Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
![Photo of Kimberly Collison-Ris, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4966c394-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Collison-Ris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with Prescriptive Authority. I have over 16 years of experience providing healthcare services, combining medication management and whole-person centered health care.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with Prescriptive Authority. I have over 16 years of experience providing healthcare services, combining medication management and whole-person centered health care.
![Photo of Sonia Nikolova, MN, ARNP, ACT, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0cb2051-cd86-4654-b036-622c2d61473d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
![Photo of Pamela A Yunga - MiraMinds Holistic Care, DNP, PMHNP-C, ACNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a2dae1-5a94-4088-a91c-d08766faefb3/2/320x400.jpeg)
MiraMinds Holistic Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, ACNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Are you feeling hopeless or struggling with your mental health? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Book with me now by clicking on my WEBSITE! Accepting Clients!
Are you feeling hopeless or struggling with your mental health? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Book with me now by clicking on my WEBSITE! Accepting Clients!
![Photo of Dr. Roberto Montenegro, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91091cc9-fc7d-44d9-ba71-11c4cab0c0c1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Roberto Montenegro
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
![Photo of Amy Brumbaugh, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d58736a5-574b-4bd3-9d7b-4f034a2aa1e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Brumbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
My clients come from different backgrounds and walks of life, all seeking support for their emotional well-being and mental balance. I specialize in helping those dealing with mood disorders and anxiety, offering a tailored approach to address their unique struggles (including medication management, supplements & exercise programs, and therapy options). My ideal client is someone who's ready to work together on this journey towards better mental health, with trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to positive change.
My clients come from different backgrounds and walks of life, all seeking support for their emotional well-being and mental balance. I specialize in helping those dealing with mood disorders and anxiety, offering a tailored approach to address their unique struggles (including medication management, supplements & exercise programs, and therapy options). My ideal client is someone who's ready to work together on this journey towards better mental health, with trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to positive change.
![Photo of Lizzy Shevins, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c53f0190-ebd2-49f3-94bf-b83c0246da65/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lizzy Shevins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I support adults ages 18+ struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other challenges. I believe that the most effective treatment comes from working together to understand your unique experiences and needs. I also appreciate collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure you receive well-rounded, coordinated care.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I support adults ages 18+ struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other challenges. I believe that the most effective treatment comes from working together to understand your unique experiences and needs. I also appreciate collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure you receive well-rounded, coordinated care.
![Photo of Meredith A Parr - Art of Mind Health | Integrative Psychiatry, MPAP, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4deefd49-6c04-4501-8a79-d8d86dac5e9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Art of Mind Health | Integrative Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, MPAP, PA-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Immediate availability for new telemedicine clients! I am a Psychiatric Clinician who gives you the keys to unlock your most vibrant life! I help adults with ADHD, anxiety/depression, and burnout by combining prescription medication with holistic treatment modalities. Schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation through my website: www.artofmindhealth.com
Immediate availability for new telemedicine clients! I am a Psychiatric Clinician who gives you the keys to unlock your most vibrant life! I help adults with ADHD, anxiety/depression, and burnout by combining prescription medication with holistic treatment modalities. Schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation through my website: www.artofmindhealth.com
![Photo of Anicka Oyer Meyers, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2471a5-e688-49c6-a0fd-707394489a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
![Photo of Adam Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5b30b32-f3d8-4d83-8886-05288f6e2957/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
![Photo of Ann M Griffin, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbabef21-5c7f-4c36-af68-103fd94e047f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ann M Griffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I specialize in medication management for adults age 20 and up. I emphasize a holistic approach, focusing on multiple factors that contribute to overall functioning, mental health, and wellbeing. Education is a fundamental component of my approach, so I strongly believe in empowering each client with the knowledge to take an active role in their treatment. The therapeutic alliance I develop with each of my clients is based on trust, open communication, compassion, and respect, which cultivates positive development, recovery, and healing. With this focus, I hope to serve as a guide to help clients meet their goals.
I specialize in medication management for adults age 20 and up. I emphasize a holistic approach, focusing on multiple factors that contribute to overall functioning, mental health, and wellbeing. Education is a fundamental component of my approach, so I strongly believe in empowering each client with the knowledge to take an active role in their treatment. The therapeutic alliance I develop with each of my clients is based on trust, open communication, compassion, and respect, which cultivates positive development, recovery, and healing. With this focus, I hope to serve as a guide to help clients meet their goals.
I am honored to have the opportunity to work with individuals who grapple with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My journey in this field has been driven by a deep passion for helping others navigate the complexities of their mental health. I use medications, alternative treatments, psychotherapy and nutrition.
I am honored to have the opportunity to work with individuals who grapple with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My journey in this field has been driven by a deep passion for helping others navigate the complexities of their mental health. I use medications, alternative treatments, psychotherapy and nutrition.
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![Photo of Osakpolo Uwoghiren - Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/636e394f-7c11-4686-8d86-d20abe11e33b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Currently accepting new clients throughout Nevada, New York, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington. Prioritize Your Mental Well-being. At Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC, we believe mental health matters. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being. Discover a range of resources from therapy options to medication management, tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a happier, and healthier you. Take the first step today in the wellness journey!
Currently accepting new clients throughout Nevada, New York, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington. Prioritize Your Mental Well-being. At Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC, we believe mental health matters. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being. Discover a range of resources from therapy options to medication management, tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a happier, and healthier you. Take the first step today in the wellness journey!
![Photo of Jacob Markovitz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0434ccf-1345-4486-94fa-6d10be705acf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychiatrist with a particular interest in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. The minds and characters of people are infinitely varied and complex. This creates subtle but vital differences in the way that any two people manifest problematic thoughts, emotions, or behaviors. Consequently, I believe that effective treatment requires a genuine understanding and appreciation of the person seeking assistance, not just rout knowledge of the symptoms for which he or she seeks help. Psychotherapy aims to deepen an individual's self-awareness. Greater insight can decrease painful symptoms, resolve problematic patterns of behavior, and cultivate meaning in life.
I am a licensed psychiatrist with a particular interest in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. The minds and characters of people are infinitely varied and complex. This creates subtle but vital differences in the way that any two people manifest problematic thoughts, emotions, or behaviors. Consequently, I believe that effective treatment requires a genuine understanding and appreciation of the person seeking assistance, not just rout knowledge of the symptoms for which he or she seeks help. Psychotherapy aims to deepen an individual's self-awareness. Greater insight can decrease painful symptoms, resolve problematic patterns of behavior, and cultivate meaning in life.
![Photo of Dorcas Mwangi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b495236d-454f-44d9-8a23-e1facaf5b203/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dorcas Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
Welcome to our site. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington state. I have over 11 years of experience working in the mental health filed. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence-based medication management. My ultimate goal is to work with my clients to find an individualized treatment plan that helps them to achieve their best wellness. I believe in offering Patient-Centered Care, to enable my patients to acquire necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health wellness.
![Photo of Frederick Duennebier - Frederick Duennebier, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/485cc64f-393e-4392-afc1-d7c3d9c393ae/2/320x400.png)
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
![Photo of LORRAINE Bennett, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efd10d17-e054-40ef-afc2-91b754b85e44/3/320x400.jpeg)
LORRAINE Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Working with individuals challenged by mental health and substance use disorders is a passion of mine, and it truly is a privilege. Psychiatric problems are actually very common, but unfortunately that does not mean that they are easy to discuss with others, or to seek professional help to address. I recognize that simply acknowledging that we are having a problem can be an enormous hurdle to overcome. My hope is that I can provide an atmosphere which is open and non-judgmental, and allows individuals whom I work with to share.
Working with individuals challenged by mental health and substance use disorders is a passion of mine, and it truly is a privilege. Psychiatric problems are actually very common, but unfortunately that does not mean that they are easy to discuss with others, or to seek professional help to address. I recognize that simply acknowledging that we are having a problem can be an enormous hurdle to overcome. My hope is that I can provide an atmosphere which is open and non-judgmental, and allows individuals whom I work with to share.
![Photo of Callie McEwen, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d1ca87d-c76f-4e21-847e-96d48ad36a4a/2/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and compassionate mental health services to adolescents and adults ages 14 and older. Safety and evidence-based practice are my priority when creating a successful comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. I help my clients find effective medications with minimal side effects and achieve greater wellness with lifestyle modifications. I aim to work together as a collaborative team and may refer for additional testing and support.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and compassionate mental health services to adolescents and adults ages 14 and older. Safety and evidence-based practice are my priority when creating a successful comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. I help my clients find effective medications with minimal side effects and achieve greater wellness with lifestyle modifications. I aim to work together as a collaborative team and may refer for additional testing and support.
![Photo of Heidi Iwanski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e699547-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice since 2000, and continue to feel privileged to be able to work with many types of patients, adults and older adolescents, with a wide variety of concerns.
I have been in practice since 2000, and continue to feel privileged to be able to work with many types of patients, adults and older adolescents, with a wide variety of concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Ellestad, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d0eab16-c671-4ea5-b704-fbf28ae14d19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Ellestad
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bcad635-5595-4366-8316-97be65751834/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
84% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
64% | Premera Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.