Psychiatrists in Redmond, WA

Photo of Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Miguel De La Mora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a University of Texas-trained board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. During his time in Houston, TX completing his Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree he completed clinical rotations at UTHealth Houston Harris County Psychiatric Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, Psychiatry of Texas, Synapse Psychiatry and Turning Point Psychiatry. He completed his doctoral research project on post-stroke depression and post-stroke anxiety.
Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a University of Texas-trained board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. During his time in Houston, TX completing his Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree he completed clinical rotations at UTHealth Houston Harris County Psychiatric Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, Psychiatry of Texas, Synapse Psychiatry and Turning Point Psychiatry. He completed his doctoral research project on post-stroke depression and post-stroke anxiety.
(509) 257-4102 View (509) 257-4102
Photo of Nathan Bushue, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Nathan Bushue
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
I have worked in both community mental health and private clinics prior to coming to LightHeart. This exposure has equipped me with a broad perspective on mental healthcare. I have worked with clients with many different backgrounds and ages. I like working with clients during life transitions. Helping clients find a path for the future is a passion of mine. I am also well-versed in the use of innovative clinical technologies such as TMS (trans-cranial magnetic stimulation) and Spravato (ketamine delivered via nasal spray) for treatment-resistant depression.
I have worked in both community mental health and private clinics prior to coming to LightHeart. This exposure has equipped me with a broad perspective on mental healthcare. I have worked with clients with many different backgrounds and ages. I like working with clients during life transitions. Helping clients find a path for the future is a passion of mine. I am also well-versed in the use of innovative clinical technologies such as TMS (trans-cranial magnetic stimulation) and Spravato (ketamine delivered via nasal spray) for treatment-resistant depression.
(206) 589-1117 View (206) 589-1117
Photo of Jessica H Gonzales, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica H Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. As an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I see patients 18 yo and older, which means that in addition to other tools I've gained from my advanced training, I can prescribe medication when necessary. Medication management is an important component of what I do, and when it's needed, I work collaboratively to find a regimen that works best for you. When you come to me, you may have been working with another practitioner, tried a variety of other approaches, or may be taking a step toward treatment for the first time.
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. As an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I see patients 18 yo and older, which means that in addition to other tools I've gained from my advanced training, I can prescribe medication when necessary. Medication management is an important component of what I do, and when it's needed, I work collaboratively to find a regimen that works best for you. When you come to me, you may have been working with another practitioner, tried a variety of other approaches, or may be taking a step toward treatment for the first time.
(425) 276-6294 View (425) 276-6294
Photo of Ebony Blackmon Humphrey, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ebony Blackmon Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC, CCM
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
What is the quickest way to be seen? Click on the "My Website" tab and complete the "Pre-Screen" form. Once received our office will verify your insurance and send you a link to Luminello (Check Your Spam/Junk Folder). Once accepted, you can complete the new patient forms. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passionate about caring for those with trauma narratives, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, and addiction. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings with Acute Adults, Geriatric, Adolescent and Youth, Outpatient Substance Use, and Perinatal Mood Populations.
What is the quickest way to be seen? Click on the "My Website" tab and complete the "Pre-Screen" form. Once received our office will verify your insurance and send you a link to Luminello (Check Your Spam/Junk Folder). Once accepted, you can complete the new patient forms. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passionate about caring for those with trauma narratives, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, and addiction. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings with Acute Adults, Geriatric, Adolescent and Youth, Outpatient Substance Use, and Perinatal Mood Populations.
(206) 338-6616 View (206) 338-6616
Photo of Dr. Annabelle Dampier, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Annabelle Dampier
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Dr. Dampier is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist accepting new patients. She has extensive experience with assessing and treating a diverse array of psychiatric diagnoses. Moreover, she incorporates cultural psychiatry into clinical supervision and psychiatric assessments. Her private practice offers pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy medical interventions. She enjoys working alongside neuropsychiatrist to manage patients who undergo acute and intermittent neuromodulation.
Dr. Dampier is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist accepting new patients. She has extensive experience with assessing and treating a diverse array of psychiatric diagnoses. Moreover, she incorporates cultural psychiatry into clinical supervision and psychiatric assessments. Her private practice offers pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy medical interventions. She enjoys working alongside neuropsychiatrist to manage patients who undergo acute and intermittent neuromodulation.
(206) 593-3343 View (206) 593-3343
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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
(206) 457-1886 View (206) 457-1886
Photo of Dr. Kory Simonsen, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kory Simonsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: “If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where we stand on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations.
Accepting New Clients: “If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where we stand on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations.
(425) 578-5929 View (425) 578-5929
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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
(206) 678-0481 View (206) 678-0481
Photo of Michael Ramsey, DO, Psychiatrist
Michael Ramsey
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
(206) 558-0264 View (206) 558-0264
Photo of Jabari Dobson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jabari Dobson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Hi, I’m Jabari Dobson. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental nurse practitioner for all ages. I provide medication management, psychotherapy, and other great care. My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and more. My therapeutic approach is to use a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic methods to achieve healing and understanding within all of my patients. My patient focus is not limited to any specific group as I wish to serve anyone within need of care.
Hi, I’m Jabari Dobson. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental nurse practitioner for all ages. I provide medication management, psychotherapy, and other great care. My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and more. My therapeutic approach is to use a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic methods to achieve healing and understanding within all of my patients. My patient focus is not limited to any specific group as I wish to serve anyone within need of care.
(509) 567-2977 View (509) 567-2977
Photo of Jashunta Carson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jashunta Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
JaShunta “Jai” Carson Is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In addition to her clinical experience, Ms. Carson’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, a Master’s of Science in Environmental Science and Rural Occupational Health from the University of Alabama, as well as second Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and finally a second Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
JaShunta “Jai” Carson Is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In addition to her clinical experience, Ms. Carson’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, a Master’s of Science in Environmental Science and Rural Occupational Health from the University of Alabama, as well as second Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and finally a second Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
(509) 210-4449 View (509) 210-4449
Photo of Audry Gorman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Audry Gorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
(509) 512-0539 View (509) 512-0539
Photo of Abebe Belete, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abebe Belete
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
I am Abebe Belete, a doctoral nurse practitioner (DNP) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board-certified (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based practices with empathetic listening to address the unique needs of each client. With a focus on individual therapy and medication management, Dr. Belete specializes in treating mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders, as well as providing support for individuals navigating life transitions and managing stress.
I am Abebe Belete, a doctoral nurse practitioner (DNP) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board-certified (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based practices with empathetic listening to address the unique needs of each client. With a focus on individual therapy and medication management, Dr. Belete specializes in treating mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders, as well as providing support for individuals navigating life transitions and managing stress.
(509) 210-4753 View (509) 210-4753
Photo of Shola Adewunmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shola Adewunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Hello, I'm Shola, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with five years of experience in mental health care. I've worked with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and more, and I'm passionate about providing personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each individual. In my practice, I prioritize building trusting relationships with my patients. I believe in collaborative decision-making and integrating various treatment modalities for comprehensive mental health care.
Hello, I'm Shola, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with five years of experience in mental health care. I've worked with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and more, and I'm passionate about providing personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each individual. In my practice, I prioritize building trusting relationships with my patients. I believe in collaborative decision-making and integrating various treatment modalities for comprehensive mental health care.
(509) 204-9769 View (509) 204-9769
Photo of Fitsum Belay, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fitsum Belay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Fitsum Belay is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2024. She earned a BSN at University of Washington. Fitsum is dedicated to advancing mental health care and improving patient outcomes through compassionate and evidence-based practice. Fitsum strives to create a trusting and therapeutic relationship with each patient, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered on their journey to mental wellness.
Fitsum Belay is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2024. She earned a BSN at University of Washington. Fitsum is dedicated to advancing mental health care and improving patient outcomes through compassionate and evidence-based practice. Fitsum strives to create a trusting and therapeutic relationship with each patient, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered on their journey to mental wellness.
(425) 403-2817 View (425) 403-2817
Photo of Jason Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jason Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Hello, my name is Dr. Jason Johnson, DNP. With expertise in psychiatry, men's health, addiction, and weight loss, I take a comprehensive and personalized approach to healthcare. My method integrates therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormone treatments to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being. In providing mental healthcare, my approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on integrating various treatment modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. I utilize a combination of therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormones to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jason Johnson, DNP. With expertise in psychiatry, men's health, addiction, and weight loss, I take a comprehensive and personalized approach to healthcare. My method integrates therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormone treatments to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being. In providing mental healthcare, my approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on integrating various treatment modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. I utilize a combination of therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormones to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
(509) 563-7030 View (509) 563-7030
Photo of Redempta Mwikya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Redempta Mwikya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Ms. Redempta Mwikya is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and has a master’s degree in nursing. Redempta is qualified and experienced to practice in outpatient, inpatient, and telepsychiatry. Redempta works collaboratively with other providers to diagnose and treat mental health issues and psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Patient care requires empathy, understanding, compassion, patience, and love for fellow human beings. Redempta desires to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals who struggle with mental illness.
Ms. Redempta Mwikya is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and has a master’s degree in nursing. Redempta is qualified and experienced to practice in outpatient, inpatient, and telepsychiatry. Redempta works collaboratively with other providers to diagnose and treat mental health issues and psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Patient care requires empathy, understanding, compassion, patience, and love for fellow human beings. Redempta desires to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals who struggle with mental illness.
(509) 571-2590 View (509) 571-2590
Photo of Bahattin Ergin, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bahattin Ergin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
(509) 210-7386 View (509) 210-7386
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(509) 722-8390 View (509) 722-8390
Photo of Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (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.
(206) 501-4342 View (206) 501-4342
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Redmond, WA

80+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Redmond, WA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
93% Depression
81% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD
64% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Redmond, WA see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
28% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Redmond?

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.