Psychiatrists in Polk County, OR
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58fefcf9-916c-47ac-b44c-05ba24a4bfb3/2/320x400.png)
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. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94332702-19f8-4ed3-838f-c0f2919f545f/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Madeleine Sanford, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d07bfd8a-3990-4f95-b5d1-19c5c7cac138/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madeleine is board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). After many years and extensive experience as a family nurse practitioner working in multiple settings including outpatient, school-based health, education, and urgent care, she obtained an additional degree to become a PMHNP and focus on her passion for mental health. Her style is individualized to the person, evidence-based, trauma-informed and holistic. She sees patients across the lifespan, including children and adolescents. Additionally, she has completed training for MAT (medication assisted therapy for opioid use disorders).
Madeleine is board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). After many years and extensive experience as a family nurse practitioner working in multiple settings including outpatient, school-based health, education, and urgent care, she obtained an additional degree to become a PMHNP and focus on her passion for mental health. Her style is individualized to the person, evidence-based, trauma-informed and holistic. She sees patients across the lifespan, including children and adolescents. Additionally, she has completed training for MAT (medication assisted therapy for opioid use disorders).
![Photo of Julie Angileri, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/395d69f4-ab05-45b0-bad3-f8f84b69d278/1/320x400.png)
Accepting New Patients! We are excited to announce Julie is now certified in Autism and ADHD Clinical Services. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Julie is here to support you. Reaching out can be tough, but you don't have to suffer alone. Regain control and vitality in a safe, confidential space. Our team promises to guide you through challenges while respecting your autonomy. We're not pushy; we're members of your healthcare team! Your decisions matter—you and Julie will collaborate to enhance your well-being. Take the first step toward brighter future; and let Julie navigate this journey with you.
Accepting New Patients! We are excited to announce Julie is now certified in Autism and ADHD Clinical Services. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Julie is here to support you. Reaching out can be tough, but you don't have to suffer alone. Regain control and vitality in a safe, confidential space. Our team promises to guide you through challenges while respecting your autonomy. We're not pushy; we're members of your healthcare team! Your decisions matter—you and Julie will collaborate to enhance your well-being. Take the first step toward brighter future; and let Julie navigate this journey with you.
![Photo of Faiza Haque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e912afa1-5dc8-4f66-9a1a-9e9d3887929d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I graduated from Mcmaster University in Ontario, Canada and later attended the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with a master’s degree in nursing followed by post graduation diploma in Psychiatry. I am a compassionate person who works hard to build trust among my patients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) I use a holistic approach to diagnose and treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, providing medications, making assessments, and planning patient centered interventions.
I graduated from Mcmaster University in Ontario, Canada and later attended the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with a master’s degree in nursing followed by post graduation diploma in Psychiatry. I am a compassionate person who works hard to build trust among my patients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) I use a holistic approach to diagnose and treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, providing medications, making assessments, and planning patient centered interventions.
![Photo of Dale LaChance, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b96e026-5e16-41fb-a76f-45ca4535ad45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dale is board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). He has worked in numerous hospital and outpatient settings and spent 10 years overseeing the daily operations of the psychiatry, medical, and dental services at a state juvenile correctional facility. He believes in evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to mental health, has a comprehensive background working in private, rural community outpatient mental health clinics, and foster care agencies providing medication management and mental health care to children, adolescents and adults. He specializes in treating ADHD, ODD, depression, anxiety
Dale is board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). He has worked in numerous hospital and outpatient settings and spent 10 years overseeing the daily operations of the psychiatry, medical, and dental services at a state juvenile correctional facility. He believes in evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to mental health, has a comprehensive background working in private, rural community outpatient mental health clinics, and foster care agencies providing medication management and mental health care to children, adolescents and adults. He specializes in treating ADHD, ODD, depression, anxiety
![Photo of Kristina Timmons, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b20c268-e6fd-411e-b78a-8ed9db85e6b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Timmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
Struggling with sadness, lack of motivation or finding joy? Consumed by worry or often feeling on edge? Trouble focusing or staying on task? Self-medicating because the emotional pain is too much? Do you often leave medical appointments feeling rushed and unheard or misunderstood? .... Whatever the struggle may be that is keeping you from being your best self, there is hope! ....You are the expert of your own experience and I bring years of experience and knowledge of the latest evidence-based treatments. I would love to meet with you and walk with you on your journey to mental wellness and freedom.
Struggling with sadness, lack of motivation or finding joy? Consumed by worry or often feeling on edge? Trouble focusing or staying on task? Self-medicating because the emotional pain is too much? Do you often leave medical appointments feeling rushed and unheard or misunderstood? .... Whatever the struggle may be that is keeping you from being your best self, there is hope! ....You are the expert of your own experience and I bring years of experience and knowledge of the latest evidence-based treatments. I would love to meet with you and walk with you on your journey to mental wellness and freedom.
![Photo of Patrick Testa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcde42c2-717a-46d4-9aa5-e53cf137e07c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. I have experience helping patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, and other psychiatric issues. In my practice, I use psychiatric medication and complementary approaches such as lifestyle changes, nutrition, and mindfulness. My philosophy is to treat the whole person and prescribe medication thoughtfully, considering best practice along with patient preferences. I enjoy working together with clients to develop a plan of care that is tailored to their goals, unique strengths and life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. I have experience helping patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, and other psychiatric issues. In my practice, I use psychiatric medication and complementary approaches such as lifestyle changes, nutrition, and mindfulness. My philosophy is to treat the whole person and prescribe medication thoughtfully, considering best practice along with patient preferences. I enjoy working together with clients to develop a plan of care that is tailored to their goals, unique strengths and life.
![Photo of Jennifer Behnke - Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/106aa8f9-7a1a-4dea-8a0b-2f5d37699320/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.
![Photo of Tarra L. Baker, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0de57a8c-ed51-4184-bf94-20c4c2bd0e81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tarra L. Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
**Accepting New Clients** I am the sole owner and provider of a small practice in South Salem. In my practice, I see clients from 14+ for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses. I offer brief therapy with specific goals, I use an adaptive modality to focus on each individual client's need at the time. In addition, I also prescribe and manage medications both in person at my brick and mortar practice, and given the advances in security and communication via telepsychiatry appointments scheduled via my office staff with established clients as Oregonian law stipulates at least every six months that we meet.
![Photo of Yvonne Ekama, PMHNP, BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/890489fe-5226-43d6-b96d-66af9282fce3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yvonne Ekama
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Independence, OR 97351 (Online Only)
Nice to meet you! I'm Yvonne, Yes I am accepting patients. Are you experiencing difficulties focusing, feeling down and having sleepless nights? If so, I can help you. I specialize in treating patients experiencing symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Sleep disorders, Bipolar disorders, and more. I provide medication management, and Supportive therapy. I love to empower patients to become the best version of themselves in every aspect of their lives.
Nice to meet you! I'm Yvonne, Yes I am accepting patients. Are you experiencing difficulties focusing, feeling down and having sleepless nights? If so, I can help you. I specialize in treating patients experiencing symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Sleep disorders, Bipolar disorders, and more. I provide medication management, and Supportive therapy. I love to empower patients to become the best version of themselves in every aspect of their lives.
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![Photo of Bethany Kristine Jensen - Doctor B Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3219dec3-8556-46f3-998b-4ad0be1b64db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Doctor B Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97304 (Online Only)
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has experience working in county-based, residential, secure inpatient, and rural psychiatric settings. My clinical approach is egalitarian; collaborating with patients and their loved ones to thoroughly provide education on mental health options for patients to make decisions that are subjectively best for their healing, wholeness, and longitudinal health.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has experience working in county-based, residential, secure inpatient, and rural psychiatric settings. My clinical approach is egalitarian; collaborating with patients and their loved ones to thoroughly provide education on mental health options for patients to make decisions that are subjectively best for their healing, wholeness, and longitudinal health.
![Photo of Andrea Ward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4727ac9b-266e-4d79-9554-145dc9c0e2a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, OR 97338
Not accepting new clients
My practice draws heavily from Relational Theory, meaning that I believe in the importance of the patient-provider relationship. I share openly about my identities because I believe this disclosure empowers people who are considering working with me to decide for themselves if my identities and stances create comfort or conflict for them. I am a white-skinned, able-bodied, straight-passing, bisexual, queer cis-woman of Western European ancestry. I am generally conferred access to most spaces, places, resources, etc. with ease, even while some of my identities are also subject to marginalization and persecution.
My practice draws heavily from Relational Theory, meaning that I believe in the importance of the patient-provider relationship. I share openly about my identities because I believe this disclosure empowers people who are considering working with me to decide for themselves if my identities and stances create comfort or conflict for them. I am a white-skinned, able-bodied, straight-passing, bisexual, queer cis-woman of Western European ancestry. I am generally conferred access to most spaces, places, resources, etc. with ease, even while some of my identities are also subject to marginalization and persecution.
![Photo of Robin Perez - ValueCore Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/823235eb-7970-4450-af59-8a6cf405f29a/2/320x400.jpeg)
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Elizabeth Catherine Dotson, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4619e9cf-4586-49df-81e5-db07cd379975/4/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Catherine Dotson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Independence, OR 97351
Waitlist for new clients
Currently accepting new patients, with appointment availability in approximately 6-8 weeks. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I serve Oregon patients through in-person and telehealth services. My primary focus is on medication management, with therapy provided rarely and only on a case-by-case basis due to limited availability. I do not offer therapy alone. My approach to psychiatric care is holistic, non-judgmental, and collaborative, ensuring a safe, confidential space for discussing thoughts and challenges. I also make treatment recommendations beyond medication for a comprehensive, tailored plan.
Currently accepting new patients, with appointment availability in approximately 6-8 weeks. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I serve Oregon patients through in-person and telehealth services. My primary focus is on medication management, with therapy provided rarely and only on a case-by-case basis due to limited availability. I do not offer therapy alone. My approach to psychiatric care is holistic, non-judgmental, and collaborative, ensuring a safe, confidential space for discussing thoughts and challenges. I also make treatment recommendations beyond medication for a comprehensive, tailored plan.
![Photo of Dr. Katharine Frissora, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9e559a4-565a-43e4-9269-bedbe1cc313d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Katharine Frissora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304 (Online Only)
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jessica Ward, PMHNP, MPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b355f556-682a-4ab9-b639-a9661ec0bebd/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
Now Accepting New TMS Clients! My name is Jessica Ward, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. My experience includes working with children, preteens and adults of all ages with conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic illness, and other co-occurring disorders.
Now Accepting New TMS Clients! My name is Jessica Ward, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. My experience includes working with children, preteens and adults of all ages with conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic illness, and other co-occurring disorders.
![Photo of Joan Ili, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9f8109b-4901-45f0-97de-61f50890541b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joan Ili
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
I provide remote psychiatric evaluations and manage medications through telehealth care for adults in AZ, OR and WA. I love to help my clients work towards feeling better! An individualized care plan is created for each client. Along with prescribing medication, I may also recommend labs, nutrients, and mental health techniques, if appropriate. I strive to use the least amount of medications while still improving mental health.
I provide remote psychiatric evaluations and manage medications through telehealth care for adults in AZ, OR and WA. I love to help my clients work towards feeling better! An individualized care plan is created for each client. Along with prescribing medication, I may also recommend labs, nutrients, and mental health techniques, if appropriate. I strive to use the least amount of medications while still improving mental health.
![Photo of Ryan R. Gorman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1de7c6f0-42f2-44bb-b142-fc257ca1be89/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan R. Gorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211 (Online Only)
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
![Photo of Dana Jones, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cbc8057-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
See more therapy options for Polk County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Polk County, OR
10+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in Polk County, OR who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Medication Management |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | PacificSource |
79% | Aetna |
71% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Polk County, OR see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
41% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Polk 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.