Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Tara O'Connor, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
(503) 221-5778 View (503) 221-5778
Photo of Kristine Simpson, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristine Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
(503) 751-3901 View (503) 751-3901
Photo of Kathleen Johnson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
(971) 299-7633 View (971) 299-7633
Photo of Shinichi Daimyo, MSN, MPH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shinichi Daimyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
(971) 299-7048 View (971) 299-7048
Photo of Lindsay Ann Howard - Headlight / Portland, Psychiatrist
Headlight / Portland
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
(971) 290-1964 View (971) 290-1964
Photo of Willamette Health Wellness - Willamette Health & Wellness, PMHNP, MSN, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse
Willamette Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(503) 444-8729 View (503) 444-8729
Photo of Megan Langworthy, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Langworthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
(503) 563-8979 View (503) 563-8979
Photo of Ellen Barker-Anderson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ellen Barker-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
(503) 564-7438 View (503) 564-7438
Photo of Maria Dotsey, CRNP-PM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Dotsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-PM
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of mental health experience working with adolescents/adults and my skills and experience allows me to assist you in setting appropriate life goals and defining strategies to accomplish those goals. There is no set approach for mental health care. Every patient is unique and will be treated as such. I will customize your experience and help you to achieve optimal health.
I have over 20 years of mental health experience working with adolescents/adults and my skills and experience allows me to assist you in setting appropriate life goals and defining strategies to accomplish those goals. There is no set approach for mental health care. Every patient is unique and will be treated as such. I will customize your experience and help you to achieve optimal health.
(503) 564-7871 View (503) 564-7871
Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(971) 298-8186 View (971) 298-8186
Photo of Brent Frazee, MD, Psychiatrist
Brent Frazee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
(503) 342-7723 View (503) 342-7723
Photo of Patricia Lawrence - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
Patricia specializes in individualizing care to your needs and have over 36 years of health care experience in multiple specialties. She is passionate about helping people achieve an exceptional life by teaching them how to apply both nonpharmacological skills and best practices for utilizing psychiatric medications. She uses an eclectic variety of methods that empower personal growth, bring back the strength needed to meet the demands in our lives, move people away from suffering and towards a higher level of wellbeing.
(971) 314-6627 View (971) 314-6627
Photo of Erik Lee, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erik Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Are you ready to begin (or continue) your journey to outstanding mental health? The judicious use of medications can sometimes be the key to sustained and improved mental health. If medication has helped in the past; if you feel you have exhausted other approaches; or even if you have an aversion to prescribed medications, my expertise can help. I provide clinical services (including telemedicine) to patients who have (or suspect they have) ADHD; and/or who struggle with mood, anxiety, or trauma-related issues. I also assist clients taper off medications safely, where previous attempts to do so may have proved challenging.
Are you ready to begin (or continue) your journey to outstanding mental health? The judicious use of medications can sometimes be the key to sustained and improved mental health. If medication has helped in the past; if you feel you have exhausted other approaches; or even if you have an aversion to prescribed medications, my expertise can help. I provide clinical services (including telemedicine) to patients who have (or suspect they have) ADHD; and/or who struggle with mood, anxiety, or trauma-related issues. I also assist clients taper off medications safely, where previous attempts to do so may have proved challenging.
(503) 868-2632 View (503) 868-2632
Photo of Lauren Kaplan, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Kaplan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that healing occurs in the context of supportive relationships with self, with other people, and with aspects of the natural world beyond people. My passion is collaborative exploration of these core relationships to help empower youth in creating their own path toward increasing wellness. It takes great strength to ask for help and it can be challenging to find someone who feels safe enough to be vulnerable with. Providing you or your child with a safe, supportive, affirming space to go beyond symptom management and explore the root causes of your challenging experiences is an honor.
I believe that healing occurs in the context of supportive relationships with self, with other people, and with aspects of the natural world beyond people. My passion is collaborative exploration of these core relationships to help empower youth in creating their own path toward increasing wellness. It takes great strength to ask for help and it can be challenging to find someone who feels safe enough to be vulnerable with. Providing you or your child with a safe, supportive, affirming space to go beyond symptom management and explore the root causes of your challenging experiences is an honor.
(503) 994-1387 View (503) 994-1387
Photo of Philip Cawkwell, MD, Psychiatrist
Philip Cawkwell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
View
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 Steven Knott - Light Side Wellness Co , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Light Side Wellness Co
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
(503) 994-1898 View (503) 994-1898
Photo of Lauren Merrell, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Merrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I treat clients who are seeking both talk therapy and medication management. When clients receive therapy and medication management from the same provider, I find that this leads to better outcomes, less medication, and greater satisfaction in care. In our first few sessions, I'll listen to you intently and then we'll determine a path forward. Most of my clients start to feel better within a few months.
I treat clients who are seeking both talk therapy and medication management. When clients receive therapy and medication management from the same provider, I find that this leads to better outcomes, less medication, and greater satisfaction in care. In our first few sessions, I'll listen to you intently and then we'll determine a path forward. Most of my clients start to feel better within a few months.
(971) 318-1721 View (971) 318-1721
Photo of Heike Sommer, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heike Sommer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
(503) 334-0750 View (503) 334-0750
Photo of Dr. Dominique Wilson, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dominique Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Accepting new Clients in OR & TX! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Dominique is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Accepting new Clients in OR & TX! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Dominique is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(855) 704-2004 View (855) 704-2004

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
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
73% 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.