Psychiatrists in 97146

Photo of Carol Crowe, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carol Crowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, OR 97146
Not accepting new clients
As a Nurse Practitioner with a focus on psychiatry, I began my healthcare career in 2006 as an RN, progressing through degrees at OHSU, Vanderbilt, George Washington University to specialize in mental health prescriptions. I independently prescribe medications to all of Oregon state.
As a Nurse Practitioner with a focus on psychiatry, I began my healthcare career in 2006 as an RN, progressing through degrees at OHSU, Vanderbilt, George Washington University to specialize in mental health prescriptions. I independently prescribe medications to all of Oregon state.
(503) 946-3621 View (503) 946-3621

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Erin S Fitzgerald - Healing Harbor Psychiatry LLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Harbor Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Erin Fitzgerald and I am a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP/PMHNP). My experience in medicine began in 1987, and I have cared for patients from newborn to the elderly. I have worked in Pain Management, Palliative Care, Hospice and Psychiatric Care for over thirty years. As a PMHNP I have expertise treating numerous mental health disorders. I am proficient in utilizing the most up-to-date, evidenced-based care to assess, diagnose and treat depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD, and more. I am prepared to help you reach your personal wellness goals.
My name is Erin Fitzgerald and I am a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP/PMHNP). My experience in medicine began in 1987, and I have cared for patients from newborn to the elderly. I have worked in Pain Management, Palliative Care, Hospice and Psychiatric Care for over thirty years. As a PMHNP I have expertise treating numerous mental health disorders. I am proficient in utilizing the most up-to-date, evidenced-based care to assess, diagnose and treat depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD, and more. I am prepared to help you reach your personal wellness goals.
(541) 348-8370 View (541) 348-8370
Photo of Yvonne Amune - SOL Care Clinic, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SOL Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seaside, OR 97138
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(503) 843-8708 View (503) 843-8708
Photo of Jackie Welborn, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jackie Welborn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Jackie (Jacquelyn) Welborn, PMHNP holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. She graduated from Gonzaga University in 2019 after working in both the Hammond/Warrenton School District and for Seaside Providence Hospital. As a PMHNP, her focus is diagnosing and prescribing medications for mental health disorders. Please call the office or fill out a secure contact form on our website to request an appointment. All inquiries must go through our main office.
Jackie (Jacquelyn) Welborn, PMHNP holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. She graduated from Gonzaga University in 2019 after working in both the Hammond/Warrenton School District and for Seaside Providence Hospital. As a PMHNP, her focus is diagnosing and prescribing medications for mental health disorders. Please call the office or fill out a secure contact form on our website to request an appointment. All inquiries must go through our main office.
(503) 610-4079 View (503) 610-4079
Photo of Jill C. Gladish, MD, MPH, ABPN, Psychiatrist
Jill C. Gladish
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, ABPN
Verified Verified
Online Only
My approach to treatment focuses on medication management associated with practical supportive psychotherapy and lifestyle/behavioral modifications. I have trained extensively here in the U.S., Australia and Switzerland. I pride myself on being straightforward and down to earth. I work to find a treatment approach that is symptom focused, practical and specific to your needs.
My approach to treatment focuses on medication management associated with practical supportive psychotherapy and lifestyle/behavioral modifications. I have trained extensively here in the U.S., Australia and Switzerland. I pride myself on being straightforward and down to earth. I work to find a treatment approach that is symptom focused, practical and specific to your needs.
(503) 563-7431 View (503) 563-7431

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Megan Lewis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, adult ADHD testing. I also provide innovative alternative treatments for depression such as TMS Therapy and Eskatmine Nasal Treatment. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, My goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, adult ADHD testing. I also provide innovative alternative treatments for depression such as TMS Therapy and Eskatmine Nasal Treatment. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, My goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
(971) 318-5230 View (971) 318-5230
Photo of Julie Peterson - Pillars Mental Health , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pillars Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our provider, Julie Peterson, PMHNP, is a board certified Family-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has training and experience treating mental health/psychiatric conditions in all ages. However, she is currently seeing ages 13 and older. She has experience treating a full spectrum of psychiatric conditions. At Pillars Mental Health, she is providing telehealth services for those living in Oregon and Washington. Julie is from the Pacific NW and has worked in the area for 24 years as a nurse and 10 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. She knows our community.
Our provider, Julie Peterson, PMHNP, is a board certified Family-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has training and experience treating mental health/psychiatric conditions in all ages. However, she is currently seeing ages 13 and older. She has experience treating a full spectrum of psychiatric conditions. At Pillars Mental Health, she is providing telehealth services for those living in Oregon and Washington. Julie is from the Pacific NW and has worked in the area for 24 years as a nurse and 10 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. She knows our community.
(360) 654-7980 View (360) 654-7980
Photo of Julee Kim, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julee Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Currently accepting new patients! I believe that the foundation of effective mental health care lies in compassion and collaboration. I approach every patient with genuine empathy, recognizing the unique challenges they face. I aim to create a safe space where patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. By working together, we can develop holistic treatment plans that resonate with their values and aspirations. I am dedicated to providing thorough psychoeducation, explaining the intricacies of diagnoses, treatment options, and potential outcomes.
Currently accepting new patients! I believe that the foundation of effective mental health care lies in compassion and collaboration. I approach every patient with genuine empathy, recognizing the unique challenges they face. I aim to create a safe space where patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. By working together, we can develop holistic treatment plans that resonate with their values and aspirations. I am dedicated to providing thorough psychoeducation, explaining the intricacies of diagnoses, treatment options, and potential outcomes.
(503) 809-5829 View (503) 809-5829
Photo of Alyssa Aurisy, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alyssa Aurisy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with clients from all walks of life. I treat the breadth of mental health challenges with thoughtful, evidence based medication management and adjunctive psychotherapy. I consider the whole person rather than their cluster of symptoms and provide education and pharmacological interventions that meet clients goals and account for their preferences. I believe in a collaborative approach and welcome input from therapists and other providers on the team.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with clients from all walks of life. I treat the breadth of mental health challenges with thoughtful, evidence based medication management and adjunctive psychotherapy. I consider the whole person rather than their cluster of symptoms and provide education and pharmacological interventions that meet clients goals and account for their preferences. I believe in a collaborative approach and welcome input from therapists and other providers on the team.
(503) 487-5819 View (503) 487-5819
Photo of Crystal Marshall, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I’m Crystal Marshall, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I value holistic, outcome-based care, empowering clients to be active participants in their treatment by understanding their options and needs. I graduated from Frontier Nursing University and trained at Valley Behavioral Health in Utah, where I gained invaluable experience in community mental health.
Hi, I’m Crystal Marshall, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I value holistic, outcome-based care, empowering clients to be active participants in their treatment by understanding their options and needs. I graduated from Frontier Nursing University and trained at Valley Behavioral Health in Utah, where I gained invaluable experience in community mental health.
(971) 328-4355 View (971) 328-4355
Photo of Amy Jensen, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
(916) 409-3052 View (916) 409-3052
Photo of Adam C Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam C Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
(971) 414-3501 x2 View (971) 414-3501 x2
Photo of Charisa King, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charisa King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to individuals navigating the complexities of mental health. With expertise spanning over 13 years in the field, I specialize in addressing challenges related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and bipolar disorder.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to individuals navigating the complexities of mental health. With expertise spanning over 13 years in the field, I specialize in addressing challenges related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and bipolar disorder.
(971) 265-6282 View (971) 265-6282
Photo of Peri Mayes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peri Mayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I'm Peri Mayes, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of experience in psychiatric nursing and a degree in psychology. I believe you should be at the center of your care plan, and together we'll collaborate to help you achieve your best life. I work with all diagnoses at different stages of the lifespan, subject to safety limitations inherent to telehealth.
Hello! I'm Peri Mayes, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of experience in psychiatric nursing and a degree in psychology. I believe you should be at the center of your care plan, and together we'll collaborate to help you achieve your best life. I work with all diagnoses at different stages of the lifespan, subject to safety limitations inherent to telehealth.
(971) 791-2757 View (971) 791-2757
Photo of Jacob Kirkwood, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacob Kirkwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
Jake will take time to get to know the individual needs of his clients. He can offer them medication management and multiple modalities of psychotherapy. In his spare time, Jake has a blast taking trips with his family. He and his wife have four kids and a golden retriever named Scout. They are consumed with sporting events, art classes, and playing with friends. It’s a loud and chaotic household and Jake wouldn’t have it any other way.
Jake will take time to get to know the individual needs of his clients. He can offer them medication management and multiple modalities of psychotherapy. In his spare time, Jake has a blast taking trips with his family. He and his wife have four kids and a golden retriever named Scout. They are consumed with sporting events, art classes, and playing with friends. It’s a loud and chaotic household and Jake wouldn’t have it any other way.
(971) 216-3817 View (971) 216-3817
Photo of Giovanni Pascal Pierre, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Giovanni Pascal Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home. Safe Haven Health specializes in mental health medication management, at-home ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety, ADHD testing and treatment, and more.
Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home. Safe Haven Health specializes in mental health medication management, at-home ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety, ADHD testing and treatment, and more.
(503) 676-5313 View (503) 676-5313
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(503) 461-8744 View (503) 461-8744
Photo of Cayley Mesterheide, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Cayley Mesterheide
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
(971) 252-5964 View (971) 252-5964
Photo of Ablavi Agomessou - Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
(678) 922-4240 View (678) 922-4240
Photo of Aaron Friedman, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aaron Friedman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Gladstone, OR 97027
Aaron Friedman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oregon who has been practicing since 2023. Being human can be hard. Aaron believes in partnering with his clients to find the best medication to support them on life’s path. He is often described as a kind, compassionate, good listener. He specializes in medication management for adults with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, chronic mental illness, and neurodivergent disorders.
Aaron Friedman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Oregon who has been practicing since 2023. Being human can be hard. Aaron believes in partnering with his clients to find the best medication to support them on life’s path. He is often described as a kind, compassionate, good listener. He specializes in medication management for adults with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, chronic mental illness, and neurodivergent disorders.
(971) 458-5566 View (971) 458-5566

See more therapy options for 97146

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 97146

< 10

Psychiatrists in 97146 who prioritize treating:

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 97146 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 97146?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.