Psychiatrists in 97205

Photo of Ka'lesha Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ka'lesha Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97205
Are you searching for holistic, personalized support on your mental health journey? Are you looking for a provider who is inclusive, non-judgmental and affirming? I'm Ka'lesha, your trusted ally in achieving emotional well-being & empowerment. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across all stages of life. I believe in creating a safe & collaborative environment for my clients, utilizing evidence-based practice, a holistic approach, & supportive interventions to maximize treatment benefits and support clients on a deeper level.
Are you searching for holistic, personalized support on your mental health journey? Are you looking for a provider who is inclusive, non-judgmental and affirming? I'm Ka'lesha, your trusted ally in achieving emotional well-being & empowerment. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across all stages of life. I believe in creating a safe & collaborative environment for my clients, utilizing evidence-based practice, a holistic approach, & supportive interventions to maximize treatment benefits and support clients on a deeper level.
(971) 248-7827 View (971) 248-7827
Photo of Heather Hemmeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Heather Hemmeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97205
If you're seeking inclusive psychiatric care in Portland or anywhere in Oregon—especially for anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, or OCD—I offer a compassionate, integrative approach. My background allows me to strategically blend psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to support your goals, whether you’re adjusting to life transitions, navigating chronic illness, or managing emotional overwhelm. I will be here to help you every step of the way!
If you're seeking inclusive psychiatric care in Portland or anywhere in Oregon—especially for anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, or OCD—I offer a compassionate, integrative approach. My background allows me to strategically blend psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to support your goals, whether you’re adjusting to life transitions, navigating chronic illness, or managing emotional overwhelm. I will be here to help you every step of the way!
(971) 260-3492 View (971) 260-3492
Photo of Colby Rauch - Colby Rauch, PMHNP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Colby Rauch, PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97205
I am an experienced Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individual psychotherapy and medication management. I am told by patients they value my warmth and compassion balanced with my straightforward style. At this time, I am only accepting patients who are looking for weekly in-person therapy and medications if indicated. When people receive both therapy and medication from the same person, I feel this leads to better outcomes, less medication, and greater patient satisfaction.
I am an experienced Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individual psychotherapy and medication management. I am told by patients they value my warmth and compassion balanced with my straightforward style. At this time, I am only accepting patients who are looking for weekly in-person therapy and medications if indicated. When people receive both therapy and medication from the same person, I feel this leads to better outcomes, less medication, and greater patient satisfaction.
(971) 414-2730 View (971) 414-2730
Photo of Kelly Witbeck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Kelly Witbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Portland, OR 97205
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
(503) 739-9219 View (503) 739-9219
Photo of Maya Nair, Psychiatrist, MD
Maya Nair
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a safe and accepting space for you to share your unique story to find stability and joy. By supporting you and deepening our understanding of you, your mind and body, and the world around you, we can find short and long term strategies to manage and overcome your symptoms and make progress on your goals. As you process and make meaning out of your life, you become better equipped to address problems in your personal life and career, change how you feel about yourself, and resolve concerns in your relationships.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a safe and accepting space for you to share your unique story to find stability and joy. By supporting you and deepening our understanding of you, your mind and body, and the world around you, we can find short and long term strategies to manage and overcome your symptoms and make progress on your goals. As you process and make meaning out of your life, you become better equipped to address problems in your personal life and career, change how you feel about yourself, and resolve concerns in your relationships.
(503) 741-8724 View (503) 741-8724
Photo of Anne Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anne Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97205
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
(503) 928-6402 View (503) 928-6402
Photo of Kathryn Zerbe, Psychiatrist, MD
Kathryn Zerbe
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97205
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
(971) 255-0043 View (971) 255-0043
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Elena Logvinenko, Psychiatrist, MD
Elena Logvinenko
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland, specializing in integrated psychotherapy and psychopharmacology; I also offer psychiatric eval & med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly. While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (to both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment; many bodies/minds require a more creative or non-algorithmic approach (for any of a number of reasons).
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland, specializing in integrated psychotherapy and psychopharmacology; I also offer psychiatric eval & med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly. While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (to both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment; many bodies/minds require a more creative or non-algorithmic approach (for any of a number of reasons).
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Photo of Olivetta Uradu, Psychiatrist, MD
Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97205
Hello! I'm Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in mental health disorders and have additional expertise treating addiction and women's mental health. I treat a wide range of disorders including anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD and schizophrenia. My approach combines therapy, medication, and education, creating a plan that is unique to you and addresses your needs. Our sessions will explore medication types, skills and techniques that you can use in your daily life, whether it's coping skills for anxiety, new ways to manage your mood, or insights into your relationships and behaviors.
Hello! I'm Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist. I specialize in mental health disorders and have additional expertise treating addiction and women's mental health. I treat a wide range of disorders including anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD and schizophrenia. My approach combines therapy, medication, and education, creating a plan that is unique to you and addresses your needs. Our sessions will explore medication types, skills and techniques that you can use in your daily life, whether it's coping skills for anxiety, new ways to manage your mood, or insights into your relationships and behaviors.
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Photo of Andrea Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Andrea Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
My patient-centered approach prioritizes individual needs and goals, respecting each person's values and experiences. I collaborate with clients to offer evidence-based treatment options, including medication management and integrative therapeutic interventions, to facilitate their mental health journeys. I specialize in adult depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, and I have received additional training in mental health care for women and veterans.
My patient-centered approach prioritizes individual needs and goals, respecting each person's values and experiences. I collaborate with clients to offer evidence-based treatment options, including medication management and integrative therapeutic interventions, to facilitate their mental health journeys. I specialize in adult depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, and I have received additional training in mental health care for women and veterans.
(971) 318-5525 View (971) 318-5525
Photo of Dr. Lana Weber, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lana Weber
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates neurodevelopmental, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan. I offer consultation to therapists and other clinicians to clarify diagnosis.
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates neurodevelopmental, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan. I offer consultation to therapists and other clinicians to clarify diagnosis.
(971) 247-3289 View (971) 247-3289
Soroush Mohandessi
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Portland, OR 97205
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available and accepting new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available and accepting new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
(971) 715-2826 View (971) 715-2826
Photo of Kelli L Holloway, Psychiatrist, MD
Kelli L Holloway
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97205
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
(971) 339-3104 View (971) 339-3104
Photo of Njideka Nj Domrufus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Njideka Nj Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 224-7994 View (971) 224-7994
Photo of Brian Pollock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brian Pollock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97205
If you're looking for inclusive psychiatric care in Portland or other areas in Oregon, and you need support managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma, I offer a collaborative approach that integrates medication management and evidence-based therapies, Whether you’re navigating health challenges, identity exploration, or emotional overwhelm, we’ll create a plan rooted in your strengths and values. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing since 2008, I am committed to providing affirming care to individuals from all backgrounds.
If you're looking for inclusive psychiatric care in Portland or other areas in Oregon, and you need support managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma, I offer a collaborative approach that integrates medication management and evidence-based therapies, Whether you’re navigating health challenges, identity exploration, or emotional overwhelm, we’ll create a plan rooted in your strengths and values. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practicing since 2008, I am committed to providing affirming care to individuals from all backgrounds.
(971) 247-3643 x1 View (971) 247-3643 x1
Photo of Jeffery Wise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jeffery Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too! For those on the path of personal transformation, I am here for you.
Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too! For those on the path of personal transformation, I am here for you.
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Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP-BC
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP-BC
Portland, OR 97205
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
(971) 314-6635 View (971) 314-6635
Diana S Domnitei
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97205
I provide compassionate care and consider the whole person when developing treatment plans. Evaluation begins with a comprehensive assessment, including past psychiatric history, family and medical history, to determine if medication is indicated. I maintain the most up to date knowledge on medications and potential side effects. I provide support with insight and feedback to help patients address current concerns and life issues. Most often psychotherapy is the mainstay of treatment. I use psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and solution focused psychotherapies in my work with patients. I also emphasize mindfulness and healthy lifestyle choices.
I provide compassionate care and consider the whole person when developing treatment plans. Evaluation begins with a comprehensive assessment, including past psychiatric history, family and medical history, to determine if medication is indicated. I maintain the most up to date knowledge on medications and potential side effects. I provide support with insight and feedback to help patients address current concerns and life issues. Most often psychotherapy is the mainstay of treatment. I use psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and solution focused psychotherapies in my work with patients. I also emphasize mindfulness and healthy lifestyle choices.
(503) 461-5595 View (503) 461-5595
Photo of Dr. Reid Zweifel, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Reid Zweifel
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97205
I treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions and have particular interest in anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, trauma, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. I work with adults from diverse cultural, spiritual, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
I treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions and have particular interest in anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, trauma, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. I work with adults from diverse cultural, spiritual, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
(971) 626-4674 View (971) 626-4674

See more therapy options for 97205

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 97205

40+

Average cost per session

$235

Psychiatrists in 97205 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
92% Anxiety
71% ADHD
71% Bipolar Disorder
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Medication Management
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
63% Regence

How Psychiatrists in 97205 see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 97205?

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.