Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and other mental health needs.
Dani Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy for patients living in Oregon and New Mexico. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy for patients living in Oregon and New Mexico. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
Mindful Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Chelsia Burkes-Brown, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
Hello! My name is Chelsia Burkes-Brown, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
Patients come to me with a variety of different issues, from addiction to depression, anxiety to ADHD, and many others. My initial goal is to listen to your current circumstances carefully and then discuss multiple treatment options. These options usually include gold-standard treatments like talk therapy and medications, but may also include newer treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or ketamine. Together, we will explore all of these different options and create a treatment plan together that reflects your goals and preferences.
Patients come to me with a variety of different issues, from addiction to depression, anxiety to ADHD, and many others. My initial goal is to listen to your current circumstances carefully and then discuss multiple treatment options. These options usually include gold-standard treatments like talk therapy and medications, but may also include newer treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or ketamine. Together, we will explore all of these different options and create a treatment plan together that reflects your goals and preferences.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
Opus Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225 (Online Only)
Our ideal client may face anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders. They need understanding, personalized care, and effective strategies. Their goals include achieving mental harmony, personal growth, resilience, and enriched relationships. They seek a better quality of life, tools to manage emotions, and the ability to thrive through life's challenges. Our client understands that mental health is integral to overall well-being and desires to take proactive steps in crafting a life that resonates with fulfillment and purpose.
Our ideal client may face anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders. They need understanding, personalized care, and effective strategies. Their goals include achieving mental harmony, personal growth, resilience, and enriched relationships. They seek a better quality of life, tools to manage emotions, and the ability to thrive through life's challenges. Our client understands that mental health is integral to overall well-being and desires to take proactive steps in crafting a life that resonates with fulfillment and purpose.
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.
Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Willamette Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
I seek to create an opportunity for real change through both reflection and action. My belief is that each person has a unique story that deserves attention, and I am committed to listening. Approaching discussions in a relaxed and practical way, I have seen many positive shifts in people. Let's make decisions together – I want you to feel well-informed and actively engaged in your care.
I seek to create an opportunity for real change through both reflection and action. My belief is that each person has a unique story that deserves attention, and I am committed to listening. Approaching discussions in a relaxed and practical way, I have seen many positive shifts in people. Let's make decisions together – I want you to feel well-informed and actively engaged in your care.
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Crabtree Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
Sara Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221 (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?
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
Autumn Robertson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients. I am in network with OHP, and I will be adding on additional insurance plans in the coming months. You deserve a compassionate and skilled ally on your healing journey! I take a holistic approach that incorporates the use of medication, psychotherapy, and mindfulness to get your results and have you feeling your best.
I am currently accepting new patients. I am in network with OHP, and I will be adding on additional insurance plans in the coming months. You deserve a compassionate and skilled ally on your healing journey! I take a holistic approach that incorporates the use of medication, psychotherapy, and mindfulness to get your results and have you feeling your best.
Andrea Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community". I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community". I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Oregon. I have 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 disorders (including C-PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Oregon. I have 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 disorders (including C-PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a psychoanalytic psychotherapist offering help to those struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma or relational issues. I find I can help patients by identifying some of the causes of their suffering. We can then work on these issues through therapy, use of medication if necessary, as well as by learning the resources the patient has within and by learning how they can best get support.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a psychoanalytic psychotherapist offering help to those struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma or relational issues. I find I can help patients by identifying some of the causes of their suffering. We can then work on these issues through therapy, use of medication if necessary, as well as by learning the resources the patient has within and by learning how they can best get support.
Dr. Lily Haboush (Mindpeace Mental Health Llc)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Each person approaches mental health from a different place and perspective, and my goal is to always meet you in a way that feels encouraging and motivating to you. The care I offer blends Western psychiatric medications to balance brain chemicals with therapeutic counseling, herbal and supplemental support, and hormone/physiological testing as needed. My unique background in Naturopathic & Chinese medicine, as well as emergency & family practice, means that we can dive deeply into your holistic health picture. Together, we will discover what treatment tools would best help you and bring you peace of mind.
Each person approaches mental health from a different place and perspective, and my goal is to always meet you in a way that feels encouraging and motivating to you. The care I offer blends Western psychiatric medications to balance brain chemicals with therapeutic counseling, herbal and supplemental support, and hormone/physiological testing as needed. My unique background in Naturopathic & Chinese medicine, as well as emergency & family practice, means that we can dive deeply into your holistic health picture. Together, we will discover what treatment tools would best help you and bring you peace of mind.
See more therapy options for Portland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
400+
Average cost per session
$247
Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
81% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
76% | Aetna |
69% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
25% | 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.