Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
![Photo of Lauren Larsen - Larsen Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be1c703c-c4a9-4051-baa0-7b3c8d4ed7b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larsen Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97293 (Online Only)
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
![Photo of Linda Bett - Healthcore Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31a4503e-4fa5-4736-8527-ba6b477e7f52/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healthcore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
![Photo of Carmen Kosicek, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0da502c-07ac-44cb-9736-d8ae7d588ce4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carmen Kosicek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
![Photo of Rachel Scott, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e1260a3-e042-4c39-a437-eb0a728515b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225 (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
![Photo of Kelly Witbeck, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d2c57b-2ca2-48a6-8ab9-f40a4c08261b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Witbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
![Photo of Jake Alan Freeman - Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7ab8eab-1a57-4bd5-8a4c-1f930dac62f1/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jonathan Murphy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9330db4b-4451-4b92-b689-a40c4f53b940/1/320x400.png)
Jonathan Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
![Photo of Shannon LaDouce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548301be-4be4-4553-b150-f81e01f034b5/3/320x400.png)
Shannon LaDouce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97218 (Online Only)
SUMMER 2024- OPEN. Request appointment at www.upwellpsych.com I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - the folks who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing the pressures of the field, a mom juggling the demands of parenthood, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
SUMMER 2024- OPEN. Request appointment at www.upwellpsych.com I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - the folks who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing the pressures of the field, a mom juggling the demands of parenthood, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
![Photo of Ember Moore, PMHNP, AGACNP, ACHPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d734e432-e6df-49a5-a5b8-ce1f25411a74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ember Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP, ACHPN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
I think most of us are all looking for ways to grow and heal in big and small ways. Often living at our desired wellness can be challenged by loss, grief, trauma or our genetics. I understand that you want more wellness because you are here now, looking for support. This bit of strength that you have or the strength of a loved one who is helping you find support is a strength to be built upon. Depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum, PTSD or prolonged grief, coping with serious illness or dying and ADHD are common in making life difficult to live. I would like to support those looking for help with these.
I think most of us are all looking for ways to grow and heal in big and small ways. Often living at our desired wellness can be challenged by loss, grief, trauma or our genetics. I understand that you want more wellness because you are here now, looking for support. This bit of strength that you have or the strength of a loved one who is helping you find support is a strength to be built upon. Depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum, PTSD or prolonged grief, coping with serious illness or dying and ADHD are common in making life difficult to live. I would like to support those looking for help with these.
![Photo of Mohamed Bah, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87a4bf3e-cdc9-472c-8d21-b67eda2a291b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mohamed Bah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
![Photo of Morgan Huls, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb27ddf1-e785-4493-85ab-50309fe73d74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Huls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
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Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
![Photo of Hadi Farah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0f8c629-c182-4a8e-8aeb-c65053e01e2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist with a particular focus on psychotherapy. I use different modalities including, psychodynamic psychotherapy, behavioral, and family systems. Whenever possible, I prioritize non-pharmacological interventions.
I'm an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist with a particular focus on psychotherapy. I use different modalities including, psychodynamic psychotherapy, behavioral, and family systems. Whenever possible, I prioritize non-pharmacological interventions.
![Photo of Nancy C Winters, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2aac88d0-0fac-419b-9b8b-d8849f8def07/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in psychoanalysis, an intensive, in-depth form of psychotherapy for people who are confronting repetitive and confusing patterns in life preventing them from living more fully. My approach involves careful listening and responsiveness to your unique mind and a sharing of your curiosity and commitment to deeper self-understanding and progressive freedom.
I specialize in psychoanalysis, an intensive, in-depth form of psychotherapy for people who are confronting repetitive and confusing patterns in life preventing them from living more fully. My approach involves careful listening and responsiveness to your unique mind and a sharing of your curiosity and commitment to deeper self-understanding and progressive freedom.
![Photo of Kristen Helms, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf46fda8-f46f-400b-8030-11dc3697169d/1/320x400.jpeg)
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,
![Photo of Kyle Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d01edc3e-0103-4414-9e18-cd9d1745a850/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life with mood disorders, PTSD, or ADHD can be overwhelming and isolating. You might feel like your emotions are out of control, past traumas haunt your daily life, or your focus and productivity are constantly slipping away. These challenges can affect your relationships, work, and overall well-being. My aim is to help you navigate these difficulties, providing a compassionate and understanding environment to foster your growth and healing.
Life with mood disorders, PTSD, or ADHD can be overwhelming and isolating. You might feel like your emotions are out of control, past traumas haunt your daily life, or your focus and productivity are constantly slipping away. These challenges can affect your relationships, work, and overall well-being. My aim is to help you navigate these difficulties, providing a compassionate and understanding environment to foster your growth and healing.
![Photo of Tim Hanson, MA, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d3bb38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
![Photo of Lacey Evans, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9932eb6-854b-4d91-8423-d340d1b8b112/2/320x400.jpeg)
Education -MCPHS University- Master's in Nursing -Mercer University- Bachelor's in Nursing -The University of Alabama- Bachelor's, Community Health Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner through ANCC
Education -MCPHS University- Master's in Nursing -Mercer University- Bachelor's in Nursing -The University of Alabama- Bachelor's, Community Health Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner through ANCC
![Photo of Steven Knott - Light Side Wellness Co , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c226c9c3-433d-4e87-9cb1-f7a50c23a660/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Donna D Templeton, PMHNP, LAC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/521b9c40-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Portland
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% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
68% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | 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 users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.