Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.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 Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Colleen Coyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.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 Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.
My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.
Janelle Yim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
Currently ACCEPTing NEW patients: (make an appointment on the website - www.telemyvisit.com.) Looking after your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health to reach overall well-being. Many people suffer from depression or other mental health problems that affect their lives, and yet they often struggle to reach out for help. Mental health conditions are common, and you are not alone in this. Whether you know that you live with a long-term mental illness or you are not sure what's causing your symptoms, I can help you find hope.
Currently ACCEPTing NEW patients: (make an appointment on the website - www.telemyvisit.com.) Looking after your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health to reach overall well-being. Many people suffer from depression or other mental health problems that affect their lives, and yet they often struggle to reach out for help. Mental health conditions are common, and you are not alone in this. Whether you know that you live with a long-term mental illness or you are not sure what's causing your symptoms, I can help you find hope.
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization. Her approach to psychiatric care includes the utilization of an integrative approach to treating a variety of mental health conditions. A life coach within our practice is sometimes recommended alongside therapy to holistically address the psychosocial needs of our clients.
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization. Her approach to psychiatric care includes the utilization of an integrative approach to treating a variety of mental health conditions. A life coach within our practice is sometimes recommended alongside therapy to holistically address the psychosocial needs of our clients.
Sandra Fisher ARNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnosis and supportive therapy for adults of all ages and gender. I also prescribe medication. My first goal in this process will be to get to know you and your story so that we can decide together what would be best for you and your specific situation/symptoms. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help you make informed decisions regarding treatment and symptom management, which can include medication. Medication can be a helpful tool for treatment of mental health concerns. I enjoy positive and supportive relationships with my current clients and I look forward to meeting you.
I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnosis and supportive therapy for adults of all ages and gender. I also prescribe medication. My first goal in this process will be to get to know you and your story so that we can decide together what would be best for you and your specific situation/symptoms. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help you make informed decisions regarding treatment and symptom management, which can include medication. Medication can be a helpful tool for treatment of mental health concerns. I enjoy positive and supportive relationships with my current clients and I look forward to meeting you.
Solidarity Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121
Welcome! Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel self-doubt, guilt, or stuck in the past? Do you lack the focus and motivation required to meet your goals in school or work? Dr. Renia Smith provides online and in-person evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Smith is an expert mental health provider who works with children, adolescents, and adults.
Welcome! Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel self-doubt, guilt, or stuck in the past? Do you lack the focus and motivation required to meet your goals in school or work? Dr. Renia Smith provides online and in-person evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Smith is an expert mental health provider who works with children, adolescents, and adults.
Magdalene Care Psychiatry and Family Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
It is essential to recognize that each client’s experience with mental health is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. An ideal client for psychiatric mental health services may present with a range of mental health concerns that require prompt and tailored intervention to deliver the most effective therapy possible. As mental health providers, we want to help each person based on what they need and assist them in reaching their goals, by using evidence-based practice. Also, creating a strong connection based on trust and understanding is important for making a safe place for healing.
It is essential to recognize that each client’s experience with mental health is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. An ideal client for psychiatric mental health services may present with a range of mental health concerns that require prompt and tailored intervention to deliver the most effective therapy possible. As mental health providers, we want to help each person based on what they need and assist them in reaching their goals, by using evidence-based practice. Also, creating a strong connection based on trust and understanding is important for making a safe place for healing.
Accepting New Patients. We provides supportive and empathic medication management for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression and ADHD for both Kids and Adults. We strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. We have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and developmental pediatrics.
Accepting New Patients. We provides supportive and empathic medication management for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression and ADHD for both Kids and Adults. We strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. We have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and developmental pediatrics.
Ashley Harmon, M.D. PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
Not accepting new clients
Symptoms and diagnoses do not define who we are. Mental health is more than symptom reduction, and there are mulitple ways of understanding their powerful impact on our lives. Addressing root causes leads to mental health. Through connection, curiosity, and collaboration, we create practical treatment plans based on your lived experience, neurobiology, and personal mental health goals. Increasing self-awareness and compassion empowers and promotes resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. I am honored to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Symptoms and diagnoses do not define who we are. Mental health is more than symptom reduction, and there are mulitple ways of understanding their powerful impact on our lives. Addressing root causes leads to mental health. Through connection, curiosity, and collaboration, we create practical treatment plans based on your lived experience, neurobiology, and personal mental health goals. Increasing self-awareness and compassion empowers and promotes resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. I am honored to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
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Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Afsheen Masood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, AGACNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
I handle client issues related to mental health, chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, as well as the need for preventive care through healthier lifestyle choices. My clients are keen on taking an active role in their health and wellness, aiming to maintain or improve their overall health, prevent disease, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek personalized, compassionate care that addresses their individual needs, understanding the importance of a tailored approach to health and well-being.
I handle client issues related to mental health, chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, as well as the need for preventive care through healthier lifestyle choices. My clients are keen on taking an active role in their health and wellness, aiming to maintain or improve their overall health, prevent disease, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek personalized, compassionate care that addresses their individual needs, understanding the importance of a tailored approach to health and well-being.
I have been a Psychiatric NP for 15 years, treating Adult ADHD, Alcohol Use Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, and Panic attacks. I specialize in medication management and mindfulness meditation. I lived in a Zen monastery for six months and practice daily in my personal life. I am a certified tree-hugger, lover of music (rhythm-based; Celtic), avid reader, and long-distance hiker/walker.
I have been a Psychiatric NP for 15 years, treating Adult ADHD, Alcohol Use Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, and Panic attacks. I specialize in medication management and mindfulness meditation. I lived in a Zen monastery for six months and practice daily in my personal life. I am a certified tree-hugger, lover of music (rhythm-based; Celtic), avid reader, and long-distance hiker/walker.
Robyn Bennetts
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98168 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority for individuals of all ages. I have 18 years of experience in a variety of settings. I provide medication management with brief supportive therapy. My goal is to help people at all stages of development achieve their greatest potential. It is my strong belief that biology, psychology, and social circumstances shape our experiences and how we react to our environment.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority for individuals of all ages. I have 18 years of experience in a variety of settings. I provide medication management with brief supportive therapy. My goal is to help people at all stages of development achieve their greatest potential. It is my strong belief that biology, psychology, and social circumstances shape our experiences and how we react to our environment.
I am a licensed psychiatrist with a particular interest in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. The minds and characters of people are infinitely varied and complex. This creates subtle but vital differences in the way that any two people manifest problematic thoughts, emotions, or behaviors. Consequently, I believe that effective treatment requires a genuine understanding and appreciation of the person seeking assistance, not just rout knowledge of the symptoms for which he or she seeks help. Psychotherapy aims to deepen an individual's self-awareness. Greater insight can decrease painful symptoms, resolve problematic patterns of behavior, and cultivate meaning in life.
I am a licensed psychiatrist with a particular interest in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. The minds and characters of people are infinitely varied and complex. This creates subtle but vital differences in the way that any two people manifest problematic thoughts, emotions, or behaviors. Consequently, I believe that effective treatment requires a genuine understanding and appreciation of the person seeking assistance, not just rout knowledge of the symptoms for which he or she seeks help. Psychotherapy aims to deepen an individual's self-awareness. Greater insight can decrease painful symptoms, resolve problematic patterns of behavior, and cultivate meaning in life.
Latosha Katrice Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
It is essential for me to establish rapport and trust to provide quality care to patients as well as address the patient's issues and needs. As a parent of a child with special needs, I understand the need to be heard, to be seen, and to be acknowledged. Also, being authentic, genuine, and true are important aspects that I will bring to the table. I want clients to know there is no judgment here only an open door policy where people can freely express themselves in a safe environment. My goal is to help you be the best person you can be.
It is essential for me to establish rapport and trust to provide quality care to patients as well as address the patient's issues and needs. As a parent of a child with special needs, I understand the need to be heard, to be seen, and to be acknowledged. Also, being authentic, genuine, and true are important aspects that I will bring to the table. I want clients to know there is no judgment here only an open door policy where people can freely express themselves in a safe environment. My goal is to help you be the best person you can be.
Anna Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Dr. Matias Massaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Welcome. By visiting this page, you may be acknowledging that something in your life needs to change, and that’s a brave first step. Many of us go through life in “hard mode,” as if we’re walking with Lego pieces in our shoes—feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to move forward. But it doesn’t have to be that way. I’m here to collaborate with you on your healing journey, helping you navigate a path toward a life that doesn’t feel like a daily struggle.
Welcome. By visiting this page, you may be acknowledging that something in your life needs to change, and that’s a brave first step. Many of us go through life in “hard mode,” as if we’re walking with Lego pieces in our shoes—feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to move forward. But it doesn’t have to be that way. I’m here to collaborate with you on your healing journey, helping you navigate a path toward a life that doesn’t feel like a daily struggle.
All are welcome here. We all live with problems: and they need not define us. I provide proven treatments to help patients access wellness and recovery. You have choices here. Since there are many paths of wellness and recovery, I recommend evidence-proven options to help you experience health, hope, and meaning your way.
All are welcome here. We all live with problems: and they need not define us. I provide proven treatments to help patients access wellness and recovery. You have choices here. Since there are many paths of wellness and recovery, I recommend evidence-proven options to help you experience health, hope, and meaning your way.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
84% | Medication Management |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
64% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.