Psychiatrists in Wenatchee, WA
Michael Speed - Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP) with a specific focus on ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, and mood stability management. I have worked with pediatric populations and adults as a PMHNP, along with ages across the lifespan as a registered nurse, with most of my RN time working on a pediatric inpatient psych unit.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP) with a specific focus on ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, and mood stability management. I have worked with pediatric populations and adults as a PMHNP, along with ages across the lifespan as a registered nurse, with most of my RN time working on a pediatric inpatient psych unit.
Come see us at Mindful Health Solutions. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual, not just the diagnosis. Our treatment goal is the least medications needed to target specific goals, and optimize personal functionality and well-being. We promise to listen, treat you like an integral part of the treatment team and collaborate towards a plan that is best suited for your needs. All care is secured and private. Accepting multiple insurance carriers. Mindful Health now features Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Wenatchee, WA.
Come see us at Mindful Health Solutions. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual, not just the diagnosis. Our treatment goal is the least medications needed to target specific goals, and optimize personal functionality and well-being. We promise to listen, treat you like an integral part of the treatment team and collaborate towards a plan that is best suited for your needs. All care is secured and private. Accepting multiple insurance carriers. Mindful Health now features Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Wenatchee, WA.
Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients: Controlled substances like Stimulants, Suboxone and Benzodiazepines are prescribed in this practice with DEA guidelines. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers.
Accepting New Patients: Controlled substances like Stimulants, Suboxone and Benzodiazepines are prescribed in this practice with DEA guidelines. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers.
As a psychiatric provider, I offer a holistic, therapeutic approach to medication management to individuals from age 6-years and older for various mental health concerns, including mood dysregulation (depression, bipolar); anxiety; neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism); LGBTQIA+ related concerns; trauma; psychosis; and more. I empathize with your mental health and medication experiences and concerns, and I offer support, education, and options related to your unique situation. I come to our sessions informed, willing to listen, learn, and work together to achieve your medication and mental wellness goals.
As a psychiatric provider, I offer a holistic, therapeutic approach to medication management to individuals from age 6-years and older for various mental health concerns, including mood dysregulation (depression, bipolar); anxiety; neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism); LGBTQIA+ related concerns; trauma; psychosis; and more. I empathize with your mental health and medication experiences and concerns, and I offer support, education, and options related to your unique situation. I come to our sessions informed, willing to listen, learn, and work together to achieve your medication and mental wellness goals.
Misty Leigh Hinkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wenatchee, WA 98801 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My name is Misty Hinkle. I am a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As I worked in the hospital as an RN I observed those with medical conditions were provided more compassionate treatment than those with mental health & substance misuse disorders. This prompted me to continue my education, enabling me to become an advocate and a voice for those with mental health & substance misuse disorders.
My name is Misty Hinkle. I am a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As I worked in the hospital as an RN I observed those with medical conditions were provided more compassionate treatment than those with mental health & substance misuse disorders. This prompted me to continue my education, enabling me to become an advocate and a voice for those with mental health & substance misuse disorders.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I integrate both classic (CBT DBT, ERP) and modern therapeutic techniques (IFS, EMDR, somatic) with medication management to offer comprehensive care that focuses on an integrative and holistic model for whole health. With intention, humor, transparency and empathy, I want to create a welcoming and supportive space where you can feel comfortable exploring your world without judgement or stigma. It takes courage to even be on this website seeking help from a sea of providers and it is important to recognize that bravery, stick with it.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I integrate both classic (CBT DBT, ERP) and modern therapeutic techniques (IFS, EMDR, somatic) with medication management to offer comprehensive care that focuses on an integrative and holistic model for whole health. With intention, humor, transparency and empathy, I want to create a welcoming and supportive space where you can feel comfortable exploring your world without judgement or stigma. It takes courage to even be on this website seeking help from a sea of providers and it is important to recognize that bravery, stick with it.
Sharon Clifner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98802
I believe healing and recovery are possible for many mental health conditions. Other mental health concerns can be effectively managed so that you can lead a more fulfilling, and productive life. So many people struggle alone not knowing who to turn to for help with depression, anxiety, trauma, and severe attention deficits that impair success in life. As an empathetic listener and compassionate provider, I can help you in a very sensitive and confidential manner both online and in person with the issues that you are struggling with so that you may achieve a happier more joy filled life.
I believe healing and recovery are possible for many mental health conditions. Other mental health concerns can be effectively managed so that you can lead a more fulfilling, and productive life. So many people struggle alone not knowing who to turn to for help with depression, anxiety, trauma, and severe attention deficits that impair success in life. As an empathetic listener and compassionate provider, I can help you in a very sensitive and confidential manner both online and in person with the issues that you are struggling with so that you may achieve a happier more joy filled life.
Colleen Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801
My practice focuses on treatment-resistant depression and psychoeducation. I have expertise in interventional psychiatric approaches including esketamine and TMS therapy. I believe in building a strong relationship to work towards a common goal of mental wellness.
My practice focuses on treatment-resistant depression and psychoeducation. I have expertise in interventional psychiatric approaches including esketamine and TMS therapy. I believe in building a strong relationship to work towards a common goal of mental wellness.
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98802 (Online Only)
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
Kristine Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98802
Kristine Burns is a doctorally prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-BC). She received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from University of Missouri, Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from University of Illinois, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Illinois Wesleyan University. Kristine has worked in mental health, which has always been her focus and passion, since 1998.
Kristine Burns is a doctorally prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-BC). She received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from University of Missouri, Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from University of Illinois, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Illinois Wesleyan University. Kristine has worked in mental health, which has always been her focus and passion, since 1998.
Online Psychiatrists
Tevon Dubois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
I believe you are the leading expert on yourself. I take the time to get to know you, providing individualized care guided by your values and goals.
I believe you are the leading expert on yourself. I take the time to get to know you, providing individualized care guided by your values and goals.
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.
Elizabeth Macshadiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, and WA.
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, and WA.
Ronke Arogundade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I offer medication management for mental disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders and so much more. I love working with children, teenagers and adults and I am passionate about what I do.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I offer medication management for mental disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders and so much more. I love working with children, teenagers and adults and I am passionate about what I do.
Empathetic Care PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Are you in need of mental health services? Look no further! My name is Derby Rousseau. I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a doctorate in nursing practice, and I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, since November 2020. My goal is to enhance access to high-quality, evidence-based, mental health services for those suffering from mood, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. As such, I provide both in-person and telehealth appointments. My advanced practice philosophy emphasizes patient advocacy, and the provision of empathetic and patient-centered care.
Are you in need of mental health services? Look no further! My name is Derby Rousseau. I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a doctorate in nursing practice, and I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, since November 2020. My goal is to enhance access to high-quality, evidence-based, mental health services for those suffering from mood, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. As such, I provide both in-person and telehealth appointments. My advanced practice philosophy emphasizes patient advocacy, and the provision of empathetic and patient-centered care.
Arsalan Hamid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Introducing Arsalan, a compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a license to practice in Washington. Arsalan's primary goal is to collaborate with individuals, supporting them on their personal journey towards mental well-being. Recognizing the inherent beauty of the human mind, Arsalan approaches care with gentleness and a holistic perspective. Together, you and Arsalan will create treatment goals and develop personalized pathways tailored to your specific needs.
Introducing Arsalan, a compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a license to practice in Washington. Arsalan's primary goal is to collaborate with individuals, supporting them on their personal journey towards mental well-being. Recognizing the inherent beauty of the human mind, Arsalan approaches care with gentleness and a holistic perspective. Together, you and Arsalan will create treatment goals and develop personalized pathways tailored to your specific needs.
Anu Marrott-Ware
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-L, RN
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98296 (Online Only)
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
Jeannette Muamba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
At JM Hope Wellness Services, I understand the unique challenges and aspirations of individuals seeking to unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. My ideal clients are driven to make a positive change in their personal lives, striving to overcome obstacles and embrace growth. If you want to enhance your mental well-being, develop effective strategies for success, and cultivate resilience, you've come to the right place.
At JM Hope Wellness Services, I understand the unique challenges and aspirations of individuals seeking to unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. My ideal clients are driven to make a positive change in their personal lives, striving to overcome obstacles and embrace growth. If you want to enhance your mental well-being, develop effective strategies for success, and cultivate resilience, you've come to the right place.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who graduated from chamberlain university. as I worked as a nurse for 6 years with mental health clients, inpatients, and outpatients. are you struggling with your mental health, we are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. we treat clients with ADHD, Depression, anxiety, bipolar, and many more. my goal is to help my clients where they at, and what they want and we will work together to reach their goals. we are accepting new clients, we are working with most of the insurance.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who graduated from chamberlain university. as I worked as a nurse for 6 years with mental health clients, inpatients, and outpatients. are you struggling with your mental health, we are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. we treat clients with ADHD, Depression, anxiety, bipolar, and many more. my goal is to help my clients where they at, and what they want and we will work together to reach their goals. we are accepting new clients, we are working with most of the insurance.
Currently accepting new telemedicine and in-person clients! I’m 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
Currently accepting new telemedicine and in-person clients! I’m 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
See more therapy options for Wenatchee
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Wenatchee, WA
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Wenatchee, WA who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
90% | Medication Management |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
70% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Wenatchee, WA see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Wenatchee?
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.