Psychiatrists in Prineville, OR
![Photo of Laura Meaney, DNAP, PMHNPBC, CRNA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7400138-2bcf-443b-8ae3-1db330dd6852/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Meaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNAP, PMHNPBC, CRNA
Verified Verified
Prineville, OR 97754
Ideally, I work with clients who are looking for relief from anxiety and depression, those suffering from PTSD, and those with chronic pain. Fortunately, ketamine is compatible with many medications and you may continue your current therapy throughout induction phases. After this initial phase, it is often possible to wean or eliminate certain medications, as well as alleviate troubling symptoms from your daily life.
Ideally, I work with clients who are looking for relief from anxiety and depression, those suffering from PTSD, and those with chronic pain. Fortunately, ketamine is compatible with many medications and you may continue your current therapy throughout induction phases. After this initial phase, it is often possible to wean or eliminate certain medications, as well as alleviate troubling symptoms from your daily life.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Katelyn Smith, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc7ee163-8539-4bab-94bd-416c82797fa7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! If you’re facing challenges like depression or anxiety, you’re looking for a compassionate approach that understands and addresses your unique needs. You want to feel heard, supported, and to make real progress in your mental well-being. I’m here to guide you through that journey with care and dedication. I believe in collaborative care to ensure sustainable wellness.
Welcome! If you’re facing challenges like depression or anxiety, you’re looking for a compassionate approach that understands and addresses your unique needs. You want to feel heard, supported, and to make real progress in your mental well-being. I’m here to guide you through that journey with care and dedication. I believe in collaborative care to ensure sustainable wellness.
![Photo of Megan Lewis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98d47915-d279-478e-8bc1-4aef9d168413/1/320x400.png)
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
![Photo of Loni Verzuh - Center & Flow Psychiatry - Loni Verzuh PMHNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d0cd2b3-6e45-4eb1-8354-0149c267bd41/2/320x400.jpeg)
Center & Flow Psychiatry - Loni Verzuh PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
My primary goal as both a provider and founder of the Center & Flow mental health collective is to gather a solid community of support around your care. I want to develop connections not only between you and behavioral professionals, but others like you in the community. By becoming an integral part of our small collective, you will be granted the space and opportunity to build new and profound relationships with peers who possess an firsthand understanding of your unique struggles and experiences.
My primary goal as both a provider and founder of the Center & Flow mental health collective is to gather a solid community of support around your care. I want to develop connections not only between you and behavioral professionals, but others like you in the community. By becoming an integral part of our small collective, you will be granted the space and opportunity to build new and profound relationships with peers who possess an firsthand understanding of your unique struggles and experiences.
![Photo of Christa DeGrazia, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9524ddda-6bc8-49a5-9128-771f57b6774d/2/320x400.png)
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
![Photo of Jake Alan Freeman - Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7ab8eab-1a57-4bd5-8a4c-1f930dac62f1/5/320x400.jpeg)
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
![Photo of Jordan Meier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1515c4e-7baf-47ab-ba7e-5f6ff8af470b/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, personalized care to address their unique mental health needs. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their well-being. Their goals may include regaining balance, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving lasting positive change.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, personalized care to address their unique mental health needs. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to take control of their well-being. Their goals may include regaining balance, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving lasting positive change.
![Photo of Terri Leigh Squires Licensed Medical Provider In Psychiatry, NBCC, LPC, FNP-BC, PNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3359aaa5-4b25-4c80-9839-55c71b68f09f/1/320x400.png)
Terri Leigh Squires Licensed Medical Provider In Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NBCC, LPC, FNP-BC, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Emergency Psych,Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Emergency Psych,Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
![Photo of Kristyn Prockish, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0eab894-1a49-4503-a609-a957787eb262/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
![Photo of Jonathan McCully, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8007d986-f582-4e2a-9167-d0a06da5e793/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan McCully
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
My name is Jon McCully. I am a board-certified PMHNP located in Bend, Oregon seeing patients via the internet throughout Oregon. I am accepting new patients ages 18 to 65. I have a strong military, first responder, and social services treatment background and understand the unique situations these professions face. I work with people from all different walks of life as well. With a "think like a nurse first mentality," the core of how I practice is understanding the whole person and the interplay of biological, socio-cultural, and environmental factors that influence mental health and wellbeing unique to only you.
My name is Jon McCully. I am a board-certified PMHNP located in Bend, Oregon seeing patients via the internet throughout Oregon. I am accepting new patients ages 18 to 65. I have a strong military, first responder, and social services treatment background and understand the unique situations these professions face. I work with people from all different walks of life as well. With a "think like a nurse first mentality," the core of how I practice is understanding the whole person and the interplay of biological, socio-cultural, and environmental factors that influence mental health and wellbeing unique to only you.
![Photo of Cayley Mesterheide, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-ps, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8625b7ab-c17e-47c8-a851-0dd983e84c67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cayley Mesterheide
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-ps
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703 (Online Only)
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5ba216f-1824-4f94-acd2-c10cac1ce36b/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 Maggie Yorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6660935-8983-4a6d-8ba1-376eb32ebc5e/1/320x400.png)
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication management. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Welcome! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication management. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
![Photo of Jacklynn Crump, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecf07c6b-1169-4be0-8d44-51eccc5082f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dual-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, and my goal is to provide compassionate and effective mental healthcare to children and adults who are struggling with mental illness. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, evidence-based, and tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, PTSD, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, learn coping skills, and develop a recovery plan.
I am a dual-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, and my goal is to provide compassionate and effective mental healthcare to children and adults who are struggling with mental illness. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, evidence-based, and tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, PTSD, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, learn coping skills, and develop a recovery plan.
![Photo of Christy Farleigh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffb0ded5-5ef5-42da-ae2d-0a4d951c204a/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Christy! With over a decade of clinical experience, I've had the opportunity to finely tune my skills in providing exceptional care to people from all walks of life. As a PMHNP, I put these skills to work helping clients like you identify and achieve your mental health goals. The heart of my practice is built on evidence-based treatments and patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs.
Hi, I'm Christy! With over a decade of clinical experience, I've had the opportunity to finely tune my skills in providing exceptional care to people from all walks of life. As a PMHNP, I put these skills to work helping clients like you identify and achieve your mental health goals. The heart of my practice is built on evidence-based treatments and patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs.
![Photo of Lea Croft - Empowered Healing, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b100ae0-2962-4ffa-93c6-849b9ec1aadb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empowered Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703 (Online Only)
I incorporate thoughtful and intentional use of pharmaceuticals, supplements, and nutritional therapies to improve and optimize mental health. I believe people have the innate ability to heal themselves, and my goals through medication and supportive management is to restore optimal functioning and balance.
I incorporate thoughtful and intentional use of pharmaceuticals, supplements, and nutritional therapies to improve and optimize mental health. I believe people have the innate ability to heal themselves, and my goals through medication and supportive management is to restore optimal functioning and balance.
![Photo of Justin Bethoney, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ee75fe0-7039-42b9-9526-fb1c217352a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I take a whole-person approach to assessment and treatment. Together, we create a holistic treatment plan for success. We start with identifying the major factors contributing to symptoms, such as sleep, diet, exercise, and other health issues. In the beginning, options for medications and other interventions are selected based on individual preferences. Along the way, insight-oriented therapy is added in to isolate negative core beliefs and make meaning out of struggles. All of this work takes time, so intake appointments can be up to 2 hours long, and follow-ups are typically 1 hour. -Online/Telemedicine visits only-
I take a whole-person approach to assessment and treatment. Together, we create a holistic treatment plan for success. We start with identifying the major factors contributing to symptoms, such as sleep, diet, exercise, and other health issues. In the beginning, options for medications and other interventions are selected based on individual preferences. Along the way, insight-oriented therapy is added in to isolate negative core beliefs and make meaning out of struggles. All of this work takes time, so intake appointments can be up to 2 hours long, and follow-ups are typically 1 hour. -Online/Telemedicine visits only-
![Photo of Julia Jansen, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdd59436-4b44-4d8d-87c6-54b2236ac17e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Jansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701 (Online Only)
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
![Photo of Stephanie Cypress - Cypress Psychiatric Care, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b808e984-93f6-466b-95dd-ce8cad44be85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cypress Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Accepting New Clients in 2024: At Cypress Psychiatric Care, we are partners in your care. You know yourself more than anyone else, and this insight will allow for efficient and effective outcomes. In my office, my goal is to create a supportive haven where you will be seen through a holistic lens, heard, and respected.
Accepting New Clients in 2024: At Cypress Psychiatric Care, we are partners in your care. You know yourself more than anyone else, and this insight will allow for efficient and effective outcomes. In my office, my goal is to create a supportive haven where you will be seen through a holistic lens, heard, and respected.
![Photo of George Harper Mecouch - Central Oregon Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401a3d48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in a psychiatrist for 42 years with extra training in Jungian oriented psychotherapy and Process oriented therapy. I work only with adults over 18 and specialize in dream work. My work is depth directed with emphasis on the imagination. I work with all symptom issues with this dream and body approach and prefer clients interested in long term weekly or twice weekly therapy.
I have been in a psychiatrist for 42 years with extra training in Jungian oriented psychotherapy and Process oriented therapy. I work only with adults over 18 and specialize in dream work. My work is depth directed with emphasis on the imagination. I work with all symptom issues with this dream and body approach and prefer clients interested in long term weekly or twice weekly therapy.
See more therapy options for Prineville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Prineville, OR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Prineville, OR who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Prineville, OR see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Prineville?
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.