Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR

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Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128  (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.
(503) 386-9750 View (503) 386-9750
Photo of Jennifer Behnke - Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128
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.
(971) 251-9589 View (971) 251-9589
Photo of Ryan Tateishi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Tateishi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128  (Online Only)
I strive to develop personalized treatments that are designed to suit each person's lifestyle and strengthen self-awareness and resources for self-care. I have a clinical interest in integrative medicine in which the patient and provider are partners in the treatment process and all factors that influence health are taken into consideration. An integrative approach combines conventional medical and psychiatric diagnostic techniques and treatments with alternative strategies such as mindfulness therapy, supplements, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and other complementary approaches.
I strive to develop personalized treatments that are designed to suit each person's lifestyle and strengthen self-awareness and resources for self-care. I have a clinical interest in integrative medicine in which the patient and provider are partners in the treatment process and all factors that influence health are taken into consideration. An integrative approach combines conventional medical and psychiatric diagnostic techniques and treatments with alternative strategies such as mindfulness therapy, supplements, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and other complementary approaches.
(971) 257-1172 View (971) 257-1172
Photo of Ablavi Agomessou - Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Verified Verified
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
(678) 922-4240 View (678) 922-4240
Photo of Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
(541) 204-4906 View (541) 204-4906
Photo of Timothy Lafolette, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Timothy Lafolette
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
(971) 278-9801 View (971) 278-9801
Photo of Mackenzie Callis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mackenzie Callis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
(503) 664-9799 View (503) 664-9799
Photo of Erin S Fitzgerald, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin S Fitzgerald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128
My name is Erin and I am a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP/PMHNP). My work experience is vast and I have cared for patients from newborn to the elderly. I have worked in Pain Management, Palliative Care, Hospice and Psychiatric Care for over thirty years. As a PMHNP I have expertise treating numerous mental health disorders. I am proficient in utilizing the most up-to-date, evidenced-based care to assess, diagnose and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and many more.
My name is Erin and I am a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP/PMHNP). My work experience is vast and I have cared for patients from newborn to the elderly. I have worked in Pain Management, Palliative Care, Hospice and Psychiatric Care for over thirty years. As a PMHNP I have expertise treating numerous mental health disorders. I am proficient in utilizing the most up-to-date, evidenced-based care to assess, diagnose and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and many more.
(541) 348-8370 View (541) 348-8370
Photo of Jake Alan Freeman - Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128  (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 immediate 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 immediate 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.
(503) 850-2341 View (503) 850-2341

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Tiffany Stradling, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Stradling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children and adults in AZ, and adults in OR and WA. I have a passion for helping each person live up to their full potential, helping them to live their best lives! I work closely with each patient to develop a personalized plan for improved health and function. In addition to prescribing medication, I recommend herbal supplements and remedies as appropriate. My goal is to have patients on the least amount of medication necessary to help them achieve the goal of a fulfilled, functional and successful life.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children and adults in AZ, and adults in OR and WA. I have a passion for helping each person live up to their full potential, helping them to live their best lives! I work closely with each patient to develop a personalized plan for improved health and function. In addition to prescribing medication, I recommend herbal supplements and remedies as appropriate. My goal is to have patients on the least amount of medication necessary to help them achieve the goal of a fulfilled, functional and successful life.
(503) 483-6530 View (503) 483-6530
Photo of Doris Okoli, DNP, MPH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doris Okoli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management virtually for children and adults. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management virtually for children and adults. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life.
(971) 626-4349 View (971) 626-4349
Photo of Brian Esparza - Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services, MD, SAP, MRO, Psychiatrist
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD, SAP, MRO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services treats a wide variety of chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders and mental health symptoms. Call for your intake appointment today. We are conveniently located close in SE Portland at 12th & Salmon. Services offered: Psychiatric Services and Medication Management.
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services treats a wide variety of chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders and mental health symptoms. Call for your intake appointment today. We are conveniently located close in SE Portland at 12th & Salmon. Services offered: Psychiatric Services and Medication Management.
(503) 573-8388 View (503) 573-8388
Photo of Jeanne Johnson, MS, DDS, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeanne Johnson
Psychiatrist, MS, DDS, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
My goal is to partner with individuals to relieve emotional pain and suffering. We all encounter periods of emotional turmoil in our lives that may lead to feelings of isolation, grief, anxiety and depression. During these times, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find solutions to problems on our own. Along with fostering a safe environment for sharing, I provide psychoanalysis and psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy. I endeavor to empower others to find a greater sense of emotional flexibility, discover new solutions to old problems, invigorate relationships, achieve peace of mind, and experience enduring change.
My goal is to partner with individuals to relieve emotional pain and suffering. We all encounter periods of emotional turmoil in our lives that may lead to feelings of isolation, grief, anxiety and depression. During these times, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find solutions to problems on our own. Along with fostering a safe environment for sharing, I provide psychoanalysis and psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy. I endeavor to empower others to find a greater sense of emotional flexibility, discover new solutions to old problems, invigorate relationships, achieve peace of mind, and experience enduring change.
(971) 260-4183 View (971) 260-4183
Photo of Pritham Raj, MD, Psychiatrist
Pritham Raj
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
(503) 436-6532 View (503) 436-6532
Photo of Jonathan McCully, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan McCully
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
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.
(458) 200-4087 View (458) 200-4087
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
(503) 433-8823 View (503) 433-8823
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(561) 823-1255 x2 View (561) 823-1255 x2
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
(971) 306-4325 x2 View (971) 306-4325 x2
Benson Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Currently Accepting New Patients with one of our many Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, some have openings as soon as 2 weeks! Most of our providers that are accepting new patients are only able to do telehealth appointments. We do have a couple providers that are able to do in person appointments. Your provider will work with you to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your behavioral health goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients with one of our many Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, some have openings as soon as 2 weeks! Most of our providers that are accepting new patients are only able to do telehealth appointments. We do have a couple providers that are able to do in person appointments. Your provider will work with you to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your behavioral health goals.
(541) 568-6933 View (541) 568-6933
Photo of Brooke Sheehan, MS,  PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brooke Sheehan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gladstone, OR 97027
Brooke obtained her Masters in Nursing (MSN) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner license (PMHNP) in 2005 from Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU). She worked with children, teens, adults, and families in community mental health for 16 years prior to coming to Lifestance. Her focus is mental health diagnosis and medicine management. She is Licensed in both Oregon and Washington. Brooke believes in a biologically focused approach to practice and the biomedical model which posits that mental disorders are brain diseases and emphasizes pharmacological treatment to target presumed biological abnormalities.
Brooke obtained her Masters in Nursing (MSN) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner license (PMHNP) in 2005 from Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU). She worked with children, teens, adults, and families in community mental health for 16 years prior to coming to Lifestance. Her focus is mental health diagnosis and medicine management. She is Licensed in both Oregon and Washington. Brooke believes in a biologically focused approach to practice and the biomedical model which posits that mental disorders are brain diseases and emphasizes pharmacological treatment to target presumed biological abnormalities.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403

See more therapy options for Yamhill County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR

< 10

Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
89% Medication Management
78% Sleep or Insomnia
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Yamhill County, OR see their clients

77% Online Only
23% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

55% Male
45% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Yamhill 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.