Psychiatrists in Coos County, OR
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eb7b9f6-696b-4175-b62a-5ae5d743eaf3/2/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Dr. Pei Harris, DNP, NP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbe8ebbd-dc0a-40f6-8d56-88704416d8b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Pei Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
North Bend, OR 97459
Waitlist for new clients
I am Dr. Pei Harris, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with a specialty in endo-psychiatry. This field is challenging but rewarding and practicing it has always been my passion. I am also an ADHD Clinical Certified Service Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and Certified Hypnotherapist. In addition, OCD, insomnia, bipolar I & II, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health issues in both the pediatric and adult populations are among the psychiatric illnesses I treat.
I am Dr. Pei Harris, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with a specialty in endo-psychiatry. This field is challenging but rewarding and practicing it has always been my passion. I am also an ADHD Clinical Certified Service Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and Certified Hypnotherapist. In addition, OCD, insomnia, bipolar I & II, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health issues in both the pediatric and adult populations are among the psychiatric illnesses I treat.
![Photo of Ashley Phillips - Coastal Roots Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bb1c1e6-a698-46b1-92ad-89996134f776/1/320x400.jpeg)
Coastal Roots Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Bend, OR 97459 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to provide competent, respectful, and empathetic patient centered mental health care of all ages. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself and guide you through that process.
I am dedicated to provide competent, respectful, and empathetic patient centered mental health care of all ages. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself and guide you through that process.
![Photo of Jamie Nadine Mayo, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0db41f6e-d5dd-46d4-a8ed-bc1878bb94b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie specializes in working with clients with PTSD and/or complex trauma. In addition to therapy, she also offers psychiatric medication management. She served in the US Navy Reserves for 8 years and is the wife of a retired Sheriff’s Deputy. She is thankful for all our Military Veterans, Firefighters, Emergency Responders, and Police Officers here in Coastal and Southern Oregon.
Jamie specializes in working with clients with PTSD and/or complex trauma. In addition to therapy, she also offers psychiatric medication management. She served in the US Navy Reserves for 8 years and is the wife of a retired Sheriff’s Deputy. She is thankful for all our Military Veterans, Firefighters, Emergency Responders, and Police Officers here in Coastal and Southern Oregon.
![Photo of Tyler Dawn Cooper, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/132db836-aa41-4233-b98c-ad435128c517/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tyler Dawn Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Bend, OR 97459 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone ready to really get to work and heal. They are open minded to medications as well as weaning off medications in a supported and healthy way. They are open-minded to all the many ways that healing happens and they are ready to do things that they have not done before in order to feel better than ever.
My ideal client is someone ready to really get to work and heal. They are open minded to medications as well as weaning off medications in a supported and healthy way. They are open-minded to all the many ways that healing happens and they are ready to do things that they have not done before in order to feel better than ever.
![Photo of Danielle Norris - Cedar Psychiatric Associates, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50204b1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cedar Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Both In Person (Eugene and Reedsport) and Telehealth Appts Available! Accepting new Medicaid and Commercial Insurance clients. We are at capacity for Medicare clients and not accepting any new Medicare clients at this time. Please check back periodically as this can change. A Request an Appointment Form is located on our Cedar Psychiatric Associates website under the New Clients tab.
Both In Person (Eugene and Reedsport) and Telehealth Appts Available! Accepting new Medicaid and Commercial Insurance clients. We are at capacity for Medicare clients and not accepting any new Medicare clients at this time. Please check back periodically as this can change. A Request an Appointment Form is located on our Cedar Psychiatric Associates website under the New Clients tab.
![Photo of Jonathan Wayne - NTX , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6d6064f-d5b3-45bb-958c-6f19dcb5aa5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Your mental health isn't something to put off. Start feeling better today! Expert Help For Your Emotional Health. Online and in- person help for anxiety, depression, insomnia, traumatic stress, ADHD. We have licensed prescribers, therapists and provide ADHD Testing, and Ketamine treatments. We embrace diversity and have a team of clinicians to treat clients of all ages. Please visit our website at www.neuropsychiatrytx.com
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Your mental health isn't something to put off. Start feeling better today! Expert Help For Your Emotional Health. Online and in- person help for anxiety, depression, insomnia, traumatic stress, ADHD. We have licensed prescribers, therapists and provide ADHD Testing, and Ketamine treatments. We embrace diversity and have a team of clinicians to treat clients of all ages. Please visit our website at www.neuropsychiatrytx.com
![Photo of Nathan Patrick Johnson - Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry), MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8623687-269b-476e-9af4-83d4062ac926/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coos Bay, OR 97420
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
![Photo of Yvonne Amune - SOL Care Clinic, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58a5a3b6-925a-43b6-9bc6-4be8a6afe647/2/320x400.jpeg)
SOL Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Bend, OR 97459
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51837bd9-ff2a-430a-b3b4-28546b24e5d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Gold Beach, OR 97444 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Dr. Christopher Galbick, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31c223e4-188b-4f63-9889-93efce318cf5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Galbick sees OHP patients with Jackson Care Connect, Health Share of Oregon, and Columbia Pacific CCO. He is currently welcoming new patients and can usually offer appointment availability within 2 weeks! He specializes in medication management, and he emphasizes active listening and empathy in his approach to patient care.
Dr. Galbick sees OHP patients with Jackson Care Connect, Health Share of Oregon, and Columbia Pacific CCO. He is currently welcoming new patients and can usually offer appointment availability within 2 weeks! He specializes in medication management, and he emphasizes active listening and empathy in his approach to patient care.
![Photo of Jonathan Wayne, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da6f5d8-d74d-4ac5-bca0-f15fea4f4841/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Wayne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401 (Online Only)
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Hello! I’m Jonathan Wayne founder of LGBTQ+ Telepsychiatry and NTX. Have you ever felt judged by your family, friends or colleagues for your way of life, values, or world view? If yes, then you’re in the right place. I noticed that there weren’t many mental health options tailored to assist the specific needs for the LGBTQ+ community & as a black gay male, I knew this would be my niche.
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Hello! I’m Jonathan Wayne founder of LGBTQ+ Telepsychiatry and NTX. Have you ever felt judged by your family, friends or colleagues for your way of life, values, or world view? If yes, then you’re in the right place. I noticed that there weren’t many mental health options tailored to assist the specific needs for the LGBTQ+ community & as a black gay male, I knew this would be my niche.
![Photo of Shannon LaDouce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548301be-4be4-4553-b150-f81e01f034b5/3/320x400.png)
Shannon LaDouce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401 (Online Only)
SUMMER 2024- OPEN. Request appointment at www.upwellpsych.com I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - the folks who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing the pressures of the field, a mom juggling the demands of parenthood, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
SUMMER 2024- OPEN. Request appointment at www.upwellpsych.com I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - the folks who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing the pressures of the field, a mom juggling the demands of parenthood, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
![Photo of Ayisha Sanda, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1357dc1f-90a5-4ef7-b984-477ade825754/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ayisha Sanda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD(testing available) , depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD(testing available) , depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
![Photo of DeRoy C Obilor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b198f9c-cd9d-430d-8477-dc0c50ddcf4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. DeRoy Obilor is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He is committed to providing adult & elderly clients with high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care. DeRoy has solid clinical skills complemented by a natural ability to connect with clients and their families DeRoy's role as a PMHNP is multifaceted, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management.
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. DeRoy Obilor is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He is committed to providing adult & elderly clients with high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care. DeRoy has solid clinical skills complemented by a natural ability to connect with clients and their families DeRoy's role as a PMHNP is multifaceted, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management.
![Photo of Andrea Witham - Floss Mental Health, LLC, MSN, FNPC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ade7e87f-6326-4419-96c4-5a6313ef8ae2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Floss Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNPC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseburg, OR 97470
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected? Have you been told you just need to prioritize some “self-care”? Is your current “self-care” not working? Let me ask you this, do you brush your teeth daily? Do you floss daily? Do you still prioritize going to the dentist for a cleaning and check-up? Whether it is a dentist, a chiropractor, an aesthetician, a primary care provider, or a personal trainer; we all seek out professionals to guide us in preventing and optimizing our health and wellness. So why do so many people try to manage their mental health alone?
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected? Have you been told you just need to prioritize some “self-care”? Is your current “self-care” not working? Let me ask you this, do you brush your teeth daily? Do you floss daily? Do you still prioritize going to the dentist for a cleaning and check-up? Whether it is a dentist, a chiropractor, an aesthetician, a primary care provider, or a personal trainer; we all seek out professionals to guide us in preventing and optimizing our health and wellness. So why do so many people try to manage their mental health alone?
![Photo of Shantel Escobar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3142e2e-7933-4a29-b77d-a21f18b601cf/1/320x400.png)
Shantel Escobar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brookings, OR 97415 (Online Only)
Please visit my website at healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
Please visit my website at healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1576cd5-04a9-453d-a24a-53c339b6fd53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 8/29/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 8/29/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
![Photo of Marissa Gaines, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0458a3e-201a-4102-815d-33cd57ea9aaf/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a holistic psychiatric nurse practitioner, my practice is deeply rooted in the principles of integrative psychiatry, where the focus is not just on alleviating symptoms but on nurturing overall well-being. I am passionate about partnering with individuals who are ready to explore a new perspective on their mental health journey.
As a holistic psychiatric nurse practitioner, my practice is deeply rooted in the principles of integrative psychiatry, where the focus is not just on alleviating symptoms but on nurturing overall well-being. I am passionate about partnering with individuals who are ready to explore a new perspective on their mental health journey.
![Photo of Marisa Bell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e61a32c0-ab10-457e-8486-26589dddbeee/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Coos County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Coos County, OR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Coos County, OR who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Medicaid |
86% | Oregon Health Plan (OHP) |
71% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Coos County, OR see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Coos County?
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.