Psychiatrists in Bend, OR
![Photo of Kristyn Prockish, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0eab894-1a49-4503-a609-a957787eb262/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
![Photo of Maggie Yorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6660935-8983-4a6d-8ba1-376eb32ebc5e/1/320x400.png)
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication management. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Welcome! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication management. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
![Photo of Cayley Mesterheide, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-ps, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8625b7ab-c17e-47c8-a851-0dd983e84c67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cayley Mesterheide
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-ps
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703 (Online Only)
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Jonathan W May, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da959213-14c4-4ece-a801-ce6510c4a989/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan W May
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am currently NOT accepting new clients. Do you know what you’re capable of in life but simply can’t summon the energy or the drive? I can provide hope when anxiety and ADHD make you feel “stuck". If you are easily distracted, struggling to start or complete tasks, or just can't stay organized, let’s meet and see if we can collaborate to make real improvements in your life. I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD and associated conditions such as depression and anxiety, and where appropriate I provide medication management for those conditions.
I am currently NOT accepting new clients. Do you know what you’re capable of in life but simply can’t summon the energy or the drive? I can provide hope when anxiety and ADHD make you feel “stuck". If you are easily distracted, struggling to start or complete tasks, or just can't stay organized, let’s meet and see if we can collaborate to make real improvements in your life. I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD and associated conditions such as depression and anxiety, and where appropriate I provide medication management for those conditions.
![Photo of Christa DeGrazia, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9524ddda-6bc8-49a5-9128-771f57b6774d/2/320x400.png)
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
![Photo of Jody Pauwels, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b82a704-a5a5-49ee-aa89-0d3805b4080f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jody Pauwels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702 (Online Only)
Jody is currently accepting new adult clients! Jody is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about holistic health care with over a decade of experience in her field.
Jody is currently accepting new adult clients! Jody is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about holistic health care with over a decade of experience in her field.
![Photo of Bethany Kristine Jensen - Doctor B Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3219dec3-8556-46f3-998b-4ad0be1b64db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Doctor B Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has experience working in county-based, residential, secure inpatient, and rural psychiatric settings. My clinical approach is egalitarian; collaborating with patients and their loved ones to thoroughly provide education on mental health options for patients to make decisions that are subjectively best for their healing, wholeness, and longitudinal health.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has experience working in county-based, residential, secure inpatient, and rural psychiatric settings. My clinical approach is egalitarian; collaborating with patients and their loved ones to thoroughly provide education on mental health options for patients to make decisions that are subjectively best for their healing, wholeness, and longitudinal health.
![Photo of Nw Mind-Body Wellness: Rebecca Dorsey, PMHNP, FNP, ENP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47af771e-039d-4d5d-8ead-80e385338efe/1/320x400.png)
Nw Mind-Body Wellness: Rebecca Dorsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ENP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
![Photo of Brea Di Dato, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efa59c64-f035-4bf9-b0fd-94c6b9b4a4a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brea Di Dato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Brea is currently not accepting new clients, ages 10 and up, at this time. Specializing in ADHD and much more. A comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Brea provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Brea will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Brea addressed the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Brea is currently not accepting new clients, ages 10 and up, at this time. Specializing in ADHD and much more. A comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Brea provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Brea will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Brea addressed the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
![Photo of Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0c3bfda-c74f-4eba-a4a4-019836f5c88f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, holds a Master’s in Medical Science from Midwestern University in Arizona and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Kansas. She specializes in medication management for psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with experience in novel treatments for resistant depression including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and esketamine intranasal treatments. Amanda treats most ages 13-65, but has found a passion in treating adolescents and young adults with building strong rapport and fostering a collaborative treatment environment.
Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, holds a Master’s in Medical Science from Midwestern University in Arizona and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Kansas. She specializes in medication management for psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with experience in novel treatments for resistant depression including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and esketamine intranasal treatments. Amanda treats most ages 13-65, but has found a passion in treating adolescents and young adults with building strong rapport and fostering a collaborative treatment environment.
![Photo of Lauren Brown, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed62cc9e-f507-4e20-8d11-93a267059832/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702 (Online Only)
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients in Oregon 7 and up. Virtual visits allow for you to be in the most comfortable space for you. (Not anyone else). I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management services, as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders. I have special interests in treatment of ADHD, Adult ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, as well as working together to help you heal.
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients in Oregon 7 and up. Virtual visits allow for you to be in the most comfortable space for you. (Not anyone else). I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Oregon providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management services, as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders. I have special interests in treatment of ADHD, Adult ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, as well as working together to help you heal.
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![Photo of Megan Lewis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98d47915-d279-478e-8bc1-4aef9d168413/1/320x400.png)
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
![Photo of Jordan Meier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1515c4e-7baf-47ab-ba7e-5f6ff8af470b/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, personalized care to address their unique mental health needs. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their well-being. Their goals may include regaining balance, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving lasting positive change.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, personalized care to address their unique mental health needs. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their well-being. Their goals may include regaining balance, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving lasting positive change.
![Photo of Lynae Edmonds, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8ce3bfe-bb58-4d26-b582-cf7f1a0a11b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynae Edmonds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
Currently Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working with patients across the lifespan who suffer from a variety of mental health concerns. A majority of my experience as a DNP has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
Currently Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working with patients across the lifespan who suffer from a variety of mental health concerns. A majority of my experience as a DNP has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
![Photo of Katelyn Smith, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc7ee163-8539-4bab-94bd-416c82797fa7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! If you’re facing challenges like depression or anxiety, you’re looking for a compassionate approach that understands and addresses your unique needs. You want to feel heard, supported, and to make real progress in your mental well-being. I’m here to guide you through that journey with care and dedication. I believe in collaborative care to ensure sustainable wellness.
Welcome! If you’re facing challenges like depression or anxiety, you’re looking for a compassionate approach that understands and addresses your unique needs. You want to feel heard, supported, and to make real progress in your mental well-being. I’m here to guide you through that journey with care and dedication. I believe in collaborative care to ensure sustainable wellness.
![Photo of Valerie Spear, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87e628fb-9521-48b5-95b3-46494f7ba2e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Spear
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
![Photo of Amanda Rapaport, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b05ed6b7-68ae-4af2-b410-ebe546d9dcbc/1/320x400.png)
Amanda Rapaport
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703 (Online Only)
Amanda Rapaport is dually board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
Amanda Rapaport is dually board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
![Photo of Loni Verzuh - Center & Flow Psychiatry - Loni Verzuh PMHNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d0cd2b3-6e45-4eb1-8354-0149c267bd41/2/320x400.jpeg)
Center & Flow Psychiatry - Loni Verzuh PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
My primary goal as both a provider and founder of the Center & Flow mental health collective is to gather a solid community of support around your care. I want to develop connections not only between you and behavioral professionals, but others like you in the community. By becoming an integral part of our small collective, you will be granted the space and opportunity to build new and profound relationships with peers who possess an firsthand understanding of your unique struggles and experiences.
My primary goal as both a provider and founder of the Center & Flow mental health collective is to gather a solid community of support around your care. I want to develop connections not only between you and behavioral professionals, but others like you in the community. By becoming an integral part of our small collective, you will be granted the space and opportunity to build new and profound relationships with peers who possess an firsthand understanding of your unique struggles and experiences.
![Photo of Dr. Kim Delaney, PsyD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4939f535-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Licensed Psychologist, with over 20 years experience in Mental Health, specializing in treatment of anxiety, depression, mood instability, life transitions, and interpersonal difficulties. People seek my services to ascertain the need for psychiatric medications, which can be tools for treating symptoms and furthering treatment goals, when used in conjunction with the right type of therapy and a healthy life style. I provide services for both psychotherapy and medication management, or work collaboratively with your therapist to provide medication evaluation and treatment.
I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Licensed Psychologist, with over 20 years experience in Mental Health, specializing in treatment of anxiety, depression, mood instability, life transitions, and interpersonal difficulties. People seek my services to ascertain the need for psychiatric medications, which can be tools for treating symptoms and furthering treatment goals, when used in conjunction with the right type of therapy and a healthy life style. I provide services for both psychotherapy and medication management, or work collaboratively with your therapist to provide medication evaluation and treatment.
![Photo of Stephanie Cypress - Cypress Psychiatric Care, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b808e984-93f6-466b-95dd-ce8cad44be85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cypress Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Accepting New Clients in 2024: At Cypress Psychiatric Care, we are partners in your care. You know yourself more than anyone else, and this insight will allow for efficient and effective outcomes. In my office, my goal is to create a supportive haven where you will be seen through a holistic lens, heard, and respected.
Accepting New Clients in 2024: At Cypress Psychiatric Care, we are partners in your care. You know yourself more than anyone else, and this insight will allow for efficient and effective outcomes. In my office, my goal is to create a supportive haven where you will be seen through a holistic lens, heard, and respected.
See more therapy options for Bend
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bend, OR
100+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in Bend, OR who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
68% | PacificSource |
66% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Bend, OR see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bend?
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.