Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA
![Photo of Gabriel Taylor-Parsons - Neupathway (Gabriel Taylor-Parsons), MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05ccc76e-add0-4915-a4bd-9beea8a2aee1/2/320x400.png)
Neupathway (Gabriel Taylor-Parsons)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! SAME WEEK AVAILABILITY! ..................UPDATED WEEKLY! SELF-SCHEDULING .................... My name is Gabriel Parsons, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who focuses on the combination of medication management and psychotherapy in treating patients who are suffering from ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Attacks, and other mental health disorders.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! SAME WEEK AVAILABILITY! ..................UPDATED WEEKLY! SELF-SCHEDULING .................... My name is Gabriel Parsons, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who focuses on the combination of medication management and psychotherapy in treating patients who are suffering from ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Attacks, and other mental health disorders.
![Photo of Kassandra Ransom, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa5fcc93-291c-44f2-bb82-ebf0f90af6b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I often hear from people, “I wish I could get my brain to work the way I want.” or “I have 58 browser tabs open in my brain all the time!” or “I get so frustrated with myself because I can’t get the things done I want to do!” If any of these statements sound like you, you are certainly not alone. Many clients make appointments with me wondering about ADHD. That is often one possibility, and with further discussion and exploration of symptoms, we can come to a diagnosis together. I am licensed in OR & WA and I am now accepting new patients ages 16-60yo for medication management visits in-office in Vancouver, WA., or via telehealth.
I often hear from people, “I wish I could get my brain to work the way I want.” or “I have 58 browser tabs open in my brain all the time!” or “I get so frustrated with myself because I can’t get the things done I want to do!” If any of these statements sound like you, you are certainly not alone. Many clients make appointments with me wondering about ADHD. That is often one possibility, and with further discussion and exploration of symptoms, we can come to a diagnosis together. I am licensed in OR & WA and I am now accepting new patients ages 16-60yo for medication management visits in-office in Vancouver, WA., or via telehealth.
![Photo of Tate J. Lander, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb54c2bd-881c-45f5-94a1-c5d218488b76/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tate J. Lander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
Accepting new clients! I am the owner of Ally Mental Health. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I appreciate the courage and strength that it takes to ask for help. I celebrate your bravery! I have a very patient centered approach and enjoy partnering with my clients. Prior to getting my specialty in psychiatric mental health, I had thirteen years experience as a family nurse practitioner specializing in emergency medicine and urgent care.
Accepting new clients! I am the owner of Ally Mental Health. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I appreciate the courage and strength that it takes to ask for help. I celebrate your bravery! I have a very patient centered approach and enjoy partnering with my clients. Prior to getting my specialty in psychiatric mental health, I had thirteen years experience as a family nurse practitioner specializing in emergency medicine and urgent care.
![Photo of Lauren Welner, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad963222-509d-4e8c-b7d1-1e4b4da00367/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Welner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685
I specialize in providing both medication management and psychotherapy to adult individuals during their times of greatest vulnerability, to assist with facilitating mental wellness and improved quality of life. My therapeutic process is guided by encouraging self-empowerment and autonomy, alongside with providing patient education to assist in informed decision making. I strive to provide a holistic approach with my clients, taking into consideration the unique elements in their life that are barriers and strengths to improving their mental health. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds.
I specialize in providing both medication management and psychotherapy to adult individuals during their times of greatest vulnerability, to assist with facilitating mental wellness and improved quality of life. My therapeutic process is guided by encouraging self-empowerment and autonomy, alongside with providing patient education to assist in informed decision making. I strive to provide a holistic approach with my clients, taking into consideration the unique elements in their life that are barriers and strengths to improving their mental health. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds.
![Photo of Daniel Roa, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b85321-f90e-4cb7-907d-a9928c561fd4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Roa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98686
Immediate appointments available! With over two decades of dedicated service in healthcare, I am striving to be a beacon of empathy and expertise in the field of mental health. I’m committed to patient-centered and personalized care. This has shaped a career focused on understanding the unique needs of each individual. I approach patient care with a genuine desire to listen. With a deep understanding of psychiatric struggles and the benefit of care, my patients receive a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan, ensuring that each patient's journey is supported fully.
Immediate appointments available! With over two decades of dedicated service in healthcare, I am striving to be a beacon of empathy and expertise in the field of mental health. I’m committed to patient-centered and personalized care. This has shaped a career focused on understanding the unique needs of each individual. I approach patient care with a genuine desire to listen. With a deep understanding of psychiatric struggles and the benefit of care, my patients receive a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan, ensuring that each patient's journey is supported fully.
![Photo of Shantel Escobar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4b5d3d2-0716-4a3e-8706-c288b3758f20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shantel Escobar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661 (Online Only)
Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Joseph Hubbard - Affinity Health Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb04f15-bddd-475f-85fd-e54d478bf17e/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hubbard struggled as a child, at home/school. He was diagnosed with dyslexia, severe depression/anxiety very early in life. He went through a very dark period which led him to places he never wanted to go. He turned his life around just prior to his 21st birthday. He started taking classes at community college and later completed a BS honors degree in Biochemistry. He then went on to Medical School, Internship and Residency. He worked in an Urgent Care setting until 2017 when he became the Medical Director at Columbia River Mental Health Services. "This experience changed my life and now focus on Mental Health and Addiction."
Dr. Hubbard struggled as a child, at home/school. He was diagnosed with dyslexia, severe depression/anxiety very early in life. He went through a very dark period which led him to places he never wanted to go. He turned his life around just prior to his 21st birthday. He started taking classes at community college and later completed a BS honors degree in Biochemistry. He then went on to Medical School, Internship and Residency. He worked in an Urgent Care setting until 2017 when he became the Medical Director at Columbia River Mental Health Services. "This experience changed my life and now focus on Mental Health and Addiction."
![Photo of Davonna (Dee) Wilson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9afad59-e521-435e-8c09-81f64c8e0926/1/320x400.png)
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Embarking on the journey of seeking support takes immense courage, and I appreciate the strength it takes to reach out. As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate therapeutic support and Medication Management for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and more. Specializing in adults, children, and teenagers, my integrative approach unravels persistent patterns, empowering you to confront life's challenges with resilience. Let's collaboratively navigate your journey towards healing and growth.
Embarking on the journey of seeking support takes immense courage, and I appreciate the strength it takes to reach out. As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate therapeutic support and Medication Management for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and more. Specializing in adults, children, and teenagers, my integrative approach unravels persistent patterns, empowering you to confront life's challenges with resilience. Let's collaboratively navigate your journey towards healing and growth.
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f204c30-1002-4c70-a1be-e218192ebffa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
![Photo of Dorothy Chadika Burrell, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4b9abc-78d7-4062-8479-fdbee926b62b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dorothy Chadika Burrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
My name is Dorothy Burrell, and I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry and family medicine. South University awarded me a Master of Science in Nursing with honors and a family medicine specialty. I completed my post-master certificate in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Norwich University. I hold national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am currently licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington.
My name is Dorothy Burrell, and I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry and family medicine. South University awarded me a Master of Science in Nursing with honors and a family medicine specialty. I completed my post-master certificate in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Norwich University. I hold national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am currently licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington.
![Photo of Benjamin Huckett, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a77bd23-abb3-47d6-91dc-bf4698b6e46f/3/320x400.jpeg)
I see patients with a wide range of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and more. I enjoy working with clients who have a history of treatment resistance or failure.
I see patients with a wide range of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and more. I enjoy working with clients who have a history of treatment resistance or failure.
15 Second Videos
Shantel Escobar
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Leah Haddad
John Benson
Jack Mkroyan
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Adam Ellis
Jonathan Allotey
Blissz Psychiatry &Healthcare LLC
Nancy Masters
Abebe Belete
Redempta Mwikya
Daniel Okoro
Macbarbara Amaechi
Jabari Dobson
Kadjatou Niangadou
Keyna Omenukor
Jason Johnson
Jashunta Carson
Tshaun Grant
Bahattin Ergin
Audry Gorman
Sussana Howard
Shola Adewunmi
Kemi Fawehinmi
Dominique Sanders
Cassandra Thomas Jingles
Balance Psychiatric Services
Zachary Gilliam
Martha McCool
Uloma Ugbaja
Felicia Turner, APRN | Psychiatry On Demand
Jade Goodloe
Jennifer Foresman
Steven K Elrod
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Katharine Frissora
Youwen Hu
![Photo of Tammy Johnson, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/718ad338-a01f-488d-9124-74e8f13c18b3/1/320x400.png)
Tammy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Tammy is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD and bipolar disorder. She takes a holistic approach to mental health care that considers the whole person, including their cultural background and lived experiences.
Tammy is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD and bipolar disorder. She takes a holistic approach to mental health care that considers the whole person, including their cultural background and lived experiences.
![Photo of Ed Kauffman, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcef4a28-7e6f-45fd-b763-54f2e982cc53/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many people are having a hard time getting in to see a provider who is available, without exorbitant prices, and has the time for their patients. Our price is only $89/month and that includes any follow up appointments as well as text / phone calls. All direct with your provider. No middle men involved.
Many people are having a hard time getting in to see a provider who is available, without exorbitant prices, and has the time for their patients. Our price is only $89/month and that includes any follow up appointments as well as text / phone calls. All direct with your provider. No middle men involved.
![Photo of John Benson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84432685-abee-4d28-8577-af79147fd9ae/1/320x400.png)
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
![Photo of Deb Kiehlmeier, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2abc4c54-14a9-4e79-b106-183709bfa2eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Washington. I do have some in-person availability for those local to Portland. I have experience diagnosing and treating all mental health disorders, but focus primarily on ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety (including PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Washington. I do have some in-person availability for those local to Portland. I have experience diagnosing and treating all mental health disorders, but focus primarily on ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety (including PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
![Photo of Piper Buersmeyer - Med Rx Partners, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c3a74c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Med Rx Partners
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662 (Online Only)
Appointments available in 1 week. Open in both Vancouver, WA and Tigard, OR. Med Rx Partners provides direct access to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners for medication management for nearly all conditions. Serving the community for 14+ years with 9 providers who all collaborate to provide you the best care possible. Our admin team and providers rapidly respond through our phone/text platform so you will always feel supported and taken care of.
Appointments available in 1 week. Open in both Vancouver, WA and Tigard, OR. Med Rx Partners provides direct access to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners for medication management for nearly all conditions. Serving the community for 14+ years with 9 providers who all collaborate to provide you the best care possible. Our admin team and providers rapidly respond through our phone/text platform so you will always feel supported and taken care of.
![Photo of Karen Suzanne McNulty, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7c2ccf5-0657-4779-90b0-1ec587cfcb33/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef5cc108-cd6d-460f-941f-1da2b5f529bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
![Photo of Cailin Jarrell, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfac5da3-813e-4451-947e-aca439c88276/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cailin Jarrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Cailin is an ANCC Board-Certfied Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner specializing in medication management for adolescents and adults. Cailin has a rich background in healthcare, as she is also an ANCC Board Certfied Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in reproductive health and gender affirming healthcare.
Cailin is an ANCC Board-Certfied Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner specializing in medication management for adolescents and adults. Cailin has a rich background in healthcare, as she is also an ANCC Board Certfied Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in reproductive health and gender affirming healthcare.
![Photo of Krysta Snyder, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac8a455d-dca9-49b3-8df9-ba63b01e4b7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krysta Snyder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98686 (Online Only)
Immediate Availability, No Waitlist, Online Booking! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to empower individuals to overcome mental health challenges. With over 15 years of nursing experience, I have seen the profound impact of comprehensive mental health treatment. I take a holistic approach, collaborating with clients and their support systems to develop tailored treatment plan. My goal is to empower individuals to overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. I am passionate about making a positive difference in my patients' lives and contributing to greater acceptance of mental health issues.
Immediate Availability, No Waitlist, Online Booking! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to empower individuals to overcome mental health challenges. With over 15 years of nursing experience, I have seen the profound impact of comprehensive mental health treatment. I take a holistic approach, collaborating with clients and their support systems to develop tailored treatment plan. My goal is to empower individuals to overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. I am passionate about making a positive difference in my patients' lives and contributing to greater acceptance of mental health issues.
See more therapy options for Vancouver
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Vancouver?
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.