Psychiatrists in Leavenworth, WA
![Photo of Bettina Ryan - Beacon Psychiatry, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe3c1322-49d7-46e8-859d-8dfd6f014923/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beacon Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Leavenworth, WA 98826 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric provider, I offer a holistic, therapeutic approach to medication management to individuals from age 6-years and older for various mental health concerns, including mood dysregulation (depression, bipolar); anxiety; neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism); LGBTQIA+ related concerns; trauma; psychosis; and more. I empathize with your mental health and medication experiences and concerns, and I offer support, education, and options related to your unique situation. I come to our sessions informed, willing to listen, learn, and work together to achieve your medication and mental wellness goals.
As a psychiatric provider, I offer a holistic, therapeutic approach to medication management to individuals from age 6-years and older for various mental health concerns, including mood dysregulation (depression, bipolar); anxiety; neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism); LGBTQIA+ related concerns; trauma; psychosis; and more. I empathize with your mental health and medication experiences and concerns, and I offer support, education, and options related to your unique situation. I come to our sessions informed, willing to listen, learn, and work together to achieve your medication and mental wellness goals.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ac76a3b-36cf-4324-b9a6-350d82bfbf09/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
![Photo of Colleen Coyne, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b258006-c1d9-4c49-9dbe-d5c281cf65f5/1/320x400.png)
Colleen Coyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
![Photo of Erica Olivia Brown - Quality Care Psychiatry , MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f6d5ff8-32b0-4e73-ac8f-1f1043bf5305/1/320x400.jpeg)
Quality Care Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I am accepting new clients NOW that are cash pay only. New patient appointments are $250 and follow ups are $125 All appointments are Telemedicine. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full Prescriptive authority in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psycho-education and supportive counseling. My clients have experienced treatment that is client centered, evidence based, and that recognizes the uniqueness of all individuals. I am a compassionate, caring, and empathetic provider.
I am accepting new clients NOW that are cash pay only. New patient appointments are $250 and follow ups are $125 All appointments are Telemedicine. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full Prescriptive authority in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psycho-education and supportive counseling. My clients have experienced treatment that is client centered, evidence based, and that recognizes the uniqueness of all individuals. I am a compassionate, caring, and empathetic provider.
![Photo of Michael Boas, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b7907bc-eece-43ef-bd34-e2cfb10b0557/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Boas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
Taking New Patients! As a DNP, PMHNP I have been trained to work with patients struggling with anxiety, depression, mood, and life transitions. I have searched for innovative ways to meet each patient where they are in their unique mental health journeys. I work to provide treatment that allows for new HOPE and HEALING to patients who are struggling. I offer medication management services, as well as TMS therapy services.
Taking New Patients! As a DNP, PMHNP I have been trained to work with patients struggling with anxiety, depression, mood, and life transitions. I have searched for innovative ways to meet each patient where they are in their unique mental health journeys. I work to provide treatment that allows for new HOPE and HEALING to patients who are struggling. I offer medication management services, as well as TMS therapy services.
![Photo of Dr. Robin J Kang - New Haven Geriatric Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71db886b-67c0-4dc5-9480-6baa34f815c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in geriatric psychiatry. Generally, my patients are older than 55 years of age. My services can be provided through in-person office visits, virtual visits, or by visits to the home. Requests for consultation can be made through my website: www.newhaven.care.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in geriatric psychiatry. Generally, my patients are older than 55 years of age. My services can be provided through in-person office visits, virtual visits, or by visits to the home. Requests for consultation can be made through my website: www.newhaven.care.
![Photo of Jack Keith, MSN, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09e6e5b4-e0ae-4517-8475-490b275e482d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jack Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Congratulations on your steps to mental health! It requires courage to talk to someone about mental health; it also shows how serious you are about making your life better and making the lives of those who love you better. Your mental health doesn’t just affect you - it affects everyone around you – your family, your partner, your co-workers and your friends. My goal is to make sure that each of my patients is heard; I want to work with you to identify what your mental health goals are, and partner with you to achieve your goals.
Congratulations on your steps to mental health! It requires courage to talk to someone about mental health; it also shows how serious you are about making your life better and making the lives of those who love you better. Your mental health doesn’t just affect you - it affects everyone around you – your family, your partner, your co-workers and your friends. My goal is to make sure that each of my patients is heard; I want to work with you to identify what your mental health goals are, and partner with you to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Ellestad, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d0eab16-c671-4ea5-b704-fbf28ae14d19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Ellestad
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
![Photo of LaToyia Neal, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebef75d6-fa78-4f60-b0cb-5526baa94396/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaToyia Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.
![Photo of Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d01a6596-b208-4d5e-ad84-5424bc1654e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
![Photo of Shannon La Douce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb4dda04-cebc-479f-8489-2bb57f7c9e85/2/320x400.png)
Shannon La Douce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
SUMMER 2024 - Appointments available at www.upwellpsych.com. I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - people who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing pressures of the field, a mom juggling parenthood, or the friend who everyone turns to, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
SUMMER 2024 - Appointments available at www.upwellpsych.com. I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - people who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing pressures of the field, a mom juggling parenthood, or the friend who everyone turns to, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
![Photo of Julie Nugent-Carney, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ed4810-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Nugent-Carney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been a registered nurse for over 20 years, helping families cope with change, from childbirth to end-of-life. I provide life coaching for managing life transitions and relationship challenges. I've treated patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, insomnia and other common psychiatric diagnoses. In addition to prescribing medications when necessary, my focus with psychotherapy is to assist people with achieving their goals.
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been a registered nurse for over 20 years, helping families cope with change, from childbirth to end-of-life. I provide life coaching for managing life transitions and relationship challenges. I've treated patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, insomnia and other common psychiatric diagnoses. In addition to prescribing medications when necessary, my focus with psychotherapy is to assist people with achieving their goals.
![Photo of Ashley Sweeney, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ab5e82d-055d-4f85-8119-e1472c665bdf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Sweeney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Ashley Sweeney is a Christian based Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
Ashley Sweeney is a Christian based Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Kadjatou Niangadou, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df32216-5d6e-424f-8ec5-327779c4e11d/2/320x400.png)
Kadjatou Niangadou has over 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible. Kadjatou strives to always find the best evidence-based mental health treatment options for her patients to improve their mental health. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible.
Kadjatou Niangadou has over 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible. Kadjatou strives to always find the best evidence-based mental health treatment options for her patients to improve their mental health. Kadjatou utilizes a client-centered approach that includes working with the client to find the best treatment plan possible.
![Photo of Mary Njogu - Tranquil Minds PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3ad77a-8505-4da8-baee-1fc73270e795/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Mary Njogu. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am empathetic, passionate, and committed to providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive care to individuals ages 18-65. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of South Alabama, specializing in mental health and I am Licensed in Washington State. I know Mental health diagnosis can be daunting but we will walk together by creating your individualized treatment plan and help you have the energy, the motivation, and the joy to face another day.
My name is Mary Njogu. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am empathetic, passionate, and committed to providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive care to individuals ages 18-65. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of South Alabama, specializing in mental health and I am Licensed in Washington State. I know Mental health diagnosis can be daunting but we will walk together by creating your individualized treatment plan and help you have the energy, the motivation, and the joy to face another day.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07a092f3-f23d-4951-9cb4-272b6c3da8da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98408 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f1addd2-bd6f-4092-a3de-04758443a118/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Jamesina Johns, PMHNP, FNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd11bf63-ff2a-46dc-81e3-66085ec9f96d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamesina Johns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, RN
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98082 (Online Only)
Are you tired of providers who don’t make time to listen to you? Providers who don’t even take time to ask how you are truly doing? As a philosophy, I believe that you should have a voice in your psychiatric care. Together you and I will create a plan that is individually tailored and attainable for you. As a compassionate provider, I am the sounding board that silently guides and walks with you. Providing quality care through initial assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy is my passion.
Are you tired of providers who don’t make time to listen to you? Providers who don’t even take time to ask how you are truly doing? As a philosophy, I believe that you should have a voice in your psychiatric care. Together you and I will create a plan that is individually tailored and attainable for you. As a compassionate provider, I am the sounding board that silently guides and walks with you. Providing quality care through initial assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy is my passion.
![Photo of Rozina Lakhani, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d344403-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
See more therapy options for Leavenworth
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Leavenworth, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Leavenworth, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Leavenworth, WA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Leavenworth?
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.