Psychiatrists in Woodland, WA
![Photo of Debra Achenbach, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c81fb2b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed ARNP in Washington State with a specialty in psychiatry I prescribe medications to assist you in overcoming the challenges you face. I strive to provide a comfortable space where you can explore your concerns with a compassionate and objective other; and access the resilience that I believe lies within us all. Clients see me for issues related to stress and life transition, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma and bipolar mood disorders. I am accepting new clients.
As a licensed ARNP in Washington State with a specialty in psychiatry I prescribe medications to assist you in overcoming the challenges you face. I strive to provide a comfortable space where you can explore your concerns with a compassionate and objective other; and access the resilience that I believe lies within us all. Clients see me for issues related to stress and life transition, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma and bipolar mood disorders. I am accepting new clients.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Piper Buersmeyer - Med Rx Partners, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c3a74c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Med Rx Partners
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, WA 98642 (Online Only)
Appointments available in 1 week. Open in both Vancouver, WA and Tigard, OR. Med Rx Partners provides direct access to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners for medication management for nearly all conditions. Serving the community for 14+ years with 9 providers who all collaborate to provide you the best care possible. Our admin team and providers rapidly respond through our phone/text platform so you will always feel supported and taken care of.
Appointments available in 1 week. Open in both Vancouver, WA and Tigard, OR. Med Rx Partners provides direct access to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners for medication management for nearly all conditions. Serving the community for 14+ years with 9 providers who all collaborate to provide you the best care possible. Our admin team and providers rapidly respond through our phone/text platform so you will always feel supported and taken care of.
![Photo of Lisa K. Rodriguez, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c51dbf5-77e9-43e7-97ba-669d32f976f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa K. Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Battle Ground, WA 98604
CurrentIy accepting new clients. I see patients both via tele-health and in-person in Vancouver, Washington. I feel it is an honor to work alongside clients on their personal journey to mental health and wellness. It is important for me to understand what a client's primary goal is for treatment, what their past experiences have been, what personal strengths they possess, and what their value systems are. Above all, I hope to work with clients in a way that is meaningful and that positively impacts their daily lives. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and willing to meet me halfway in our work together.
CurrentIy accepting new clients. I see patients both via tele-health and in-person in Vancouver, Washington. I feel it is an honor to work alongside clients on their personal journey to mental health and wellness. It is important for me to understand what a client's primary goal is for treatment, what their past experiences have been, what personal strengths they possess, and what their value systems are. Above all, I hope to work with clients in a way that is meaningful and that positively impacts their daily lives. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and willing to meet me halfway in our work together.
![Photo of Karen Suzanne McNulty, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7c2ccf5-0657-4779-90b0-1ec587cfcb33/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Adrian Davis - Saje Psychiatry LLC - Dr. Adrian Davis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/183c7cf4-bfad-485b-8bad-6858bb7e52d5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Saje Psychiatry LLC - Dr. Adrian Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98409 (Online Only)
Dr. Adrian Davis is a national board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has a strong belief in holistic care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities, including psychotropic medications, TMS therapy, and evidence-based alternative treatments such as nutritional supplementation as well as lifestyle/diet modifications. She specializes in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Trauma and PTSD.
Dr. Adrian Davis is a national board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has a strong belief in holistic care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities, including psychotropic medications, TMS therapy, and evidence-based alternative treatments such as nutritional supplementation as well as lifestyle/diet modifications. She specializes in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Trauma and PTSD.
![Photo of Vanessa Ngea, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/223a668d-9641-4dd2-b652-4de40a3046cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Ngea, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. She believes in a collaborative approach that values the voice of the client, ensuring that each individual's mental health journey is respected and addressed. Vanessa's passion lies in helping those with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. By applying an empathetic and holistic approach, she aims to support clients in achieving their best mental health.
Vanessa Ngea, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. She believes in a collaborative approach that values the voice of the client, ensuring that each individual's mental health journey is respected and addressed. Vanessa's passion lies in helping those with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. By applying an empathetic and holistic approach, she aims to support clients in achieving their best mental health.
![Photo of Kristine Simpson, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9191ed4c-94e1-4207-81f1-887807b4fca2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristine Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
![Photo of David Califf, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/258ab7b0-2d9d-4259-8d6a-9add61224423/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Califf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
David is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a Doctorate in Nursing from Washington State University. David cares for patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia and panic disorders.
David is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a Doctorate in Nursing from Washington State University. David cares for patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia and panic disorders.
![Photo of Holly Brezynski, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62f38dc8-a956-42dd-abdf-eb05d33ac973/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Brezynski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fife, WA 98424 (Online Only)
Holly is a Washington State board-certified nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree specializing in psychiatry practicing at Wapato Creek Health and Wellness. She offers evidence-based trauma-informed diagnoses of mental health conditions with focuses on depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD for individuals aged 18 through 65. Please note, I am not taking Apple Health patients at this time.
Holly is a Washington State board-certified nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree specializing in psychiatry practicing at Wapato Creek Health and Wellness. She offers evidence-based trauma-informed diagnoses of mental health conditions with focuses on depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD for individuals aged 18 through 65. Please note, I am not taking Apple Health patients at this time.
![Photo of Tatiana Pritchard - Vancouver ADHD and Mood Clinic, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, ADHD-CS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f655ec1c-2033-4329-9c65-605f938eb651/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vancouver ADHD and Mood Clinic, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, ADHD-CS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98685
Vancouver ADHD and Mood Clinic, PLLC specializes in providing comprehensive mental health support to neurodivergent persons, including people with ADHD and Autism. You can expect neurodivergence-affirming care, careful, compassionate medication monitoring, and support, executive skills training by specializing therapists, and a neurofeedback option! You can also expect appropriate, timely prescriptions and attentive listening from genuinely caring providers. We work with adults and children age 6 and older in Washington and Oregon. Please visit our website for more!
Vancouver ADHD and Mood Clinic, PLLC specializes in providing comprehensive mental health support to neurodivergent persons, including people with ADHD and Autism. You can expect neurodivergence-affirming care, careful, compassionate medication monitoring, and support, executive skills training by specializing therapists, and a neurofeedback option! You can also expect appropriate, timely prescriptions and attentive listening from genuinely caring providers. We work with adults and children age 6 and older in Washington and Oregon. Please visit our website for more!
![Photo of Gabriela A Guizar, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ea92630-89ab-44af-b452-b74d61815ae2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriela A Guizar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
Gabriela is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who centers her practice around kindness, curiosity, and mutual respect. She utilizes non-judgmental, empathetic listening to form the foundation of a therapeutic partnership and believes that everyone is capable of wellness when given access the right resources. As a psychiatric provider, Gabriela aims to foster growth and healing by creating a safe and affirming space where clients can exist as their authentic selves.
Gabriela is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who centers her practice around kindness, curiosity, and mutual respect. She utilizes non-judgmental, empathetic listening to form the foundation of a therapeutic partnership and believes that everyone is capable of wellness when given access the right resources. As a psychiatric provider, Gabriela aims to foster growth and healing by creating a safe and affirming space where clients can exist as their authentic selves.
![Photo of Kourtney Tapnio - Ohana Holistic Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6ff8fb4-a11e-4b0d-b5c7-5ccdd1861b19/1/320x400.png)
Ohana Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
September 2024, Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I'm Kourtney Tapnio, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep-seated commitment to providing holistic and empathetic care in the realm of mental health. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in devising comprehensive treatment plans that address the individual needs of my patients, ensuring a balanced approach to mental wellness. My practice is built on the cornerstone of compassion and the relentless pursuit of understanding the unique challenges faced by each person I have the privilege to work with.
September 2024, Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I'm Kourtney Tapnio, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep-seated commitment to providing holistic and empathetic care in the realm of mental health. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in devising comprehensive treatment plans that address the individual needs of my patients, ensuring a balanced approach to mental wellness. My practice is built on the cornerstone of compassion and the relentless pursuit of understanding the unique challenges faced by each person I have the privilege to work with.
![Photo of Larisa Sopka, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce537ddc-f079-474f-88ec-4cb2535f5dac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larisa Sopka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
My primary areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, depression, and more. I heavily lean on mindfulness, spirituality, mind-body connection, creativity, and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psycho-education, humanistic approach, and solution-focused therapy. Additionally, I use medication management to help my patients. In deciding the best medications, I utilize psychotropic pharmocogenomic testing, a genetic test that shows how your genes may affect medication outcomes.
My primary areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, depression, and more. I heavily lean on mindfulness, spirituality, mind-body connection, creativity, and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psycho-education, humanistic approach, and solution-focused therapy. Additionally, I use medication management to help my patients. In deciding the best medications, I utilize psychotropic pharmocogenomic testing, a genetic test that shows how your genes may affect medication outcomes.
![Photo of Dr. Crystal Joyette Hopkins, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99b62dc1-a121-4ce6-b32e-26012e2ea3f9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Crystal Joyette Hopkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
Every person is an individual. All clients deserve mental health care tailored to the individual that is seeking care. My goal for every client is to improve their mood and overall health by providing compassionate mental and medical health care.
Every person is an individual. All clients deserve mental health care tailored to the individual that is seeking care. My goal for every client is to improve their mood and overall health by providing compassionate mental and medical health care.
![Photo of Geleen Salcedo, DPT, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6263c8f3-ba1b-4e8e-9542-88989824c9a7/2/320x400.png)
Geleen Salcedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPT, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405 (Online Only)
Ever felt like your emotions are a puzzle that doesn't quite fit? Or wondered why focus and motivation sometimes play hard to get? Let's tackle those questions together. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy in life. Struggling to kick-start your mornings or find the energy to face the day? Wrestling with overwhelming emotions that appear out of nowhere? Finding restful sleep elusive, leaving you drained? Lingering thoughts putting you on edge? Let's put these challenges to rest. If your mind feels like a racecar on an endless track, and handling intense emotions is like catching a whirlwind, you're not alone. I can be your guide.
Ever felt like your emotions are a puzzle that doesn't quite fit? Or wondered why focus and motivation sometimes play hard to get? Let's tackle those questions together. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy in life. Struggling to kick-start your mornings or find the energy to face the day? Wrestling with overwhelming emotions that appear out of nowhere? Finding restful sleep elusive, leaving you drained? Lingering thoughts putting you on edge? Let's put these challenges to rest. If your mind feels like a racecar on an endless track, and handling intense emotions is like catching a whirlwind, you're not alone. I can be your guide.
![Photo of Dr. Valerica Ene-Stroescu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19d77212-ad16-4cd3-8ae3-b1f858c15029/1/320x400.jpeg)
During my 21 years of practicing psychiatry, I have seen how integrative the bio-psycho-social and spiritual approach is to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions. Addressing the complexities of genetic predispositions, childhood experiences, social relations and spiritual aspects is at the core of this model and defines how I practice psychiatry. I have worked almost 20 years in a state psychiatric hospital helping those with the most severe and devastating psychiatric illnesses. I am expanding now the focus of my work to include those in an outpatient setting using the newest treatment modalities.
During my 21 years of practicing psychiatry, I have seen how integrative the bio-psycho-social and spiritual approach is to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions. Addressing the complexities of genetic predispositions, childhood experiences, social relations and spiritual aspects is at the core of this model and defines how I practice psychiatry. I have worked almost 20 years in a state psychiatric hospital helping those with the most severe and devastating psychiatric illnesses. I am expanding now the focus of my work to include those in an outpatient setting using the newest treatment modalities.
![Photo of Grant L Beloof, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8862f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I hold certification General Adult Psychiatry as well as in Integrative and Holistic Medicine and was trained in the bio-psycho-social model of human development. I offer primarily medication management and will enjoy working in coordination with your usual therapist and when necessary, with physicians of other specialties. I often incorporate knowledge from my integrative and holistic background, including Asian theories of health, with more conventional care of patients. My preferred style of medication management is to carefully seek the lowest doses that are still consistent with full return of function.
I hold certification General Adult Psychiatry as well as in Integrative and Holistic Medicine and was trained in the bio-psycho-social model of human development. I offer primarily medication management and will enjoy working in coordination with your usual therapist and when necessary, with physicians of other specialties. I often incorporate knowledge from my integrative and holistic background, including Asian theories of health, with more conventional care of patients. My preferred style of medication management is to carefully seek the lowest doses that are still consistent with full return of function.
![Photo of Laurie A Womack, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6114ba-575b-4fe2-8a70-340fdde84c26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Focused on treating clients dealing with mental illness. Working closely with clients to resolve issues and maintain wellness. Licensed in Oregon, Washington, and Florida.
Focused on treating clients dealing with mental illness. Working closely with clients to resolve issues and maintain wellness. Licensed in Oregon, Washington, and Florida.
![Photo of Jennifer A Rubio, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d35f74e5-4cf7-42c7-afa4-75ef0f7343b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer A Rubio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), licensed as an ARNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Washington. I am currently accepting adult and pediatric patients. I typically focus my practice on older children and adolescents ages 8-20. I specialize in psychiatric assessments and diagnostics in tandem with psychiatric medication management while providing brief psychotherapy and psycho-education to patients and their families.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), licensed as an ARNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Washington. I am currently accepting adult and pediatric patients. I typically focus my practice on older children and adolescents ages 8-20. I specialize in psychiatric assessments and diagnostics in tandem with psychiatric medication management while providing brief psychotherapy and psycho-education to patients and their families.
See more therapy options for Woodland
Nearby Searches for Woodland
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Woodland, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Woodland, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
50% | Moda Health |
How Psychiatrists in Woodland, WA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Woodland?
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.