Psychiatrists in Anchorage, AK
![Photo of Jeffrey Wright Bayless, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a86746e-a2ac-4cdc-8f6f-5f9baf30558f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Wright Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99504 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
![Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c77bb83c-640a-49c6-bb23-9654525eded7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508 (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
![Photo of Susan A Bryan, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b615e174-e51f-41da-9d10-632cbd7fae7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan A Bryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or contact my office.
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or contact my office.
![Photo of Jessica McGrath, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d0ba54c-1268-44bf-89a0-9e0d056a56a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to talk and share. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I won't be shocked by anything. I've worked with people from all walks of life.
Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to talk and share. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I won't be shocked by anything. I've worked with people from all walks of life.
![Photo of David N Ampong, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79357a38-635b-4f8b-8cb5-7ccb87884523/3/320x400.jpeg)
David N Ampong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Alaska Treatment Center offers individual and group psychotherapy in addition to medication management. Dr. Ampong is the owner of Alaska Treatment Center. He is a board-certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialty in addiction services. He provides mental health services for individuals with mental illness and those struggling with substance and alcohol abuse. Dr. Ampong focuses on the individual's unique needs through a biopsychosocial evaluation and cutting-edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
Alaska Treatment Center offers individual and group psychotherapy in addition to medication management. Dr. Ampong is the owner of Alaska Treatment Center. He is a board-certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialty in addiction services. He provides mental health services for individuals with mental illness and those struggling with substance and alcohol abuse. Dr. Ampong focuses on the individual's unique needs through a biopsychosocial evaluation and cutting-edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jason de Luisa - Integrated Wellness, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ac4862-800f-4317-b6dd-178688052fda/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I am Jason de Luisa, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC and holistic medicine practitioner. I am passionate about combining Western Medicine with holistic approaches to help people live happier, healthier, and fuller lives.
Hello, I am Jason de Luisa, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC and holistic medicine practitioner. I am passionate about combining Western Medicine with holistic approaches to help people live happier, healthier, and fuller lives.
![Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423ec73d-0f61-4c5a-97f3-d7e41d4a478d/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting insurances.
![Photo of Sara Rottman, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8b521d7-2c48-4b01-a5c2-78681ee3d198/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, which means I am a nurse with advanced practice and training in a wide range of mental health services. My approach: You and I will work together to understand your mental health symptoms and their causes. I develop your personal treatment plan that will include strategies for behavioral changes and medication management. Overall, the goal is for me to coach and support you to better mental health.
I am an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, which means I am a nurse with advanced practice and training in a wide range of mental health services. My approach: You and I will work together to understand your mental health symptoms and their causes. I develop your personal treatment plan that will include strategies for behavioral changes and medication management. Overall, the goal is for me to coach and support you to better mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Alcorn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/848ee5a6-824a-4640-98b1-73a87074bc27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Working at Border Counseling Services, LLC Dr. Alcorn is a board-eligible psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, children, and adolescents. Dr. Alcorn brings a high level of excellence to our practice with his experienced psychiatric care. Dr. Alcorn uses a highly professional approach to the care of his patients while maintaining a sense of sincere compassion and caring that allows his patients to feel comfortable and heard.
Working at Border Counseling Services, LLC Dr. Alcorn is a board-eligible psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, children, and adolescents. Dr. Alcorn brings a high level of excellence to our practice with his experienced psychiatric care. Dr. Alcorn uses a highly professional approach to the care of his patients while maintaining a sense of sincere compassion and caring that allows his patients to feel comfortable and heard.
![Photo of Jennifer McCarthy - High Sierra Behavioral Health, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a5416b-19df-4e9d-a50c-49bc081bf7f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
High Sierra Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99518 (Online Only)
Are you a busy adult who is tired of waiting weeks or even months to get an appointment to see your prescriber for a simple refill of psychiatric medication? Are you sick of spending hours sitting in a crowded waiting room while you are missing work or time away from your family or studies? Do you have a therapist you love but who can’t prescribe your medication?
Are you a busy adult who is tired of waiting weeks or even months to get an appointment to see your prescriber for a simple refill of psychiatric medication? Are you sick of spending hours sitting in a crowded waiting room while you are missing work or time away from your family or studies? Do you have a therapist you love but who can’t prescribe your medication?
![Photo of Claudia Miracle, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4d6ea06-1883-4da8-9bb9-6f6960b35b12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claudia C. Miracle earned a master’s from the University of Alaska Anchorage as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner, ANP, and is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC. Claudia takes a reflective approach in her 40 years of experience in health care, shaping her perspective in that ALL humans need to be seen, heard, affirmed, and to feel safe when seeking wellness, psychiatric, and medical health care. Claudia’s philosophical approach in her practice aligns with Socrates in that, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
Claudia C. Miracle earned a master’s from the University of Alaska Anchorage as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner, ANP, and is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC. Claudia takes a reflective approach in her 40 years of experience in health care, shaping her perspective in that ALL humans need to be seen, heard, affirmed, and to feel safe when seeking wellness, psychiatric, and medical health care. Claudia’s philosophical approach in her practice aligns with Socrates in that, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
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![Photo of Heidi Warmbold, APRN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c34483e3-c920-4d55-b5ac-780e77240f33/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Warmbold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503 (Online Only)
I am dual certified as a PMHNP (psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner) and FNP (family nurse practitioner) and have been working in health care for over 20 years with over 15 years as an advanced practice nurse. I have worked in a variety of settings to include acute and outpatient care with all ages as well as with veteran and active duty military service members. I have had exposure and experience working with all ranges of mental health disorders at all stages of severity. I enjoy working with a diverse patient population and am passionate about helping people achieve their personal health goals; both physical and mental.
I am dual certified as a PMHNP (psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner) and FNP (family nurse practitioner) and have been working in health care for over 20 years with over 15 years as an advanced practice nurse. I have worked in a variety of settings to include acute and outpatient care with all ages as well as with veteran and active duty military service members. I have had exposure and experience working with all ranges of mental health disorders at all stages of severity. I enjoy working with a diverse patient population and am passionate about helping people achieve their personal health goals; both physical and mental.
![Photo of Dr. Ana Verzone, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c669170d-a3a7-4b65-b46f-913e804bb080/1/320x400.png)
Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.
Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.
![Photo of Rachad Rayess, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/146987dd-d07d-4ee6-b922-82a962f017f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
My personal and professional experiences have allowed me to understand each patient at an individual level. I grew up and obtained my medical degree abroad, then came to Boston and received my adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School programs. I then worked in Alaska, Lebanon and Boston, MA. My work experience has included inpatient, outpatient, child, adult, Telehealth, urban, and rural psychiatry. Despite differences in diagnoses and presentations, we all share the human experience. Outside of work, my wife and I stay busy raising our three girls. As a family, we like to hike, camp and spend time outdoors.
My personal and professional experiences have allowed me to understand each patient at an individual level. I grew up and obtained my medical degree abroad, then came to Boston and received my adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School programs. I then worked in Alaska, Lebanon and Boston, MA. My work experience has included inpatient, outpatient, child, adult, Telehealth, urban, and rural psychiatry. Despite differences in diagnoses and presentations, we all share the human experience. Outside of work, my wife and I stay busy raising our three girls. As a family, we like to hike, camp and spend time outdoors.
![Photo of Kathy Chastain, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10a48ca9-cd01-4a6c-92ab-f4102c51f82d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you seeking relief from mental health issues and aim to improve your daily functioning and well-being? Are you wanting an appointment today? Do you desire a combination of medication management, therapy, and education to achieve these objectives? Do you have a motivation that stems from a desire for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life? Are you ready to be open, honest, and willing to ask for help in your own healing journey? Then you have found the best fit at Alaska Marriage & Family Therapy Associates with Kathy!
Are you seeking relief from mental health issues and aim to improve your daily functioning and well-being? Are you wanting an appointment today? Do you desire a combination of medication management, therapy, and education to achieve these objectives? Do you have a motivation that stems from a desire for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life? Are you ready to be open, honest, and willing to ask for help in your own healing journey? Then you have found the best fit at Alaska Marriage & Family Therapy Associates with Kathy!
![Photo of Rachael Langerman, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d996b69-c717-4de2-8869-3a4440c31710/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael Langerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
I enjoy helping patients and families navigate mental health issues and become as successful as they can be. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders. I provide gender-affirming care.
I enjoy helping patients and families navigate mental health issues and become as successful as they can be. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders. I provide gender-affirming care.
![Photo of Karen Ni - Mountain & Sea Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d4d1b3e-bdbf-4a66-99f6-0f16a7af911e/2/320x400.png)
Hello, I have treated Alaskans since 2018 when I moved to Kodiak. I have since moved to WA state but am still very much involved with and enjoy working with Alaskan patients. I am a board certified psychiatrist and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Washington after finishing medical school at the University of California, San Diego. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Hello, I have treated Alaskans since 2018 when I moved to Kodiak. I have since moved to WA state but am still very much involved with and enjoy working with Alaskan patients. I am a board certified psychiatrist and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Washington after finishing medical school at the University of California, San Diego. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
![Photo of Julie Yates - Balanced Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9d2970f-122e-4b4c-85d5-a3749ae9295d/1/320x400.png)
Balanced Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99518
I understand that seeking psychiatric help is difficult. If you’re here, you’ve taken the first step! I specialize in a range of services designed to support your mental health journey. First, your privacy is of utmost importance to us. We adhere to all ethical and confidentiality guidelines. Second, I believe in affordable care for everyone. We provide a sliding scale for those who are uninsured or underinsured. Lastly, I am committed to delivering a judgment-free, supportive experience prioritizing your health. I believe the best outcomes are gained through collaboration between the client and provider.
I understand that seeking psychiatric help is difficult. If you’re here, you’ve taken the first step! I specialize in a range of services designed to support your mental health journey. First, your privacy is of utmost importance to us. We adhere to all ethical and confidentiality guidelines. Second, I believe in affordable care for everyone. We provide a sliding scale for those who are uninsured or underinsured. Lastly, I am committed to delivering a judgment-free, supportive experience prioritizing your health. I believe the best outcomes are gained through collaboration between the client and provider.
![Photo of Dr. Celina Egemasi - Open Mind Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1decc99b-f551-489e-a21c-7e3fd79cc668/1/320x400.jpeg)
Open Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501 (Online Only)
At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.
At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.
![Photo of Sharon Smith, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb0de0db-7213-407c-a0e4-6a0cae468797/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503 (Online Only)
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and family medicine primary care. I am deeply committed to helping individuals facing complex mental health challenges. I provide medication management for adults and children. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for personalized, patient-centered care. My goal is to be your trusted partner on the journey to mental well-being, providing support, understanding, and guidance for a fulfilling life. I am committed to being your trusted partner on this transformative journey.
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and family medicine primary care. I am deeply committed to helping individuals facing complex mental health challenges. I provide medication management for adults and children. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for personalized, patient-centered care. My goal is to be your trusted partner on the journey to mental well-being, providing support, understanding, and guidance for a fulfilling life. I am committed to being your trusted partner on this transformative journey.
See more therapy options for Anchorage
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Anchorage, AK
30+
Average cost per session
$287
Psychiatrists in Anchorage, AK who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
94% | Medication Management |
91% | Depression |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
61% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Anchorage, AK see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Anchorage?
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.