Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bcad635-5595-4366-8316-97be65751834/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Eucheria Mbata - Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/721b796b-c2e9-401c-8e03-1b8368c2de44/3/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102 (Online Only)
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
![Photo of Amy Renee, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/890ddd01-2160-45af-985e-3e5bff11abf2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Renee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
![Photo of Amy Brumbaugh, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d58736a5-574b-4bd3-9d7b-4f034a2aa1e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Brumbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
My clients come from different backgrounds and walks of life, all seeking support for their emotional well-being and mental balance. I specialize in helping those dealing with mood disorders and anxiety, offering a tailored approach to address their unique struggles (including medication management, supplements & exercise programs, and therapy options). My ideal client is someone who's ready to work together on this journey towards better mental health, with trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to positive change.
My clients come from different backgrounds and walks of life, all seeking support for their emotional well-being and mental balance. I specialize in helping those dealing with mood disorders and anxiety, offering a tailored approach to address their unique struggles (including medication management, supplements & exercise programs, and therapy options). My ideal client is someone who's ready to work together on this journey towards better mental health, with trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to positive change.
![Photo of Susi Jones, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c891216-5278-42a7-9643-b69444ba9a36/2/320x400.jpeg)
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
![Photo of Jesse Adams - SeattleNTC - Tacoma Bellevue Bellingham Seattle, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c64ac097-f2b7-4c47-8c86-9e832c68efef/3/320x400.jpeg)
SeattleNTC - Tacoma Bellevue Bellingham Seattle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
We are not currently accepting new patients for medication management. When depression has you ready to give up, you need doctors who won't. SeattleNTC - www.seattlentc.com - is a specialty clinic offering compassionate, expert care for severe depression and other hard-to-treat psychiatric conditions throughout the Puget Sound region. We specialize in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), esketamine (Spravato), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and other interventions for debilitating depression that has not improved with medications and psychotherapy.
We are not currently accepting new patients for medication management. When depression has you ready to give up, you need doctors who won't. SeattleNTC - www.seattlentc.com - is a specialty clinic offering compassionate, expert care for severe depression and other hard-to-treat psychiatric conditions throughout the Puget Sound region. We specialize in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), esketamine (Spravato), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and other interventions for debilitating depression that has not improved with medications and psychotherapy.
I am honored to have the opportunity to work with individuals who grapple with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My journey in this field has been driven by a deep passion for helping others navigate the complexities of their mental health. I use medications, alternative treatments, psychotherapy and nutrition.
I am honored to have the opportunity to work with individuals who grapple with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My journey in this field has been driven by a deep passion for helping others navigate the complexities of their mental health. I use medications, alternative treatments, psychotherapy and nutrition.
![Photo of Sean Dunn, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, BA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fd5f5fc-0701-4202-8e22-da497666d483/2/320x400.jpeg)
I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Learn more and reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com
I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Learn more and reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com
![Photo of Dao Nguyen, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/597125e6-2a65-439d-af8f-7dbab4b6516c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dao Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Dao and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Dao and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Robyn Bennetts, MN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef65c5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robyn Bennetts
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98168 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority for individuals of all ages. I have 18 years of experience in a variety of settings. I provide medication management with brief supportive therapy. My goal is to help people at all stages of development achieve their greatest potential. It is my strong belief that biology, psychology, and social circumstances shape our experiences and how we react to our environment.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority for individuals of all ages. I have 18 years of experience in a variety of settings. I provide medication management with brief supportive therapy. My goal is to help people at all stages of development achieve their greatest potential. It is my strong belief that biology, psychology, and social circumstances shape our experiences and how we react to our environment.
![Photo of Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d01a6596-b208-4d5e-ad84-5424bc1654e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
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![Photo of Dr. Daniel Daylamani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ded5a6c6-22b5-415c-84c7-e050b4e009d0/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
![Photo of George H. Glade, MC, MN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0eacca4-6046-423b-9bda-4fe95360ddc2/2/320x400.png)
I am currently accepting new clients. Most problems have a solution, most illnesses are treatable. Change begins with a first step toward doing things differently than you have done them before. I believe the purpose of therapy is ultimately not to be in therapy but to aquire new skills to support positive change. I am not a therapist who will sit back quietly, nod and give you an occassional 'Uh-huh'. I have Master's degrees in both Counseling and Nursing. I work in the ER at Harborview, at my office practice, and with the psychiatric needs of older adults. I come from an integrative medicine perspective when I prescribe med.s
I am currently accepting new clients. Most problems have a solution, most illnesses are treatable. Change begins with a first step toward doing things differently than you have done them before. I believe the purpose of therapy is ultimately not to be in therapy but to aquire new skills to support positive change. I am not a therapist who will sit back quietly, nod and give you an occassional 'Uh-huh'. I have Master's degrees in both Counseling and Nursing. I work in the ER at Harborview, at my office practice, and with the psychiatric needs of older adults. I come from an integrative medicine perspective when I prescribe med.s
![Photo of Carrie Wu, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f3407c-f6b8-4368-a968-fc73f8083279/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Grace Martin, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/936d82c3-d792-48b9-8e7f-6a1c69693de2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
![Photo of Ashley Harmon - Ashley Harmon, M.D. PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f32767-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Harmon, M.D. PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
Not accepting new clients
Symptoms and diagnoses do not define who we are. Mental health is more than symptom reduction, and there are mulitple ways of understanding their powerful impact on our lives. Addressing root causes leads to mental health. Through connection, curiosity, and collaboration, we create practical treatment plans based on your lived experience, neurobiology, and personal mental health goals. Increasing self-awareness and compassion empowers and promotes resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. I am honored to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Symptoms and diagnoses do not define who we are. Mental health is more than symptom reduction, and there are mulitple ways of understanding their powerful impact on our lives. Addressing root causes leads to mental health. Through connection, curiosity, and collaboration, we create practical treatment plans based on your lived experience, neurobiology, and personal mental health goals. Increasing self-awareness and compassion empowers and promotes resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. I am honored to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
![Photo of Lynn-Marie Peashka, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5d73f05-9733-45d6-92d3-af69e03138c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn-Marie Peashka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Lynn-Marie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in Washington State University and work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Lynn-Marie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in Washington State University and work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Eilly Yang, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/240a7bff-2768-415d-b732-0df232bfa7c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eilly Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Rachel Jacks - Golden Mental Health PLLC, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/396f894b-61f5-4d13-bce4-9260c22a092b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Golden Mental Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Hello! Golden Mental Health is the practice of Rachel Jacks, ARNP. I have worked in the mental health field over 10 years in a variety of settings. I've spent the past several years working in community mental health serving the people with the greatest needs. I believe that my clients are the most important sources of truth about themselves. This means that we'll dig deep when asking questions about your behavior and symptoms to get to the root of your issues. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment, in which decisions are shared between the client and myself.
Hello! Golden Mental Health is the practice of Rachel Jacks, ARNP. I have worked in the mental health field over 10 years in a variety of settings. I've spent the past several years working in community mental health serving the people with the greatest needs. I believe that my clients are the most important sources of truth about themselves. This means that we'll dig deep when asking questions about your behavior and symptoms to get to the root of your issues. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment, in which decisions are shared between the client and myself.
![Photo of Davonna Wilson - Balance Psychiatric Services, DNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5de26141-b11b-4551-9efd-a941a3b16dc5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144 (Online Only)
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
84% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
64% | Premera Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.