Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
![Photo of Tim Hanson, MA, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d3bb38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
![Photo of Jean Sterry, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d50b8c1-680e-4995-a7c8-5149fe352526/2/320x400.jpeg)
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
![Photo of Schuyler B Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df3a56f9-a5f6-41cd-9fce-53beadc0465d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Schuyler B Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
![Photo of Heather Hemmeger, PharmD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/516bb9f3-dae0-4bb5-8760-043311e6d569/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or other emotional distress? Are you feeling frustrated that things you've tried so far haven't worked? Lets work together to change that! As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I strategically blend elements of both together to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence based research. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or other emotional distress? Are you feeling frustrated that things you've tried so far haven't worked? Lets work together to change that! As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I strategically blend elements of both together to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence based research. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
![Photo of Kristen Helms, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf46fda8-f46f-400b-8030-11dc3697169d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. My practice is patient centered, holistic and empathetic. I understand that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and I am prepared to start this journey of healing with you. My main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD and mood disorders,
Accepting new patients. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. My practice is patient centered, holistic and empathetic. I understand that mental illness can permeate many areas of life and I am prepared to start this journey of healing with you. My main focus is anxiety, depression, PTSD and mood disorders,
![Photo of Andrew James Hughes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/930cf96d-9c8d-44f1-939d-5f1bb7011382/4/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew James Hughes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
![Photo of Pia Quimson-Guevarra - Quimson Behavioral Health: Dr Pia Quimson-Guevarra, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3df2765-d851-4544-a561-4f1650de8b2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Quimson Behavioral Health: Dr Pia Quimson-Guevarra
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to get better? I am a board-certified psychiatrist (medical doctor) who partners with patients using a personalized treatment approach which can include medications, education, and talk therapy. While I treat a variety of mental health conditions, I specialize in helping those with anxiety and depression to get to a better place. I also help others explore the impact of society, culture, and relationships on their mental health. I am a BIPOC/AAPI/Asian provider and identify as Filipina-American.
Are you ready to get better? I am a board-certified psychiatrist (medical doctor) who partners with patients using a personalized treatment approach which can include medications, education, and talk therapy. While I treat a variety of mental health conditions, I specialize in helping those with anxiety and depression to get to a better place. I also help others explore the impact of society, culture, and relationships on their mental health. I am a BIPOC/AAPI/Asian provider and identify as Filipina-American.
![Photo of Jen Miller Clarity Health, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3bbbeb8-c898-4b91-9c59-532abd9adfce/3/320x400.png)
Jen Miller Clarity Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Wondering if genetics, gut health or hormones are impacting your mental health? We explore these areas and the impact on ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Social Anxiety, and Public Speaking struggles. We are certified in psychiatry and use evidence-based-medicine, genetics and a functional lens to understand of how inflammation, nutrition, genetics, gut health, hormones and stress impact physical and mental health. Please visit www.clarityhealthnow.com to discover if it is the right fit for us both! We offer evening & weekend availability for busy professionals and students.
Wondering if genetics, gut health or hormones are impacting your mental health? We explore these areas and the impact on ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Social Anxiety, and Public Speaking struggles. We are certified in psychiatry and use evidence-based-medicine, genetics and a functional lens to understand of how inflammation, nutrition, genetics, gut health, hormones and stress impact physical and mental health. Please visit www.clarityhealthnow.com to discover if it is the right fit for us both! We offer evening & weekend availability for busy professionals and students.
![Photo of Lindsay Ann Howard - Headlight / Portland, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/120254ad-b841-4859-a406-bba2f1015cf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
![Photo of Mary E. Theodore - Mary E Theodore, MD, MPH, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf6a6fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
![Photo of Kelli L Holloway, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e792e14-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
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![Photo of Michelle J Roberts, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec39273-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle J Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
![Photo of Sophia Kuo - Pacific Northwest Health, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b620d3b4-b72c-4f2a-85c4-6772f365b447/3/320x400.jpeg)
Covid-19 has challenged many basic expectations about how the world functions, and how we live in it. During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
Covid-19 has challenged many basic expectations about how the world functions, and how we live in it. During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
![Photo of Sana Goldberg, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae806def-0be3-484c-a738-86b3eb17271a/1/320x400.png)
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
![Photo of Tallon Reeder Lamoreaux, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4eb4644-3f3a-41b5-aae5-d6f481c2ac89/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tallon Reeder Lamoreaux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living and working in Portland, Oregon. I have a professional background working in various mental health settings including both acute and residential inpatient treatment, addiction and recovery, youth behavioral health and general outpatient psychiatry. My primary area of specialty is the treatment of mood, anxiety, trauma, ADHD and sleep disorders in adults ages 18-65. I enjoy getting to know and understand my patients and their individual needs. I am willing to meet you where you are at and collaborate on a plan to help you with your mental health goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living and working in Portland, Oregon. I have a professional background working in various mental health settings including both acute and residential inpatient treatment, addiction and recovery, youth behavioral health and general outpatient psychiatry. My primary area of specialty is the treatment of mood, anxiety, trauma, ADHD and sleep disorders in adults ages 18-65. I enjoy getting to know and understand my patients and their individual needs. I am willing to meet you where you are at and collaborate on a plan to help you with your mental health goals.
![Photo of Carl Glissmeyer, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de7f6ae6-d660-4158-b2a4-055cee2ce0cf/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Naomi Suhler, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c123cec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
![Photo of Kelly Yan, MN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c4a98c7-e10f-4cf1-90c5-5e4d649dd0be/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Yan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205 (Online Only)
I support mental wellness through medication management and behavioral health counseling. I work in partnership with you, your therapist, and other members of your care team to manage concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychosis, inattention, and neurodivergence. My treatment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practice and holistic, patient-centered care. I believe in using the gentlest interventions that will achieve your goals. I do not perform ADHD assessments, but I can provide ongoing ADHD treatment. I do not prescribe benzodiazepines long-term.
I support mental wellness through medication management and behavioral health counseling. I work in partnership with you, your therapist, and other members of your care team to manage concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychosis, inattention, and neurodivergence. My treatment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practice and holistic, patient-centered care. I believe in using the gentlest interventions that will achieve your goals. I do not perform ADHD assessments, but I can provide ongoing ADHD treatment. I do not prescribe benzodiazepines long-term.
![Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aef9706-779b-460f-ac52-e7c1993ffc3b/4/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
![Photo of Marisa Bell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e61a32c0-ab10-457e-8486-26589dddbeee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
See more therapy options for Portland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
400+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
81% | Medication Management |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | Aetna |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.