry. He completed his doctoral research project on post-stroke depression and post-stroke anxiety.
(425) 475-3786 View (425) 475-3786
Photo of Jashunta Carson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jashunta Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
JaShunta “Jai” Carson Is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In addition to her clinical experience, Ms. Carson’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, a Master’s of Science in Environmental Science and Rural Occupational Health from the University of Alabama, as well as second Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and finally a second Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
JaShunta “Jai” Carson Is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In addition to her clinical experience, Ms. Carson’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, a Master’s of Science in Environmental Science and Rural Occupational Health from the University of Alabama, as well as second Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and finally a second Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
(509) 210-4449 View (509) 210-4449
Photo of Daniel Okoro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients, and is able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions. Nees to approach the patient with compassion and assure that you will provide personalized care because each patient is unique
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients, and is able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions. Nees to approach the patient with compassion and assure that you will provide personalized care because each patient is unique
(509) 479-7263 View (509) 479-7263
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98682

40+

Average cost per session

$220

Psychiatrists in 98682 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
98% Anxiety
84% ADHD
81% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Sleep or Insomnia
60% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 98682 see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98682?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.