Psychiatrists in Oysterville, WA
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Washington below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Agnes Benjamin - Agnes Benjamin/Let Tas Psychiatry Services, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e63d83a6-a784-4b76-9661-fe108366a80a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Agnes Benjamin/Let Tas Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocean Park, WA 98640 (Online Only)
As someone who has gone through grief due to a loss of a family member, leading to feeling depressed and loss and not knowing what to do, I can relate to some of the symptoms presented by my patients.
As someone who has gone through grief due to a loss of a family member, leading to feeling depressed and loss and not knowing what to do, I can relate to some of the symptoms presented by my patients.
Online Psychiatrists
![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
Silverdale, WA 98383
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 Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db6dee23-a1c3-461a-ba21-8b376c0d83eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.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 Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
![Photo of Nicholas Ibekwe, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01b18209-2cf8-4634-a1d9-bff9ba039448/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Ibekwe is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2023. Nicholas provides individual therapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and crisis intervention. Outside of work, Nicholas enjoys reading, soccer, and hiking.
Nicholas Ibekwe is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2023. Nicholas provides individual therapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and crisis intervention. Outside of work, Nicholas enjoys reading, soccer, and hiking.
![Photo of Harvey William Hall - Genuine Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12fb8141-c7af-4d58-b554-761b8f24a497/2/320x400.png)
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
![Photo of Cory Zeller, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9034e1db-de07-482a-8897-e60f324c63f1/1/320x400.png)
Cory Zeller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Cory (he/him/his) is an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Augusta University. A transplant to the Pacific Northwest from the Southern US, Cory is passionate about providing holistic, client-centered care to individuals from all walks of life. Prior to joining Spectrum Mental Health, Cory spent 2.5 years working as the lead practitioner of a clinic providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and esketamine (Spravato) services to clients across Washington and Oregon.
Cory (he/him/his) is an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Augusta University. A transplant to the Pacific Northwest from the Southern US, Cory is passionate about providing holistic, client-centered care to individuals from all walks of life. Prior to joining Spectrum Mental Health, Cory spent 2.5 years working as the lead practitioner of a clinic providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and esketamine (Spravato) services to clients across Washington and Oregon.
![Photo of Diana Wilcox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6389d60c-d94f-4c57-929a-6819f195f545/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! Is your battle with depression taking too much out of you? Is your child in need of mental health support? I am a board-certified Gonzaga Trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My main focus is on offering medication-free treatment for depression through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). In addition to TMS treatments, I work with children and adolescents. Our office is the only one in Tumwater that offers TMS for adolescents ages 15 and up. We have impressive remision rates of depression - 62 percent. No medication!
Accepting new patients! Is your battle with depression taking too much out of you? Is your child in need of mental health support? I am a board-certified Gonzaga Trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My main focus is on offering medication-free treatment for depression through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). In addition to TMS treatments, I work with children and adolescents. Our office is the only one in Tumwater that offers TMS for adolescents ages 15 and up. We have impressive remision rates of depression - 62 percent. No medication!
![Photo of Stephanie Adler - Anywhere Wellness - Stephanie Adler, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6f4b16c-b878-4400-8d26-d033b311b419/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anywhere Wellness - Stephanie Adler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98504 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having problems at work, at home or with others? Are you struggling with drinking, substance use, stress eating, or just taking basic care of yourself? I am here to help by offering safe, trusting, affirmative, warm, non-judgmental counseling. Life has its challenges, and as Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion are the foundation of a successful practice. We will work through your concerns together in a safe/private space! I offer both counseling and medication managment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having problems at work, at home or with others? Are you struggling with drinking, substance use, stress eating, or just taking basic care of yourself? I am here to help by offering safe, trusting, affirmative, warm, non-judgmental counseling. Life has its challenges, and as Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion are the foundation of a successful practice. We will work through your concerns together in a safe/private space! I offer both counseling and medication managment.
![Photo of Geleen Salcedo, DPT, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6263c8f3-ba1b-4e8e-9542-88989824c9a7/2/320x400.png)
Geleen Salcedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPT, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405 (Online Only)
Ever felt like your emotions are a puzzle that doesn't quite fit? Or wondered why focus and motivation sometimes play hard to get? Let's tackle those questions together. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy in life. Struggling to kick-start your mornings or find the energy to face the day? Wrestling with overwhelming emotions that appear out of nowhere? Finding restful sleep elusive, leaving you drained? Lingering thoughts putting you on edge? Let's put these challenges to rest. If your mind feels like a racecar on an endless track, and handling intense emotions is like catching a whirlwind, you're not alone. I can be your guide.
Ever felt like your emotions are a puzzle that doesn't quite fit? Or wondered why focus and motivation sometimes play hard to get? Let's tackle those questions together. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy in life. Struggling to kick-start your mornings or find the energy to face the day? Wrestling with overwhelming emotions that appear out of nowhere? Finding restful sleep elusive, leaving you drained? Lingering thoughts putting you on edge? Let's put these challenges to rest. If your mind feels like a racecar on an endless track, and handling intense emotions is like catching a whirlwind, you're not alone. I can be your guide.
![Photo of Amy Heckler - The Center of Mindful Healing, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/300a5cec-b036-4c24-a9c5-e275e1d4dd0d/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Center of Mindful Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
It takes a lot of trust to disclose that which affects us most intimately. We have made strides over the years in mental health, but it can be difficult to take that first step. We offer telehealth and in person sessions making that first step easier for you. Improving your mental health is a personal journey. We're here to support you step by step.
It takes a lot of trust to disclose that which affects us most intimately. We have made strides over the years in mental health, but it can be difficult to take that first step. We offer telehealth and in person sessions making that first step easier for you. Improving your mental health is a personal journey. We're here to support you step by step.
![Photo of Jaime Chabuz, ARNP, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6146e6ab-8b3c-4e2a-8f93-290056ee35db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jaime Chabuz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371 (Online Only)
I believe that mental health is an essential component of your whole health & well-being. With this philosophy, I offer psychiatric & mental health care through a holistic & integrative lens, supporting you in your journey to wellness. Many factors in life can contribute to the mental health symptoms we experience, including sudden life changes, big transitions, situational stressors, & health-related concerns. My approach goes beyond focusing solely on diagnoses & medication. Instead, we will address the whole you—mind, body, & spirit—to create a comprehensive path toward healing & well-being. Telehealth services in WA, AZ & DC.
I believe that mental health is an essential component of your whole health & well-being. With this philosophy, I offer psychiatric & mental health care through a holistic & integrative lens, supporting you in your journey to wellness. Many factors in life can contribute to the mental health symptoms we experience, including sudden life changes, big transitions, situational stressors, & health-related concerns. My approach goes beyond focusing solely on diagnoses & medication. Instead, we will address the whole you—mind, body, & spirit—to create a comprehensive path toward healing & well-being. Telehealth services in WA, AZ & DC.
![Photo of Rachael Daniel - Anywhere Wellness Depression Medications -Rachael , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8292e366-c84c-4df4-be2a-3ecf1288cb5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anywhere Wellness Depression Medications -Rachael
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98504 (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed? Facing challenges at work, home, or in relationships? I provide safe, trusting, warm, non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I value mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity, and compassion. Together, we can address your concerns in a private, supportive space. I offer medication management with counseling.
Feeling overwhelmed? Facing challenges at work, home, or in relationships? I provide safe, trusting, warm, non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I value mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity, and compassion. Together, we can address your concerns in a private, supportive space. I offer medication management with counseling.
![Photo of Rachael Daniel, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c9c16a5-99a3-4c7a-a117-c85f078629cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael Daniel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661
Rachael Daniel is a dual certified Nurse Practitioner with expertise in both Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Care. She is committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and integrated healthcare services to patients, while addressing their physical and mental well-being. Rachael will evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including ADHD, Major Depression Disorder, Bipolar, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Rachael Daniel is a dual certified Nurse Practitioner with expertise in both Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Care. She is committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and integrated healthcare services to patients, while addressing their physical and mental well-being. Rachael will evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including ADHD, Major Depression Disorder, Bipolar, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
![Photo of Shelley Kelly, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bd7da06-9416-4359-b27d-018d466a988e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Patients 18+! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) experienced with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, etc. Are you looking for someone that listens to you and includes you in the decisions made in your treatment? Someone familiar with the EMS, military, and LGBTQIA+ communities? Someone that is non-judgmental and easy to talk to? I offer telemedicine (Zoom) appointments for adults living anywhere in Washington state as well as in-person appointments (upon request) in Tacoma, WA.
Now Accepting New Patients 18+! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) experienced with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, etc. Are you looking for someone that listens to you and includes you in the decisions made in your treatment? Someone familiar with the EMS, military, and LGBTQIA+ communities? Someone that is non-judgmental and easy to talk to? I offer telemedicine (Zoom) appointments for adults living anywhere in Washington state as well as in-person appointments (upon request) in Tacoma, WA.
![Photo of Christle Stanton, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdbac110-4aee-4e8c-bead-249b4781a278/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christle Stanton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christle and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christle is a board-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her healthcare career over 15 years ago as a registered nurse. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in family medicine in 2012. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christle and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christle is a board-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her healthcare career over 15 years ago as a registered nurse. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in family medicine in 2012. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
![Photo of Jeanne Fischer-McKee, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a819d141-efb8-408c-a159-eb63ef425d1a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide services to individuals age 20 and older and believe each client’s lived experience and input is vital for treatment planning. My hope is for clients to feel empowered, as they discover increased health and wellness as we partner together. Clients may access integrative care for mood stabilization, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, stress management, insomnia, smoking cessation, and post-acute withdrawal symptoms.
I provide services to individuals age 20 and older and believe each client’s lived experience and input is vital for treatment planning. My hope is for clients to feel empowered, as they discover increased health and wellness as we partner together. Clients may access integrative care for mood stabilization, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, stress management, insomnia, smoking cessation, and post-acute withdrawal symptoms.
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available and accepting new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available and accepting new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
![Photo of Julie Ann Thompson, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d763939f-123c-4ff8-96fd-7ab2ca055a98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Ann Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I help clients navigate their feelings and thoughts around the experience of being human. Listening to the client's life goals is the most important aspect of my care. My responsibility is to listen, offer suggestions and advocate for them.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I help clients navigate their feelings and thoughts around the experience of being human. Listening to the client's life goals is the most important aspect of my care. My responsibility is to listen, offer suggestions and advocate for them.
![Photo of Melissa Osada - Neupathway (Melissa Osada), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d33c5016-cdd4-4aae-ba2f-a6525b77e9d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
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 Stephanie Adler - Anywhere Wellness - Stephanie Adler, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c879ef95-8508-42ac-9513-243f005b2589/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anywhere Wellness - Stephanie Adler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98504 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you anxious, depressed, struggling with ADD/ADHD or OCD? You're not alone. My mission is to guide you through these struggles with empathy, expertise, and a collaborative approach to mental health care.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you anxious, depressed, struggling with ADD/ADHD or OCD? You're not alone. My mission is to guide you through these struggles with empathy, expertise, and a collaborative approach to mental health care.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oysterville, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Oysterville, WA who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Oysterville, WA see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oysterville?
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.