Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA
![Photo of Archiel Buagas-Kintanar - AMOMA , DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b63753cc-2589-4068-b808-28971c18d700/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide virtual/telehealth mental health services, particularly medication management. The appointments are provided via a live, secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform. With this platform, I can provide health care in the comfort and privacy of your own home with just a click of a button. I am committed in providing individualized care to patients based on their specific needs and expectations. I can help you make informed decisions regarding medication treatment and symptom management.
I provide virtual/telehealth mental health services, particularly medication management. The appointments are provided via a live, secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform. With this platform, I can provide health care in the comfort and privacy of your own home with just a click of a button. I am committed in providing individualized care to patients based on their specific needs and expectations. I can help you make informed decisions regarding medication treatment and symptom management.
![Photo of Oyeronke Ajiboye-Lala, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dff4e4f0-1c6c-4284-a535-cd6c92178b10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oyeronke Ajiboye-Lala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Do you feel exhausted, alone, anxious, depressed, sad, empty, hopeless, guilty, and afraid? Maybe you feel like you are not living your best life. These feelings are distracting you from being the best version of yourself.
Do you feel exhausted, alone, anxious, depressed, sad, empty, hopeless, guilty, and afraid? Maybe you feel like you are not living your best life. These feelings are distracting you from being the best version of yourself.
![Photo of Rebecca Merritt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bf87936-3fda-4340-a65f-521ce23c91d0/1/320x400.png)
Every human being is unique, with their own identity, history, heritage, and set of individual life circumstances. Each person is deserving of being heard with acceptance, kindness, and respect. One's mental health relates directly to these life factors as well as to one's physical and spiritual well-being. As a psychiatrist, I consider myself to be just one part in a person's journey back to health, and I look forward to working with you.
Every human being is unique, with their own identity, history, heritage, and set of individual life circumstances. Each person is deserving of being heard with acceptance, kindness, and respect. One's mental health relates directly to these life factors as well as to one's physical and spiritual well-being. As a psychiatrist, I consider myself to be just one part in a person's journey back to health, and I look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Christian Michael Meyer, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9503538d-ef90-4358-8a91-6917c1684019/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christian Michael Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Life is a journey, and no journey is without obstacles, challenges, and tragedies. Christian is a provider who will partner with you on your journey, helping you take responsibility for your care and persevere through life's difficulties. The hike of life is often strenuous. Christian has the skills and tools to help you work through the challenges of the past and prepare for the trek ahead with confidence, perseverance, and joy.
Life is a journey, and no journey is without obstacles, challenges, and tragedies. Christian is a provider who will partner with you on your journey, helping you take responsibility for your care and persevere through life's difficulties. The hike of life is often strenuous. Christian has the skills and tools to help you work through the challenges of the past and prepare for the trek ahead with confidence, perseverance, and joy.
![Photo of Nancy Masters, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31d906bb-c93c-4a3f-a8c7-6297fe527311/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204 (Online Only)
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 16-64 in Oregon and Washington.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 16-64 in Oregon and Washington.
![Photo of Megan Foster, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e93bb6ec-d7fc-424b-8f3d-750d6c8bdc2a/1/320x400.png)
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and medication management tailored to individuals coping with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and PTSD. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning. I work to provide treatment that allows for new hope and healing to patients who are struggling. Please note that I am not accepting Medicaid Insurance for medication management.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and medication management tailored to individuals coping with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and PTSD. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning. I work to provide treatment that allows for new hope and healing to patients who are struggling. Please note that I am not accepting Medicaid Insurance for medication management.
![Photo of Folasade Olayiwole - Shepherd Spring Psychiatry and Therapy Services, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7195778-3e67-438f-b50b-00dd7cc03305/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shepherd Spring Psychiatry and Therapy Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I am a doctoral-prepared and board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner and have worked in the mental health field for the past eight years. I have been a nurse for Twelve years. I have my doctorate from Texas Women's University Dallas, Texas, and my master’s and bachelor’s from the University of Texas Arlington, Texas. I currently see patients in TX, WA, OR, and DE.
I am a doctoral-prepared and board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner and have worked in the mental health field for the past eight years. I have been a nurse for Twelve years. I have my doctorate from Texas Women's University Dallas, Texas, and my master’s and bachelor’s from the University of Texas Arlington, Texas. I currently see patients in TX, WA, OR, and DE.
![Photo of Jacqueline Grace Kramlich, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5593b775-084f-4fa8-8c7d-ce2fea9a778d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Grace Kramlich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
The child and adolescent years are filled with joy, wonder, and excitement. They can also be filled with worry, confusion, and frustration. We want our children to be equipped to face challenges, to enjoy meaningful relationships, and to feel confident in who they are. This looks different for each individual. But when psychiatric symptoms get in the way of these important developmental milestones, I can help.
The child and adolescent years are filled with joy, wonder, and excitement. They can also be filled with worry, confusion, and frustration. We want our children to be equipped to face challenges, to enjoy meaningful relationships, and to feel confident in who they are. This looks different for each individual. But when psychiatric symptoms get in the way of these important developmental milestones, I can help.
![Photo of Dmitry Tverskoy - Restful Mind Mental Health, MSN , APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5e3e72e-ce8e-4f27-bded-35ddeeb1baf1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Restful Mind Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Allow me to provide you with experienced knowledgeable care in a friendly comfortable setting. As your partner in your mental health journey I can help you achieve a more peaceful, productive, enjoyable life with up to date treatments and the latest evidence based practice. Using a compassionate, and non judgmental approach creates a safe space to delve into your most difficult issues and realize sustained improvement of symptoms.
Allow me to provide you with experienced knowledgeable care in a friendly comfortable setting. As your partner in your mental health journey I can help you achieve a more peaceful, productive, enjoyable life with up to date treatments and the latest evidence based practice. Using a compassionate, and non judgmental approach creates a safe space to delve into your most difficult issues and realize sustained improvement of symptoms.
![Photo of Jeffrey Schack, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbdc6a56-1e66-4e55-b160-7a49afdc6957/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey is a graduate of The Chicago Medical School and completed his psychiatry residency from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. He believes in a cognitive behavioral orientation and provides pharmacotherapy or individual psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. He works with patients 18 years or older and has experience treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, medical conditions, OCD, post partum depression, PTSD and sleep disorders. In his spare time, he enjoys music, gardening and the outdoors.
Jeffrey is a graduate of The Chicago Medical School and completed his psychiatry residency from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. He believes in a cognitive behavioral orientation and provides pharmacotherapy or individual psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. He works with patients 18 years or older and has experience treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, medical conditions, OCD, post partum depression, PTSD and sleep disorders. In his spare time, he enjoys music, gardening and the outdoors.
![Photo of Archiel Buagas-Kintanar - AMOMA, ARNP, PMHNP, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c2488b1-162e-48e4-ab03-20b68ab4f686/1/320x400.jpeg)
AMOMA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204
I provide virtual/telehealth mental health services, particularly medication management.The appointments are provided via a live, secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform. With this platform, I can provide health care in the comfort and privacy of your own home with just a click of a button.I am committed in providing individualized care to patients based on their specific needs and expectations.I can help you make informed decisions regarding medication treatment and symptom management.
I provide virtual/telehealth mental health services, particularly medication management.The appointments are provided via a live, secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform. With this platform, I can provide health care in the comfort and privacy of your own home with just a click of a button.I am committed in providing individualized care to patients based on their specific needs and expectations.I can help you make informed decisions regarding medication treatment and symptom management.
15 Second Videos
Nancy Masters
Madeline Jacobs
Funmilola (Lola) Sijuade
Dominique Sanders
Emily Ketchel @ Acorn Psychiatry
Ronil Shah
Alecia White
Amber Pfeiffer
Kelsey Martell - Mountain Psychiatry
Steven K Elrod
Mental Health For All Services
Jack Mkroyan
Leah Haddad
Jonathan Allotey
Marco Rudas-Garcia
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Jade Goodloe
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Udo Chukwuocha
Toni Williams
Ross Brown
Anna Long
Olivier Djoumessi
Sommer Wright At Skybridge Counseling And Psychiatry
Fatima Omar
Olivier Djoumessi
Morna Agoki- Tween, Teen & Young Adult Psychiatry
Daniel Bristow
Heather Sanudo
Robert Garrard
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Victoria Abolarin
Bella Mente PLLC
Pulcharia Thompson
Megan Sapp
Jackline Auka Pmhnp (Accepting New Clients- Same Day Appointment )
![Photo of Stacey Garland, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3133c778-7112-4a89-970c-d3e254297707/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Garland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
Hello! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and am here to assist you with your mental wellness journey. I believe every person's journey is unique, and we will work closely together to improve yours. I believe that clients should be actively involved in making decisions that directly affect their mental wellness. I have 25 years of experience in the healthcare field as a registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, including both outpatient and inpatient client care. I offer diagnostic, medication management, and genetic testing for medication metabolism.
Hello! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and am here to assist you with your mental wellness journey. I believe every person's journey is unique, and we will work closely together to improve yours. I believe that clients should be actively involved in making decisions that directly affect their mental wellness. I have 25 years of experience in the healthcare field as a registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, including both outpatient and inpatient client care. I offer diagnostic, medication management, and genetic testing for medication metabolism.
PsyKey Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients! As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to work together to unlock and achieve the best version of yourself. I will provide comprehensive, empathic care from diagnosis to medication management. I use brief psychotherapy in session when obstacles arise hindering your journey. I have experience with patients that includes both inpatient and outpatient settings and I treat age populations from 18 and up.
I am currently accepting new patients! As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to work together to unlock and achieve the best version of yourself. I will provide comprehensive, empathic care from diagnosis to medication management. I use brief psychotherapy in session when obstacles arise hindering your journey. I have experience with patients that includes both inpatient and outpatient settings and I treat age populations from 18 and up.
![Photo of Reuben Nyaachi Okemwa - Renah Psychiatry services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3620889c-32b1-44b8-85ad-dbb37920fc33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Renah Psychiatry services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99208 (Online Only)
Renah Psychiatry proudly offers top-tier virtual mental health care services, specializing in medication management. Our secure, HIPAA-compliant platform ensures expert care from the comfort and privacy of your home. Our commitment to individualized patient care means that each client receives personalized attention and treatment. We take the time to understand your unique needs and expectations, working closely with you to make informed decisions regarding medication treatment and symptom management. Our holistic approach addresses psychological, biological, developmental, and social aspects, empowering you to take control of your
Renah Psychiatry proudly offers top-tier virtual mental health care services, specializing in medication management. Our secure, HIPAA-compliant platform ensures expert care from the comfort and privacy of your home. Our commitment to individualized patient care means that each client receives personalized attention and treatment. We take the time to understand your unique needs and expectations, working closely with you to make informed decisions regarding medication treatment and symptom management. Our holistic approach addresses psychological, biological, developmental, and social aspects, empowering you to take control of your
![Photo of Jenny Shaw, PMHNP, -BC, ARNP, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1dc6d01-b1e1-46b5-bd05-9940ae392b6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, ARNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204
Hi, my name is Jenny Shaw. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience. I enjoy collaborating with clients across the lifespan providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management. I look forward to working with you!
Hi, my name is Jenny Shaw. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience. I enjoy collaborating with clients across the lifespan providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management. I look forward to working with you!
![Photo of Henry Adewole Ibitokun, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8244036-7331-49c4-922c-c6bef972bab8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Henry Adewole Ibitokun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Henry Ibitokun is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about improving mental health and well-being. With over a decade's worth of experience in the field, Nurse practitioner Henry has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorders, and more. Book your Psych evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy sessions at www.hoclinical.com Committed to providing personalized care, Nurse practitioner Henry takes the time to listen to each patient's unique concerns and collaborates closely.
Henry Ibitokun is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about improving mental health and well-being. With over a decade's worth of experience in the field, Nurse practitioner Henry has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorders, and more. Book your Psych evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy sessions at www.hoclinical.com Committed to providing personalized care, Nurse practitioner Henry takes the time to listen to each patient's unique concerns and collaborates closely.
![Photo of Nicholas Goodwin, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4844c733-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Goodwin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99205
Not accepting new clients
At Goodwin Health Cafe we offer Intranasal Esketamine (Spravato) and Transcranial Magenetic Stimulation (TMS), We accept most insurances, but coverage can vary based off of the specific service. We are not currently accepting new clients for medication management or therapy.
At Goodwin Health Cafe we offer Intranasal Esketamine (Spravato) and Transcranial Magenetic Stimulation (TMS), We accept most insurances, but coverage can vary based off of the specific service. We are not currently accepting new clients for medication management or therapy.
![Photo of Tanya Birchler, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfb3f17b-306f-4134-afd1-6cad938467d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tanya Birchler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed or discouraged trying to find mental health treatment? Are you thinking about psychiatric medication, but it scares you and you don’t know where to start? Or maybe you've had past negative experiences with medication or providers? Seeking out mental health treatment can feel daunting, on top of the struggles you’re already experiencing. You want a psychiatric provider you "click" with and can trust -- someone to be your friendly and informed guide as you explore your options. Most of all, you want to feel better.
Do you feel overwhelmed or discouraged trying to find mental health treatment? Are you thinking about psychiatric medication, but it scares you and you don’t know where to start? Or maybe you've had past negative experiences with medication or providers? Seeking out mental health treatment can feel daunting, on top of the struggles you’re already experiencing. You want a psychiatric provider you "click" with and can trust -- someone to be your friendly and informed guide as you explore your options. Most of all, you want to feel better.
![Photo of Favor Osakwe - Holistic Behavioral Health, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96b8369e-7492-4194-a256-dba520478a7e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204
At Holistic Behavioral Health, I embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. As a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring over 20 years of experience in delivering high-quality care. My focus is on providing holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering lasting improvement. With a diverse background in both in-patient and out-patient settings, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
At Holistic Behavioral Health, I embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. As a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring over 20 years of experience in delivering high-quality care. My focus is on providing holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering lasting improvement. With a diverse background in both in-patient and out-patient settings, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
![Photo of Elita Wong - Elita Wong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b61b3dec-14a7-45ed-9fe1-a84015bbcbec/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elita Wong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.
Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.
See more therapy options for Spokane
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Medication Management |
78% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Spokane?
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.