Psychiatrists in Freeland, 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
Freeland, WA 98249 (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 Tevon Dubois, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7f675d7-8c1f-4292-a680-527b2d02eb96/4/320x400.jpeg)
I believe you are the leading expert on yourself. I take the time to get to know you, providing individualized care guided by your values and goals. My practice offers medication management, supportive counseling and psychiatric evaluation drawing on my background in trauma and somatic therapy, mindfulness, and developmental psychology. I am attentive to the many elements that shape mental health, from neurobiology and nutrition to past and present experience. My approach is to go slow, emphasizing safety and acceptance, welcoming the many dimensions of human experience.
I believe you are the leading expert on yourself. I take the time to get to know you, providing individualized care guided by your values and goals. My practice offers medication management, supportive counseling and psychiatric evaluation drawing on my background in trauma and somatic therapy, mindfulness, and developmental psychology. I am attentive to the many elements that shape mental health, from neurobiology and nutrition to past and present experience. My approach is to go slow, emphasizing safety and acceptance, welcoming the many dimensions of human experience.
![Photo of Chanel Ruby Jost, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9aa5733d-95fb-4f45-a517-b13cb409238b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chanel Ruby Jost
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clinton, WA 98236 (Online Only)
I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to adolescents and adults ages 15-50. My goal is to listen to you, hear you, and collaborate with you to find a path towards greater equanimity and vitality.
I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to adolescents and adults ages 15-50. My goal is to listen to you, hear you, and collaborate with you to find a path towards greater equanimity and vitality.
![Photo of Mary Bolles Holder, DNP, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/981df397-c710-4766-8d37-f8d514c43d3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Bolles Holder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Langley, WA 98260 (Online Only)
I have been working in the field of women’s health for more than 30 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and certified nurse midwife. Following my doctoral training in psychiatric mental health I completed a two-year fellowship with a focus on integrative psychiatric treatment options to best meet the needs of my clients. My approach involves looking at all aspects of the person’s health including physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual influences that may be impacting their path to wellness.
I have been working in the field of women’s health for more than 30 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and certified nurse midwife. Following my doctoral training in psychiatric mental health I completed a two-year fellowship with a focus on integrative psychiatric treatment options to best meet the needs of my clients. My approach involves looking at all aspects of the person’s health including physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual influences that may be impacting their path to wellness.
![Photo of Ashley Cerny, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49370575-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley has been in the field of mental health and psychology since 2001. She completed her her masters in nursing at University of Washington in 2011. As an ARNP she has worked in community mental health clinics serving families, chronically mentally ill adults and people struggling with addiction. In 2015 she transitioned into private practice and began her focus on women's mental health and trauma. Ashley works with women coping with anxiety disorders, trauma and complex PTSD, depression, bipolar, postpartum concerns, disordered sleep and ADHD.
Ashley has been in the field of mental health and psychology since 2001. She completed her her masters in nursing at University of Washington in 2011. As an ARNP she has worked in community mental health clinics serving families, chronically mentally ill adults and people struggling with addiction. In 2015 she transitioned into private practice and began her focus on women's mental health and trauma. Ashley works with women coping with anxiety disorders, trauma and complex PTSD, depression, bipolar, postpartum concerns, disordered sleep and ADHD.
![Photo of Paul C Samuelson, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d16d978-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child and adolescent specialist. My practice centers on medication management and brief therapy. It is important to me that I develop a meaningful relationship with my patients so that I can support their personal success. Additionally, this will lead to a long-term connection that supports lasting health and wellness.
I am a child and adolescent specialist. My practice centers on medication management and brief therapy. It is important to me that I develop a meaningful relationship with my patients so that I can support their personal success. Additionally, this will lead to a long-term connection that supports lasting health and wellness.
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dee S Vasquez, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6edbc7a-4bbc-47b8-9f84-4708e398938d/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you or someone you care about is struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, focus and concentration difficulties... Or mood swings and paranoia...I may be able to help you. If you’ve ever felt like no one understands what you’re going through, or that past providers don't truly listen, please reach out. I offer compassion and a sincere desire to help you recover and get back to your goals for your life and yourself, through evidence-based treatment and whole person concept of care. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer psychiatric evaluations & medication management services.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, focus and concentration difficulties... Or mood swings and paranoia...I may be able to help you. If you’ve ever felt like no one understands what you’re going through, or that past providers don't truly listen, please reach out. I offer compassion and a sincere desire to help you recover and get back to your goals for your life and yourself, through evidence-based treatment and whole person concept of care. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer psychiatric evaluations & medication management services.
![Photo of Nicole Ervin, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd4e092c-4620-4be1-89a9-6209f277af7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Ervin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225 (Online Only)
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
![Photo of Lucy Waithaka - Enrich Community Psychiatry PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0613ad4-4178-4a53-97ae-f9f4736fea68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Enrich Community Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
I am a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individual ages 16 and older. I also provide evaluations for bariatric surgery eligible patients. My areas of specialization are mood disorders, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactive disorders (ADHD/ADD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, PTSD, panic attacks, panic disorder and nightmares.
I am a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individual ages 16 and older. I also provide evaluations for bariatric surgery eligible patients. My areas of specialization are mood disorders, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactive disorders (ADHD/ADD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, PTSD, panic attacks, panic disorder and nightmares.
![Photo of Mercy Wainaina, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, MPH, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10cb6b8c-4444-4ce1-a44e-b9d7ea29bdb9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mercy Wainaina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, MPH, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Medication Management and Talk Therapy available! Telehealth & In-person available! I am doctoral prepared and board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). My experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic background. My goal is to advocate for the patients who struggle to be heard or respected and to manage mental health treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
Medication Management and Talk Therapy available! Telehealth & In-person available! I am doctoral prepared and board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). My experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic background. My goal is to advocate for the patients who struggle to be heard or respected and to manage mental health treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
![Photo of Shannon Troy Presler, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d3456fc-2de2-4903-a7cc-678f7cf413c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Troy Presler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I've worked in some facet of psychiatric care for over 16 years. Currently, I see patients in private practice, work weekend days at Harborview Medical Center in the psychiatric ER and teach a graduate course on psychopharmacology.
I've worked in some facet of psychiatric care for over 16 years. Currently, I see patients in private practice, work weekend days at Harborview Medical Center in the psychiatric ER and teach a graduate course on psychopharmacology.
![Photo of Alexandra Scott, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ceb296-1093-44e2-bb35-8ca033f82d92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98154 (Online Only)
As a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my commitment lies in delivering individualized, compassionate, and thorough mental health services. I work collaboratively with clients to address their specific needs and treatment objectives, offering flexibility through both in-person and virtual sessions.
As a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my commitment lies in delivering individualized, compassionate, and thorough mental health services. I work collaboratively with clients to address their specific needs and treatment objectives, offering flexibility through both in-person and virtual sessions.
![Photo of Melissa Osada - Neupathway (Melissa Osada), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fd4d139-ecb6-41dc-a938-416bc267c44f/1/320x400.png)
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
![Photo of Nehemiah Zarate-Rourke, DNP, PMHNPBC, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/622f0404-5208-47d0-b883-96816e7cbeee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nehemiah Zarate-Rourke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with the passion for holistic and collaborative mental health care. Armed with a doctorate degree in nurse practice specializing in psychiatric and mental health care, coupled with extensive experience, I bring in a comprehensive approach. My mission is deeply personal. I believe in guiding individuals on their unique paths to mental well-being, offering personalized care, and unwavering support. Through compassion, innovation, and a commitment to growth, I strive to empower each person to embrace their journey, find resilience, and celebrate every forward step towards a brighter tomorrow.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with the passion for holistic and collaborative mental health care. Armed with a doctorate degree in nurse practice specializing in psychiatric and mental health care, coupled with extensive experience, I bring in a comprehensive approach. My mission is deeply personal. I believe in guiding individuals on their unique paths to mental well-being, offering personalized care, and unwavering support. Through compassion, innovation, and a commitment to growth, I strive to empower each person to embrace their journey, find resilience, and celebrate every forward step towards a brighter tomorrow.
![Photo of Sandy Grewal, ARNP, MA, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d96f697-9d7c-43dc-8f53-9e8a4bab5352/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Sandy Grewal. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Maryville University (St. Louis MO) in 2020. My passion is mental health and serving those in need of mental health services. I approach care by looking at the individual as a whole and not as just a set of symptoms. My mental health services include psychiatric evaluations, psychoeducation, and medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Treatment plans are individualized for each client, 13 years and older. I will always take the time to explain what the best course of action is going to look like.
My name is Sandy Grewal. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Maryville University (St. Louis MO) in 2020. My passion is mental health and serving those in need of mental health services. I approach care by looking at the individual as a whole and not as just a set of symptoms. My mental health services include psychiatric evaluations, psychoeducation, and medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Treatment plans are individualized for each client, 13 years and older. I will always take the time to explain what the best course of action is going to look like.
![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 Robert Brian Noonan, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e621a2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Brian Noonan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a board-certified Psychiatric ARNP with Prescriptive Authority. I have provided psychiatric care for over 15 years, including medication management and therapy. I specialize in Adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use disorders.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric ARNP with Prescriptive Authority. I have provided psychiatric care for over 15 years, including medication management and therapy. I specialize in Adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use disorders.
![Photo of Veronica Sherwood - Integrative Psychiatry with a Holistic Approach, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/966f12dd-d464-4ea8-b010-196a9e075b80/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Psychiatry with a Holistic Approach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, psychoeducation, as well as an evidence-based practice of medication prescribing and management. I enjoy working with individuals throughout the lifespan from ages 5 and up and have experience in helping people with anxiety, ADD/ADHD, depression, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, and PTSD, among other diagnoses as well. I wouldn’t be where I am without those who've helped me along the way. That’s why I love using my passion and skills to make a difference.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, psychoeducation, as well as an evidence-based practice of medication prescribing and management. I enjoy working with individuals throughout the lifespan from ages 5 and up and have experience in helping people with anxiety, ADD/ADHD, depression, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, and PTSD, among other diagnoses as well. I wouldn’t be where I am without those who've helped me along the way. That’s why I love using my passion and skills to make a difference.
My ideal patient is someone who is actively interested in seeking treatment for their conditions and open to all treatment modalities including medications. Working together we can achieve better results.
My ideal patient is someone who is actively interested in seeking treatment for their conditions and open to all treatment modalities including medications. Working together we can achieve better results.
See more therapy options for Freeland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Freeland, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Freeland, 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 Freeland, WA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Freeland?
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.