Psychiatrists in Olalla, WA
![Photo of Kate Donahue, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/858d9580-6f17-4e2c-9a9d-2e4a80768c1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kim Young-Oak - Front Street Clinic | TMS Treatment Center, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbeeb591-f52f-4011-a10d-b52be9db8686/1/320x400.png)
Front Street Clinic has over 10 years experience offering NeuroStar TMS Advanced Therapy (transcranial magnetic stimulation). TMS Therapy is an FDA-cleared treatment for patients with major depression who have not benefited from antidepressant medications.
Front Street Clinic has over 10 years experience offering NeuroStar TMS Advanced Therapy (transcranial magnetic stimulation). TMS Therapy is an FDA-cleared treatment for patients with major depression who have not benefited from antidepressant medications.
![Photo of Youngoak Kim Pryor, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e58fa2d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Youngoak Kim Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
![Photo of Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b40c25-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
![Photo of Vivian Kisanga - Elevate Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82c677fb-d8fa-4f24-bd24-22f15d51dc8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elevate Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367
As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated in providing compassionate and holistic care, I bring a wealth of expertise in treating a spectrum of mental health conditions, ranging from anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction and others. My journey has been driven by a profound commitment to empowering individuals to navigate their mental health challenges with dignity and resilience. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and empathy, creating a safe space where patients feel empowered to share their struggles and aspirations openly.
As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated in providing compassionate and holistic care, I bring a wealth of expertise in treating a spectrum of mental health conditions, ranging from anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction and others. My journey has been driven by a profound commitment to empowering individuals to navigate their mental health challenges with dignity and resilience. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and empathy, creating a safe space where patients feel empowered to share their struggles and aspirations openly.
![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
Port Orchard, WA 98366
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 Kelly Lawson - Bainbridge Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC, DNP , ARNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22bd0f38-dfc4-41e5-9a7f-2e9bd71ccaca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bainbridge Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , ARNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (Online Only)
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
![Photo of Heather King - Melrose Mental Wellness, PMHNP, BC, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92134403-afd4-4f27-9d70-b03fdf0e3d7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather King - Melrose Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 29 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental wellness and provide a caring, empathetic, non judgmental environment when caring for clients. I value evidence-based, complementary, integrative care that includes lifestyle and behavioral changes. In addition to prescribing medications, I offer cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi), the first line treatment recommendation for insomnia from the American College of Physicians, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and World Sleep Society.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 29 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental wellness and provide a caring, empathetic, non judgmental environment when caring for clients. I value evidence-based, complementary, integrative care that includes lifestyle and behavioral changes. In addition to prescribing medications, I offer cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi), the first line treatment recommendation for insomnia from the American College of Physicians, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and World Sleep Society.
![Photo of Anna Kielak, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/406794b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that mental health conditions can be compared to physical injuries. For example when you sprain your ankle, you need to go to see a specialist. She/he will prescribe you some anti-inflammatory medications - maybe Ibuprofen and some Cortisone shots. Then you will need to attend physical therapy (PT). If you work hard during your PT appointments, your ankle will get better and you will need less medication. The same can be said about mental health disorders.
I believe that mental health conditions can be compared to physical injuries. For example when you sprain your ankle, you need to go to see a specialist. She/he will prescribe you some anti-inflammatory medications - maybe Ibuprofen and some Cortisone shots. Then you will need to attend physical therapy (PT). If you work hard during your PT appointments, your ankle will get better and you will need less medication. The same can be said about mental health disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ed97496-e105-41fe-afa6-558e92c71cef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (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.
![Photo of Angela Tefft, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8033fc1e-5761-4672-a330-6cae511dce0b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). These certifications allow me to take both physical and mental health into consideration while developing treatment plans, to proactively address problems that may develop with certain treatments, or make recommendations for medical issues/treatments that may be contributing to a mental health disorder. I am licensed to treat clients of all ages, and has experience with clients from preschool to older adulthood.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). These certifications allow me to take both physical and mental health into consideration while developing treatment plans, to proactively address problems that may develop with certain treatments, or make recommendations for medical issues/treatments that may be contributing to a mental health disorder. I am licensed to treat clients of all ages, and has experience with clients from preschool to older adulthood.
![Photo of Travis Albers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba88f911-e06a-4bbd-a719-ea00a1c2daa3/1/320x400.png)
Travis Albers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98367 (Online Only)
Hey There, Ready to Kick Mental Health's Ass? Trav Has Your Back! Alright, let's cut the BS and get real for a minute. Life can be a total rollercoaster, am I right? From the endless mind chatter to those sleepless nights and that damn anxiety that just won't quit, it's like a never-ending battle sometimes. But guess what? You don't have to face it alone. I’m Trav, your no-nonsense Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who's here to help you kick mental health's ass and reclaim your life. Trav doesn’t do fancy medical talk or judgmental vibes—nah, Trav’s all about keeping it real and meeting you right where you're at. -(Telehealth Only)-
Hey There, Ready to Kick Mental Health's Ass? Trav Has Your Back! Alright, let's cut the BS and get real for a minute. Life can be a total rollercoaster, am I right? From the endless mind chatter to those sleepless nights and that damn anxiety that just won't quit, it's like a never-ending battle sometimes. But guess what? You don't have to face it alone. I’m Trav, your no-nonsense Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who's here to help you kick mental health's ass and reclaim your life. Trav doesn’t do fancy medical talk or judgmental vibes—nah, Trav’s all about keeping it real and meeting you right where you're at. -(Telehealth Only)-
![Photo of Dr. Naomi Bradfute - Circle Psychiatry PLLC, ND , PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c029adee-cf3e-4714-8fb2-ffb8d6b1b4c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Circle Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND , PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
One in 5 women and some men experience mental health issues around childbearing. It doesn't need to be so hard. I provide compassionate, detailed psychiatric assessment and medication management for people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar, Postpartum Psychosis, Intrusive Thoughts, and Overwhelm. With 30 years experience in OB nursing care, I have a unique understanding of the complexities of treating mental health in the setting of pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding.
One in 5 women and some men experience mental health issues around childbearing. It doesn't need to be so hard. I provide compassionate, detailed psychiatric assessment and medication management for people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar, Postpartum Psychosis, Intrusive Thoughts, and Overwhelm. With 30 years experience in OB nursing care, I have a unique understanding of the complexities of treating mental health in the setting of pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding.
Dr. Sammy Gathiru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98407
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
![Photo of Dr. Matias Massaro, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e9ca227-2634-4b9e-ae05-0e72f4612ace/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Matias Massaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98329
Reading this signifies that you acknowledge things need to change. I see people living in “hard mode,” as if they are walking with Lego pieces inside their shoes, feeling stuck, resourceless, or overwhelmed. We strive to walk in those shoes and make it through the day, but sometimes we don’t take a step. Your life doesn’t have to be a daily battle. I would be honored to collaborate with you in your healing journey. I aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking mental health care. I strive to build genuine, cooperative partnerships to define and address therapeutic goals.
Reading this signifies that you acknowledge things need to change. I see people living in “hard mode,” as if they are walking with Lego pieces inside their shoes, feeling stuck, resourceless, or overwhelmed. We strive to walk in those shoes and make it through the day, but sometimes we don’t take a step. Your life doesn’t have to be a daily battle. I would be honored to collaborate with you in your healing journey. I aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking mental health care. I strive to build genuine, cooperative partnerships to define and address therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Marli W Parobek - Precision Psychiatry - Dr. Marli W. Parobek, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51f0b52a-b804-43f7-a611-0d990e52d516/2/320x400.jpeg)
Precision Psychiatry - Dr. Marli W. Parobek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Hello. I am Dr. Marli W. Parobek, owner of Precision Psychiatry. My practice is focused on medication treatment that is tailored to meet your specific mental health needs. I am dedicated to delivering modern medical solutions with a practical application. Everyone has different needs and your care deserves to be individualized. When you are ready, I am here to help in your pursuit of wellness.
Hello. I am Dr. Marli W. Parobek, owner of Precision Psychiatry. My practice is focused on medication treatment that is tailored to meet your specific mental health needs. I am dedicated to delivering modern medical solutions with a practical application. Everyone has different needs and your care deserves to be individualized. When you are ready, I am here to help in your pursuit of wellness.
![Photo of Diana L Liebner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/988c92d0-9c12-4b7d-96b5-37dafbc43df1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diana L Liebner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Not accepting new clients
In-office or tele-psych appointments. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), educated and trained at the University of Washington in Seattle. I assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions with therapy and targeted medications. The path to mental wellness may involve multiple therapies and medication strategies. I am experienced in a range of therapeutic approaches and safe, targeted medication management, thus able to provide a tailored plan of care for individual needs and support each client in achieving better mental health.
In-office or tele-psych appointments. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), educated and trained at the University of Washington in Seattle. I assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions with therapy and targeted medications. The path to mental wellness may involve multiple therapies and medication strategies. I am experienced in a range of therapeutic approaches and safe, targeted medication management, thus able to provide a tailored plan of care for individual needs and support each client in achieving better mental health.
![Photo of Rita DeGrate - DeGrate + Co PLLC, PMHNP, CHPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd56b6e6-cfd6-424a-beed-4a13a4dd3e67/2/320x400.jpeg)
At DeGrate + Co (www.degrate.co), we utilize the latest science to springboard you into the future with reverence and respect for your past. We specialize in navigating transitions, tough conversations, and believe in trauma-informed care. We are gentle guides as you progress and willing witnesses to your next right step. You can find us at the corner of behavioral health and wellness. Reach out if you’re ready to grow.
At DeGrate + Co (www.degrate.co), we utilize the latest science to springboard you into the future with reverence and respect for your past. We specialize in navigating transitions, tough conversations, and believe in trauma-informed care. We are gentle guides as you progress and willing witnesses to your next right step. You can find us at the corner of behavioral health and wellness. Reach out if you’re ready to grow.
![Photo of Angela Barnett, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5029f344-d144-4b1f-9d7b-41a30f458d1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Weekend and evening appointments available! I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in treating adults only. I love and strive to take the stigma out of mental health and help my patients make sense of their lives by embracing their unique journey. I am comfortable and proficient in treating a variety of mental health challenges and I am LGBTQIA friendly!
Weekend and evening appointments available! I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in treating adults only. I love and strive to take the stigma out of mental health and help my patients make sense of their lives by embracing their unique journey. I am comfortable and proficient in treating a variety of mental health challenges and I am LGBTQIA friendly!
![Photo of Tara Arevalo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77c5a4d7-e1e0-43a7-abb0-71ba142ff932/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Arevalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98443
Not accepting new clients
We offer personalized and effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We offer telehealth and in-office appointments as needed. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again.
We offer personalized and effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We offer telehealth and in-office appointments as needed. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals so that you may begin the healing process and find your true self again.
See more therapy options for Olalla
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Olalla, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Olalla, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | ComPsych |
How Psychiatrists in Olalla, WA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Olalla?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.