Psychiatrists in Sequim, WA
Welcome to Raleigh's Premier Online ADHD Medical Practice! Discover a personalized approach to managing ADHD right from the comfort of your home with our cutting-edge online medical practice. At Psychiatry of Raleigh, we understand the unique challenges that come with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and we're here to provide compassionate care tailored to your individual needs.
Welcome to Raleigh's Premier Online ADHD Medical Practice! Discover a personalized approach to managing ADHD right from the comfort of your home with our cutting-edge online medical practice. At Psychiatry of Raleigh, we understand the unique challenges that come with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and we're here to provide compassionate care tailored to your individual needs.
I had the honor of being trained by Francine Shapiro, originator of EMDR Psychotherapy. I work with individuals across the life span with a multitude of mental health challenges such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Bereavement and mourning, Chronic Pain, ADHD, Divorce etc.
I had the honor of being trained by Francine Shapiro, originator of EMDR Psychotherapy. I work with individuals across the life span with a multitude of mental health challenges such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Bereavement and mourning, Chronic Pain, ADHD, Divorce etc.
Online Psychiatrists
Joshua Meza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Hello, my name is Josh. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have been in practice since 2016. Since then, I have worked in a variety of psychiatric settings including outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health. Prior to my certification as a PMHNP-BC, I worked as a Registered Nurse providing behavioral health care to residential, child and adolescent clients. During my years in practice, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of mental health challenges and bring that wealth of experience into each visit.
Hello, my name is Josh. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have been in practice since 2016. Since then, I have worked in a variety of psychiatric settings including outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health. Prior to my certification as a PMHNP-BC, I worked as a Registered Nurse providing behavioral health care to residential, child and adolescent clients. During my years in practice, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of mental health challenges and bring that wealth of experience into each visit.
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
April JoAnn Matzenbacher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
The greatest lesson that I have received in my role as a healthcare professional is that most human suffering is rooted in emotional and cognitive difficulty. These challenges often stem from pain or trauma, typically early in our development. The mind is an organ like any other in the body; as such, it needs care and healing from time to time! Often, the most impactful modality one can offer is that of human empathy and kindness. My fervent hope is to assist those who suffer to attain strength, resiliency, and inner peace.
The greatest lesson that I have received in my role as a healthcare professional is that most human suffering is rooted in emotional and cognitive difficulty. These challenges often stem from pain or trauma, typically early in our development. The mind is an organ like any other in the body; as such, it needs care and healing from time to time! Often, the most impactful modality one can offer is that of human empathy and kindness. My fervent hope is to assist those who suffer to attain strength, resiliency, and inner peace.
Emma Oswald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to medication management, I use an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens to approach healing. IFS is a non-pathologizing, transformative, and evidence-based psychotherapy that guides individuals toward access and love of their inner protective and wounded parts. This includes exploration of thoughts, feelings, sensations, and imagery. In addition to IFS, I draw from narrative therapy and other somatically oriented approaches including mindfulness and Vipassana meditation, and I am fascinated by the transformation that can occur when we become curious about the body’s wisdom.
In addition to medication management, I use an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens to approach healing. IFS is a non-pathologizing, transformative, and evidence-based psychotherapy that guides individuals toward access and love of their inner protective and wounded parts. This includes exploration of thoughts, feelings, sensations, and imagery. In addition to IFS, I draw from narrative therapy and other somatically oriented approaches including mindfulness and Vipassana meditation, and I am fascinated by the transformation that can occur when we become curious about the body’s wisdom.
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
Amy Biondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98106 (Online Only)
I'm a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapist, offering an integrative approach to mental health by combining medication management, brief psychotherapy, and alternative modalities to support your emotional and psychological well-being. My practice is centered on providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your unique needs.
I'm a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapist, offering an integrative approach to mental health by combining medication management, brief psychotherapy, and alternative modalities to support your emotional and psychological well-being. My practice is centered on providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your unique needs.
Mihaela Corteza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Find me on Grow Therapy, Alma, Headway or Sesame. I accept WA and FL patients (children, adolescents and adults) via Telehealth at The MindSight Clinic (www.themindsightclinic.com). Insurances accepted: Cigna, Aetna, Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health and soon BCBS. As a Double Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages. Contact me via my website.
Find me on Grow Therapy, Alma, Headway or Sesame. I accept WA and FL patients (children, adolescents and adults) via Telehealth at The MindSight Clinic (www.themindsightclinic.com). Insurances accepted: Cigna, Aetna, Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health and soon BCBS. As a Double Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages. Contact me via my website.
Amy Diamond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or neurodevelopmental concerns, seeking a compassionate and understanding space to address their challenges. They need personalized, evidence-based treatment and a supportive environment where they feel safe to explore their feelings and goals. Their primary goal is to achieve emotional stability, improve coping skills, and foster personal growth. They want a tailored approach that respects their unique experiences and cultural background, aiming for a more balanced, fulfilling life.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or neurodevelopmental concerns, seeking a compassionate and understanding space to address their challenges. They need personalized, evidence-based treatment and a supportive environment where they feel safe to explore their feelings and goals. Their primary goal is to achieve emotional stability, improve coping skills, and foster personal growth. They want a tailored approach that respects their unique experiences and cultural background, aiming for a more balanced, fulfilling life.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal for patients is to give them the support that they need to improve their quality of life and a safe space to identify how to make that happen. I am passionate about working with with adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma-related disorders. As a provider, I take a collaborative approach with my patients and individualize treatment to meet your needs. I want to empower people to feel in control of their lives and their own mental health and strive to provide the tools to make informed decisions about mental healthcare.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal for patients is to give them the support that they need to improve their quality of life and a safe space to identify how to make that happen. I am passionate about working with with adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma-related disorders. As a provider, I take a collaborative approach with my patients and individualize treatment to meet your needs. I want to empower people to feel in control of their lives and their own mental health and strive to provide the tools to make informed decisions about mental healthcare.
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.
Mindful Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Chelsia Burkes-Brown, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
Hello! My name is Chelsia Burkes-Brown, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
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
Macbarbara Amaechi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Hi, my name is Macbarbara Amaechi, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I utilize a philosophy that is based on holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to managing and treating all types of mental illness. I will help identify the approach that will balance your mind while utilizing Evidenced based practice. I am open-minded and my goal is to build therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique an individualized patient care
Hi, my name is Macbarbara Amaechi, I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I utilize a philosophy that is based on holistic, evidence-based patient-centered approach to managing and treating all types of mental illness. I will help identify the approach that will balance your mind while utilizing Evidenced based practice. I am open-minded and my goal is to build therapeutic alliance that focuses on unique an individualized patient care
Kory Simonsen @prisma Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057
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 one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
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 one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
Hello! I am a board certified PMHNP licensed in Washington. I have always enjoyed working in the mental health field as it is one of my top interests and passions. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health, inpatient emergency psych, and geriatric inpatient units. I have comfort working with all age groups across the lifespan. In particular, I enjoy the outpatient setting where we often see transformative and meaningful improvements, which is rewarding for everyone! This is my goal when providing mental health support, each person I work with is very important to me.
Hello! I am a board certified PMHNP licensed in Washington. I have always enjoyed working in the mental health field as it is one of my top interests and passions. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health, inpatient emergency psych, and geriatric inpatient units. I have comfort working with all age groups across the lifespan. In particular, I enjoy the outpatient setting where we often see transformative and meaningful improvements, which is rewarding for everyone! This is my goal when providing mental health support, each person I work with is very important to me.
My Mind Care, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tukwila, WA 98188
Hello, my name is Annabelle Vo. I am a doctorally prepared Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PNHNP-BC). I received my Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in Nursing from University of Washington, Seattle, WA. My philosophy of care is to instill hope and assist clients to find purpose in their journey of mental well-being. I strongly believe that committed collaboration between provider and client achieves best outcome.
Hello, my name is Annabelle Vo. I am a doctorally prepared Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PNHNP-BC). I received my Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in Nursing from University of Washington, Seattle, WA. My philosophy of care is to instill hope and assist clients to find purpose in their journey of mental well-being. I strongly believe that committed collaboration between provider and client achieves best outcome.
Jennifer Hogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to developing trusting, collaborative, and effective working relationships with my clients. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach to mental health which can include psychotherapy, lifestyle and environmental modifications, and medication when necessary. The primary services I offer include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnosis, medication management, as well as psychoeducation and brief therapeutic interventions.
I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to developing trusting, collaborative, and effective working relationships with my clients. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach to mental health which can include psychotherapy, lifestyle and environmental modifications, and medication when necessary. The primary services I offer include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnosis, medication management, as well as psychoeducation and brief therapeutic interventions.
See more therapy options for Sequim
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sequim, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sequim, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | ADHD |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Depression |
50% | Anxiety |
50% | Child |
50% | Chronic Pain |
50% | Domestic Abuse |
Average years in practice
30 Years
How Psychiatrists in Sequim, WA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sequim?
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.