Psychiatrists in Coupeville, WA
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56c87dbd-9f49-4aba-9874-6c0753e373bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Coupeville, WA 98239 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Maria Cecilia Dulay, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b7c8bcf-41fa-4e43-8445-446177200acf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Cecilia Dulay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Oak Harbor, WA 98277 (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! I am a nurse practitioner who has dedicated my practice to caring for clients with psychiatric mental health needs. I have extensive training in various psychiatric settings and ensures that each patient I see, leaves feeling heard, understood and respected. I believe that providing care isn’t just about treating symptoms, but also showing kindness along the way, and treating each client as an individual. I am a passionate healthcare provider committed to cultivating an atmosphere of comfort and education for my patients.
Now accepting new clients! I am a nurse practitioner who has dedicated my practice to caring for clients with psychiatric mental health needs. I have extensive training in various psychiatric settings and ensures that each patient I see, leaves feeling heard, understood and respected. I believe that providing care isn’t just about treating symptoms, but also showing kindness along the way, and treating each client as an individual. I am a passionate healthcare provider committed to cultivating an atmosphere of comfort and education for my patients.
![Photo of Paul Kariuki - Apex Behavioral Health Services,PLLC, APRN, MSN, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/567a4c64-3793-41c2-81c6-983dc070ca64/3/320x400.jpeg)
Apex Behavioral Health Services,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oak Harbor, WA 98277 (Online Only)
Please click on the website link to request an appointment. My name is Paul Kariuki, MSN PMHNP-BC. I graduated from the University of Texas Arlington and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am delighted to serve patients from preteen to older adults. I am experienced in treating patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, insomnia, substance use disorders among other disorders. I work closely with my patients to finding the best evidence based medication and psychotherapy modalities.
Please click on the website link to request an appointment. My name is Paul Kariuki, MSN PMHNP-BC. I graduated from the University of Texas Arlington and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am delighted to serve patients from preteen to older adults. I am experienced in treating patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, insomnia, substance use disorders among other disorders. I work closely with my patients to finding the best evidence based medication and psychotherapy modalities.
![Photo of Hollye Hahn, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26bd9c38-32ad-440e-a3b3-96812b3eb787/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hollye Hahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
My mission is the offering of compassion and professional support to those struggling on the inside. I welcome clients seeking help with issues related to stress, depression, anxiety, attention and focus, mood swings, past trauma, or those who are facing other types of unsettling feelings or inward experiences. I offer a safe and secure space to speak freely and voice private thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and appreciate the uniqueness of each person’s mental, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and physical needs.
My mission is the offering of compassion and professional support to those struggling on the inside. I welcome clients seeking help with issues related to stress, depression, anxiety, attention and focus, mood swings, past trauma, or those who are facing other types of unsettling feelings or inward experiences. I offer a safe and secure space to speak freely and voice private thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and appreciate the uniqueness of each person’s mental, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and physical needs.
I had the honor of being trained by Francine Shapiro, originator of EMDR Psychotherapy. I work with individuals across the life span with a multitude of mental health challenges such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Bereavement and mourning, Chronic Pain, ADHD, Divorce etc.
I had the honor of being trained by Francine Shapiro, originator of EMDR Psychotherapy. I work with individuals across the life span with a multitude of mental health challenges such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Bereavement and mourning, Chronic Pain, ADHD, Divorce etc.
![Photo of April JoAnn Matzenbacher, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d60910f6-9aef-4c6b-b107-dfb024ea6578/1/320x400.png)
April JoAnn Matzenbacher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
The greatest lesson that I have received in my role as a healthcare professional is that most human suffering is rooted in emotional and cognitive difficulty. These challenges often stem from pain or trauma, typically early in our development. The mind is an organ like any other in the body; as such, it needs care and healing from time to time! Often, the most impactful modality one can offer is that of human empathy and kindness. My fervent hope is to assist those who suffer to attain strength, resiliency, and inner peace.
The greatest lesson that I have received in my role as a healthcare professional is that most human suffering is rooted in emotional and cognitive difficulty. These challenges often stem from pain or trauma, typically early in our development. The mind is an organ like any other in the body; as such, it needs care and healing from time to time! Often, the most impactful modality one can offer is that of human empathy and kindness. My fervent hope is to assist those who suffer to attain strength, resiliency, and inner peace.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Kory Simonsen, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2e82683-4f03-439b-91d5-1ea0d6b0bef5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kory Simonsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: “If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where we stand on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations.
Accepting New Clients: “If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where we stand on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations.
![Photo of Cristina Arteaga - Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1776660d-00e1-4587-82f9-9e916f1a517b/5/320x400.png)
Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
At Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health we commit to ensuring that nobody faces their mental health challenges alone. We are a group of expert adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrists who provide personalized psychiatric care in a compassionate and thorough manner specific to your unique needs. This collaborative approach empowers you to take the lead in your journey to wellness with our unwavering support and guidance.
At Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health we commit to ensuring that nobody faces their mental health challenges alone. We are a group of expert adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrists who provide personalized psychiatric care in a compassionate and thorough manner specific to your unique needs. This collaborative approach empowers you to take the lead in your journey to wellness with our unwavering support and guidance.
![Photo of Darnae Lovett, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5829efa-b816-4e6d-b4df-1f214932082f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darnae Lovett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166 (Online Only)
Are you ready to take control and thrive? If so you are in the right place! Darnae Lovett APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina and then earned her Master of Science degree from South University. Darnae then received her Post Master certificate in Psychiatric Health from Valdosta State University. She holds two national board certifications with the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners(AANP) as a Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner
Are you ready to take control and thrive? If so you are in the right place! Darnae Lovett APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina and then earned her Master of Science degree from South University. Darnae then received her Post Master certificate in Psychiatric Health from Valdosta State University. She holds two national board certifications with the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners(AANP) as a Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse practitioner
![Photo of Micah Stansfield-Duvall - Traverse Therapy Services, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ca73434-f69b-4ace-ad48-cb8ce11cbf0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Traverse Therapy Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
We are accepting new clients! Hello my name is Micah Stansfield-Duvall Recognizing the impact of addiction and mental illness on individuals, I have been actively involved in mental health an addiction treatment programs aimed at recovery and reducing stigma. I employ evidence-based practices to help patients overcome substance use disorders and achieve long-term sobriety. I work closely with patients to stabilize and maintain their mental health related issues.
We are accepting new clients! Hello my name is Micah Stansfield-Duvall Recognizing the impact of addiction and mental illness on individuals, I have been actively involved in mental health an addiction treatment programs aimed at recovery and reducing stigma. I employ evidence-based practices to help patients overcome substance use disorders and achieve long-term sobriety. I work closely with patients to stabilize and maintain their mental health related issues.
![Photo of Kate Hume, Kate Hume, MA, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/733e3cab-3f9d-470d-aadb-f67fbf6ab05b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Hume
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Kate Hume, MA, MSN, ARNP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Thanks for reaching out for assistance. I have extensive training in ADHD and mood disorders. I offer a comprehensive exam, a full explanation of psychiatric conditions, and many types of approaches to address these conditions. I prescribe psychiatric medications, psychotherapy, and when requested, alternative medical treatment for psychiatric illness.
Thanks for reaching out for assistance. I have extensive training in ADHD and mood disorders. I offer a comprehensive exam, a full explanation of psychiatric conditions, and many types of approaches to address these conditions. I prescribe psychiatric medications, psychotherapy, and when requested, alternative medical treatment for psychiatric illness.
![Photo of Sean Dunn - ATC Psychiatry, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, BA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed5ec111-bcf4-4797-8509-fa277cb48736/3/320x400.jpeg)
ATC Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, BA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
*IMMEDIATE, SAME-WEEK TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** 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. Reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com and let's get started!
*IMMEDIATE, SAME-WEEK TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** 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. Reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com and let's get started!
![Photo of Larisa Sopka, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce537ddc-f079-474f-88ec-4cb2535f5dac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larisa Sopka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
My primary areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, depression, and more. I heavily lean on mindfulness, spirituality, mind-body connection, creativity, and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psycho-education, humanistic approach, and solution-focused therapy. Additionally, I use medication management to help my patients. In deciding the best medications, I utilize psychotropic pharmocogenomic testing, a genetic test that shows how your genes may affect medication outcomes.
My primary areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, depression, and more. I heavily lean on mindfulness, spirituality, mind-body connection, creativity, and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psycho-education, humanistic approach, and solution-focused therapy. Additionally, I use medication management to help my patients. In deciding the best medications, I utilize psychotropic pharmocogenomic testing, a genetic test that shows how your genes may affect medication outcomes.
![Photo of Jennifer A Rubio, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d35f74e5-4cf7-42c7-afa4-75ef0f7343b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer A Rubio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), licensed as an ARNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Washington. I am currently accepting adult and pediatric patients. I typically focus my practice on older children and adolescents ages 8-20. I specialize in psychiatric assessments and diagnostics in tandem with psychiatric medication management while providing brief psychotherapy and psycho-education to patients and their families.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), licensed as an ARNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Washington. I am currently accepting adult and pediatric patients. I typically focus my practice on older children and adolescents ages 8-20. I specialize in psychiatric assessments and diagnostics in tandem with psychiatric medication management while providing brief psychotherapy and psycho-education to patients and their families.
![Photo of Sarah Applegate, MDiv, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f42f1a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Applegate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MDiv, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.
![Photo of Edema Alfred Obaseki, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/813f2fc0-4602-4180-8313-1f280c056fa6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edema Alfred Obaseki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
My ideal clients are those struggling with mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Weight issues or trauma, who feel overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings and seek tools to manage emotions and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and leading a more balanced, meaningful life. As a mental health provider, I can offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment, where they can feel heard and understood, and combine medication with supportive therapy to help them reclaim their lives.
My ideal clients are those struggling with mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Weight issues or trauma, who feel overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings and seek tools to manage emotions and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and leading a more balanced, meaningful life. As a mental health provider, I can offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment, where they can feel heard and understood, and combine medication with supportive therapy to help them reclaim their lives.
![Photo of Justin Maduobi, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c36de8dc-16a4-4ab1-a644-e23e57f53f5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Maduobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Currently accepting new clients. I provide a holistic care to adolescents and adults from 13 years old and above with depression, anxiety, trauma disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorder, ADHD and other mental health issues. My main goal here is to assess thoroughly, diagnose and manage your mental health by creating a genuine relationship as we get to know each other. Part of my practice structure is to address things in life that might affect your lifestyle such as sleep, diet and social life. I provide some psychotherapy along with medication management to help balance life and improve your mental health.
Currently accepting new clients. I provide a holistic care to adolescents and adults from 13 years old and above with depression, anxiety, trauma disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorder, ADHD and other mental health issues. My main goal here is to assess thoroughly, diagnose and manage your mental health by creating a genuine relationship as we get to know each other. Part of my practice structure is to address things in life that might affect your lifestyle such as sleep, diet and social life. I provide some psychotherapy along with medication management to help balance life and improve your mental health.
![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 Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin - Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin | TMS, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491b51a1-fcc2-465e-bcff-68ada242190a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin | TMS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
![Photo of Jacqueline Kimani - Mind Focused PMHNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73f141e2-d8d7-4e73-961c-9c6d8d8fc945/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Focused PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
My Name is Jacqueline Kimani. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a master's degree in nursing from Walden University. I adhere to the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics to provide compassionate and respectful care, advocate for patients' rights and well-being, and maintain confidentiality. Integrity, accountability, and ethical practice are foundational principles that guide my clinical decisions and interactions with my patients.
My Name is Jacqueline Kimani. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I hold a master's degree in nursing from Walden University. I adhere to the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics to provide compassionate and respectful care, advocate for patients' rights and well-being, and maintain confidentiality. Integrity, accountability, and ethical practice are foundational principles that guide my clinical decisions and interactions with my patients.
See more therapy options for Coupeville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Coupeville, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Coupeville, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Parenting |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Coupeville, WA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Coupeville?
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.