Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Elena Logvinenko, MD, Psychiatrist
Elena Logvinenko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland, specializing in integrated psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric eval & med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see at least once a week. While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (to both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment; many bodies/minds “haven’t read the textbook” and benefit most from treatment that isn’t algorithmic. (re-opening to new patients in Aug/Sept)
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland, specializing in integrated psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric eval & med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see at least once a week. While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (to both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment; many bodies/minds “haven’t read the textbook” and benefit most from treatment that isn’t algorithmic. (re-opening to new patients in Aug/Sept)
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Photo of Kristen Helms, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristen Helms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Accepting new patients. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. My practice is patient centered, holistic and empathetic. I understand that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and I am prepared to start this journey of healing with you. My main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD and mood disorders,
Accepting new patients. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. My practice is patient centered, holistic and empathetic. I understand that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and I am prepared to start this journey of healing with you. My main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD and mood disorders,
(971) 306-9240 View (971) 306-9240
Photo of Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 252-5319 View (971) 252-5319
Photo of Christina Vaughn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
(503) 755-1127 View (503) 755-1127
Photo of Cary Shore, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cary Shore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
(503) 683-8114 View (503) 683-8114
Photo of Kara Powers, MD, Psychiatrist
Kara Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
(503) 438-4503 View (503) 438-4503
Photo of Jake Alan Freeman - Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
(503) 850-2341 View (503) 850-2341
Maggie Gareau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
(503) 766-4889 View (503) 766-4889
Photo of Donna D Templeton, PMHNP, LAC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna D Templeton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Accepting New Patients! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or other emotional distress? Are you feeling frustrated and discouraged because the things you've tried so far haven't worked? Now more than ever, people are exhausted, overwhelmed and worry that life won't get better. You're not alone. I'm here to understand you and to help you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner who's worked for over 20 years, I've met a wide range of people along the way. Everyone is unique. There's no "one size fits all" approach, and together we'll find a solution that's right for you so you can achieve optimal well being and life satisfaction.
Accepting New Patients! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or other emotional distress? Are you feeling frustrated and discouraged because the things you've tried so far haven't worked? Now more than ever, people are exhausted, overwhelmed and worry that life won't get better. You're not alone. I'm here to understand you and to help you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner who's worked for over 20 years, I've met a wide range of people along the way. Everyone is unique. There's no "one size fits all" approach, and together we'll find a solution that's right for you so you can achieve optimal well being and life satisfaction.
(971) 257-1188 View (971) 257-1188
Photo of Meghan Farrell, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Meghan Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
My experience includes treating adolescents and adults in the inpatient, residential, private practice, emergency department, and outpatient settings. My approach to psychiatric and medication management services is holistic in nature. Although I offer treatment to a wide variety of mental health disorders, I specialize in psychiatric treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. When appropriate, I apply cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to medication management services.
My experience includes treating adolescents and adults in the inpatient, residential, private practice, emergency department, and outpatient settings. My approach to psychiatric and medication management services is holistic in nature. Although I offer treatment to a wide variety of mental health disorders, I specialize in psychiatric treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. When appropriate, I apply cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to medication management services.
(503) 738-1252 View (503) 738-1252
Photo of Hannah Frazee, PA, Physician Assistant
Hannah Frazee
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
(971) 206-3110 View (971) 206-3110
Photo of Ablavi Agomessou - Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
(678) 922-4240 View (678) 922-4240
Photo of James Harrison Powers, MD, Psychiatrist
James Harrison Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
I am a psychiatrist and psychotherapist with an established private practice since 2002. I specialize in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping people develop self-understanding about internal and relational dynamics which are repeated for reasons outside of consciousness. I assist clients with a variety of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, anger, parenting, and recurring self defeating behaviors.
I am a psychiatrist and psychotherapist with an established private practice since 2002. I specialize in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping people develop self-understanding about internal and relational dynamics which are repeated for reasons outside of consciousness. I assist clients with a variety of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, anger, parenting, and recurring self defeating behaviors.
(503) 564-1324 View (503) 564-1324
Photo of Dallas L Upchurch, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dallas L Upchurch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
(254) 329-8825 View (254) 329-8825
Photo of Ben Foundation Osevwe - Solid Foundation Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
At Solid Foundation Psychiatry, our ideal clients are individuals navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, seeking support to address various challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychosis. These individuals arrive seeking relief from the overwhelming weight of their conditions, each person carrying a unique set of issues, needs, and aspirations. Depression often manifests as an unrelenting cloud overshadowing daily life. Our ideal clients with depression yearn for a sense of vitality and emotional equilibrium. They desire to rediscover the joy in simple moments.
At Solid Foundation Psychiatry, our ideal clients are individuals navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, seeking support to address various challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychosis. These individuals arrive seeking relief from the overwhelming weight of their conditions, each person carrying a unique set of issues, needs, and aspirations. Depression often manifests as an unrelenting cloud overshadowing daily life. Our ideal clients with depression yearn for a sense of vitality and emotional equilibrium. They desire to rediscover the joy in simple moments.
(619) 762-3487 View (619) 762-3487
Photo of Shayna Loomis, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shayna Loomis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
While medication management plays a pivotal role in recovery, the connection, support and care from a provider is the foundation for a powerful growth process. As an experienced mental healthcare professional, I understand the benefits and challenges that can come with psychiatric medications and I know the importance of staying current with evidence.
While medication management plays a pivotal role in recovery, the connection, support and care from a provider is the foundation for a powerful growth process. As an experienced mental healthcare professional, I understand the benefits and challenges that can come with psychiatric medications and I know the importance of staying current with evidence.
(503) 594-4733 View (503) 594-4733
Photo of Robert S McKelvey, MD, DLFAPA, LFAACAP, FRANZCP, Psychiatrist
Robert S McKelvey
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, LFAACAP, FRANZCP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex cases, psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy of children, adolescents, adults, and psychopharmacology. I am especially interested in the care of persons from other cultural traditions, an outgrowth of many years of clinical and research involvement with refugees from Southeast Asia, and particularly Vietnam. Prior to entering medicine, I served as a Captain in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. It was that experience that stimulated my interest in both medicine and cross-cultural psychiatry.
Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex cases, psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy of children, adolescents, adults, and psychopharmacology. I am especially interested in the care of persons from other cultural traditions, an outgrowth of many years of clinical and research involvement with refugees from Southeast Asia, and particularly Vietnam. Prior to entering medicine, I served as a Captain in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. It was that experience that stimulated my interest in both medicine and cross-cultural psychiatry.
(971) 253-0615 View (971) 253-0615
Photo of Robert Geistwhite - Robert Geistwhite, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Geistwhite, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
(503) 828-9929 View (503) 828-9929
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Daniel Helfet-Hilliker, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Helfet-Hilliker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
(971) 264-2784 View (971) 264-2784
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

400+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
81% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
74% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

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.