Psychiatrists in Clackamas County, OR
![Photo of Bethany Jensen, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/808bbf92-7b2b-4088-a113-927cb189ddcb/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Rebecca Dorsey - NW Mind-Body Wellness - Rebecca Dorsey, PMHNP, FNP, ENP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2c108ac-7492-41a6-a824-a65cde56006e/1/320x400.png)
NW Mind-Body Wellness - Rebecca Dorsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ENP
Verified Verified
Wilsonville, OR 97070
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 Brooke Call, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72a4959c-7906-4204-aba7-0854b2776f90/2/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is focused on the initiation and management of psychiatric medications, a supportive psychotherapeutic relationship and lifestyle interventions. I treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorders and OCD. I work with clients aged 14 years and older and really enjoy supporting teens and adults as they navigate the challenges of mental health diagnoses and treatment. I want my clients to be active participants in their mental health care and will collaborate with their treatment team to ensure optimal outcomes.
My practice is focused on the initiation and management of psychiatric medications, a supportive psychotherapeutic relationship and lifestyle interventions. I treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorders and OCD. I work with clients aged 14 years and older and really enjoy supporting teens and adults as they navigate the challenges of mental health diagnoses and treatment. I want my clients to be active participants in their mental health care and will collaborate with their treatment team to ensure optimal outcomes.
![Photo of Nicholas D Morales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eca2d3ba-e4bc-4523-a7d8-36c2bc0864c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas D Morales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015 (Online Only)
Dr. Nicholas D. Morales is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nurse Practice. Dr. Morales provides psychiatric medication prescription and medication management. He has over ten years of experience in healthcare in different environments ranging from emergency room settings to home health. Many of his patients have included individuals with psychiatric and mental health issues.
Dr. Nicholas D. Morales is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nurse Practice. Dr. Morales provides psychiatric medication prescription and medication management. He has over ten years of experience in healthcare in different environments ranging from emergency room settings to home health. Many of his patients have included individuals with psychiatric and mental health issues.
![Photo of Adrienne Elyse Harmon, MN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbf83942-d60e-49b2-b9ec-eb11549a39f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Elyse Harmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I understand mental wellness or illness to be a dynamic interplay between environmental, physical, psychological, and social factors with the individual or family at the center of the healing process. I work in collaboration with children, families, and individuals to provide evidence-based individualized care to attain mental wellness and improve the quality of life. I diagnose and treat patients across the lifespan, specializing in children, adolescents, and young adults. I provide holistic care, taking into consideration the diverse elements in the patient's life that are barriers and strengths to improving mental health.
I understand mental wellness or illness to be a dynamic interplay between environmental, physical, psychological, and social factors with the individual or family at the center of the healing process. I work in collaboration with children, families, and individuals to provide evidence-based individualized care to attain mental wellness and improve the quality of life. I diagnose and treat patients across the lifespan, specializing in children, adolescents, and young adults. I provide holistic care, taking into consideration the diverse elements in the patient's life that are barriers and strengths to improving mental health.
![Photo of Keith Johnson, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/495b8f1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a prescriptive approach to emotional intelligence, grounded in authenticity and openness within a space of mutual respect. At Principle Mind, we take a personalized, principled approach to patient care. If you’re motivated and open to change, we can work together to truly improve your well-being. I use medication as a stepping stone to wellness, combined with the development of emotional intelligence and the understanding of human connection. This powerful combination can lead to lasting constructive change. I use a structured approach that emphasizes connective dynamics, emotional logic, and trauma-aware care.
I believe in a prescriptive approach to emotional intelligence, grounded in authenticity and openness within a space of mutual respect. At Principle Mind, we take a personalized, principled approach to patient care. If you’re motivated and open to change, we can work together to truly improve your well-being. I use medication as a stepping stone to wellness, combined with the development of emotional intelligence and the understanding of human connection. This powerful combination can lead to lasting constructive change. I use a structured approach that emphasizes connective dynamics, emotional logic, and trauma-aware care.
![Photo of Wendy Zamora, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9825270b-50c0-4328-bb40-ededb20394cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Zamora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I care about you as a whole person. Empathetic, nonjudgmental listening is one of my strengths. I will perform a comprehensive psychiatric assessment to help you understand what your symptoms mean and how they can be managed with psychiatric medication or lifestyle changes.
I care about you as a whole person. Empathetic, nonjudgmental listening is one of my strengths. I will perform a comprehensive psychiatric assessment to help you understand what your symptoms mean and how they can be managed with psychiatric medication or lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Pritham Raj, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/203304f2-a79b-404f-8706-f77a1bfd284c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
![Photo of Ross Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77e8d616-cfe7-45bc-8ad7-bc90024fc1e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ross A Brown is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). He holds a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he completed studies as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For fifteen years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology, then went on to complete his postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health care.
Ross A Brown is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). He holds a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he completed studies as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For fifteen years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology, then went on to complete his postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health care.
![Photo of Katy Reis - Red Clover Wellness, LLC, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44bc4405-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Red Clover Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015 (Online Only)
Appointment request can be found at: intakeq.com/new/9phqdc. Better mental health is within reach. I work in an active, collaborative way with individuals to find strategies that will reduce suffering associated with anxiety, mood problems, compulsions, chronic stress, loneliness, and other problems that affect daily living. I specialize in prescribing medication to target symptoms of psychiatric disorders, while maintaining focus on the whole person in treatment. We will discuss your overall health, self-care, relaxation practices, and finding meaning and inspiration in life, alongside evaluating your response to medications.
Appointment request can be found at: intakeq.com/new/9phqdc. Better mental health is within reach. I work in an active, collaborative way with individuals to find strategies that will reduce suffering associated with anxiety, mood problems, compulsions, chronic stress, loneliness, and other problems that affect daily living. I specialize in prescribing medication to target symptoms of psychiatric disorders, while maintaining focus on the whole person in treatment. We will discuss your overall health, self-care, relaxation practices, and finding meaning and inspiration in life, alongside evaluating your response to medications.
![Photo of Denyse Collins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec7663f1-4cba-495a-ba8d-33066fe5b731/4/320x400.jpeg)
Denyse Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEHEALTH SERVICES. You will receive a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation that may include labs to help determine the best treatment plan. Treatment can include evidence-based medication strategies, supplements, lifestyle interventions, and psychotherapy.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEHEALTH SERVICES. You will receive a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation that may include labs to help determine the best treatment plan. Treatment can include evidence-based medication strategies, supplements, lifestyle interventions, and psychotherapy.
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![Photo of Aisha Abbasi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad84c47f-18fb-4dcf-828f-ee6038112a3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it’s because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be one of America’s Best Doctors for twenty years in a row.
For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it’s because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be one of America’s Best Doctors for twenty years in a row.
![Photo of Heather L. Knott - Cognitive Care Medical Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ed2f5f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Cognitive Care Medical Group (CCMG). CCMG is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologist with the sole focus of providing mental health care for individuals utilizing evidence based medicine and therapy. CCMG provides services to evaluate, diagnose, establish treatment plan options, education of treatment options, and care management, so that individuals can make an informed decision that is most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Cognitive Care Medical Group (CCMG). CCMG is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologist with the sole focus of providing mental health care for individuals utilizing evidence based medicine and therapy. CCMG provides services to evaluate, diagnose, establish treatment plan options, education of treatment options, and care management, so that individuals can make an informed decision that is most helpful to their needs.
![Photo of Jessica Norman - Jessica Norman-Agency Has No Waiting List!, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67531fa6-c37a-42b8-b2ec-61db9c0cc2e9/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Norman-Agency Has No Waiting List!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
I believe in having positive values and acting as a safe space for clients to heal in. I practice kindness, respect, and patience in learning who my clients are and how best to help them. I was raised in Hawaii and warmth and genuineness is a part of the environment that I received my education and upbringing in. I am looking forward to meeting you and hope to have the opportunity to find out more about you. I am currently accepting clients in both Washington and Oregon states, both in person and via telehealth.
I believe in having positive values and acting as a safe space for clients to heal in. I practice kindness, respect, and patience in learning who my clients are and how best to help them. I was raised in Hawaii and warmth and genuineness is a part of the environment that I received my education and upbringing in. I am looking forward to meeting you and hope to have the opportunity to find out more about you. I am currently accepting clients in both Washington and Oregon states, both in person and via telehealth.
![Photo of Lizz Pierce-Green, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52b0a8f2-1d2c-4e1b-889c-bb9434cc2b74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lizz Pierce-Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canby, OR 97013
Hello, I am Lizz, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with individuals from 5 to 64 years of age who struggle with ADHD, major depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mental health concerns.
Hello, I am Lizz, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with individuals from 5 to 64 years of age who struggle with ADHD, major depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mental health concerns.
![Photo of Leah Bloomberg, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32e9e4b2-e974-4add-8b09-d3b29dda21e6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Bloomberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Waitlist for new clients
I am board-certified in psychiatric care as a PMHNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I work primarily with medications for people seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life.
I am board-certified in psychiatric care as a PMHNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I work primarily with medications for people seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life.
![Photo of Mollie Kathleen Pence, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96300deb-3cde-46cb-b506-ae9976486da9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mollie Kathleen Pence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045 (Online Only)
My core values include honesty, empathy, and vulnerability. I am nationally board certified in psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic techniques that focus on a holistic treatment approach for each patient. This individualized treatment prioritizes the important mind body connection we humans share. My core experience has been treating anxiety and mood spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and training in neuromodulation therapies for treatment resistant depression. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18-65. Please contact me for current hours of operation. Telehealth services only at this time.
My core values include honesty, empathy, and vulnerability. I am nationally board certified in psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic techniques that focus on a holistic treatment approach for each patient. This individualized treatment prioritizes the important mind body connection we humans share. My core experience has been treating anxiety and mood spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and training in neuromodulation therapies for treatment resistant depression. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18-65. Please contact me for current hours of operation. Telehealth services only at this time.
![Photo of Farzad Kamyar, MD, MBA, ABPN, ABPM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e2da473-d8f5-49a2-be78-2269381bf5b7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Farzad Kamyar
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, ABPN, ABPM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
For all new patient inquiries and questions, please go to: www.principlemind.com/new-patient-inquiry EMAILS and CALLS sent through Psychology Today are not monitored nor responded to. At the Principal Mind, the practice is about the integration of medication with goal-specific therapy. We aim to meet individuals where they are, while at the same time working as hard as they are. We treat the person in front of us and their symptoms, as every diagnosis may present differently, and be caused by different sources. If you are motivated and open-minded, we can work to actually get you better.
For all new patient inquiries and questions, please go to: www.principlemind.com/new-patient-inquiry EMAILS and CALLS sent through Psychology Today are not monitored nor responded to. At the Principal Mind, the practice is about the integration of medication with goal-specific therapy. We aim to meet individuals where they are, while at the same time working as hard as they are. We treat the person in front of us and their symptoms, as every diagnosis may present differently, and be caused by different sources. If you are motivated and open-minded, we can work to actually get you better.
![Photo of Aisha Abbasi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b596d78-f267-4d2c-a41d-5a503cdbee9d/1/320x400.png)
For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it’s because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be one of America’s Best Doctors for twenty years in a row.
For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it’s because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be one of America’s Best Doctors for twenty years in a row.
![Photo of Tiffany Stradling, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a62fcf95-8671-4584-bbc9-790dfa949339/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Stradling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children and adults in AZ, and adults in OR and WA. I have a passion for helping each person live up to their full potential, helping them to live their best lives! I work closely with each patient to develop a personalized plan for improved health and function. In addition to prescribing medication, I recommend herbal supplements and remedies as appropriate. My goal is to have patients on the least amount of medication necessary to help them achieve the goal of a fulfilled, functional and successful life.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children and adults in AZ, and adults in OR and WA. I have a passion for helping each person live up to their full potential, helping them to live their best lives! I work closely with each patient to develop a personalized plan for improved health and function. In addition to prescribing medication, I recommend herbal supplements and remedies as appropriate. My goal is to have patients on the least amount of medication necessary to help them achieve the goal of a fulfilled, functional and successful life.
See more therapy options for Clackamas County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Clackamas County, OR
100+
Average cost per session
$266
Psychiatrists in Clackamas County, OR who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
82% | Medication Management |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | ADHD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
77% | Aetna |
73% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in Clackamas County, OR see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Clackamas County?
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.