Psychiatrists in 97209

Photo of Michelle J Roberts, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle J Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
(971) 407-5284 View (971) 407-5284
Photo of Brent Frazee, MD, Psychiatrist
Brent Frazee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
(503) 342-7723 View (503) 342-7723
Photo of John Robert Kratzer, MD, Psychiatrist
John Robert Kratzer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Are you in the middle of a life transition? Are you looking for ways to open up your heart and soul so you can have more purpose and meaning in your life? Would you like help in building skills to be more present and peaceful in your day to day life? Would you like to experience healing as part of a larger community? Do you want to put your psychological concerns and symptoms in a broader context? I would like to help you discover your souls place in the world so you can live a life that accords to your values, is purposeful and meaningful and helps to integrate all of this with your childhood experiences.
Are you in the middle of a life transition? Are you looking for ways to open up your heart and soul so you can have more purpose and meaning in your life? Would you like help in building skills to be more present and peaceful in your day to day life? Would you like to experience healing as part of a larger community? Do you want to put your psychological concerns and symptoms in a broader context? I would like to help you discover your souls place in the world so you can live a life that accords to your values, is purposeful and meaningful and helps to integrate all of this with your childhood experiences.
(971) 290-4744 View (971) 290-4744
Photo of Hannah Frazee, PA, Physician Assistant
Hannah Frazee
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
(971) 206-3110 View (971) 206-3110
Photo of Nancy Masters, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 18+ in Oregon and Washington.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 18+ in Oregon and Washington.
(971) 318-2448 x2 View (971) 318-2448 x2
Photo of Rebeca Catalan, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebeca Catalan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
As a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) in Portland, Oregon, I am dedicated to guiding you on your mental health journey with a focus on your unique needs and goals. My practice is set in a welcoming and soothing environment that ensures your visits are both comfortable and confidential. I strive to create a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to discuss and explore your mental health concerns. My dedication to your well-being is grounded in my training at the Oregon Health & Science University and my experience with veterans at the VA Medical Center,
As a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) in Portland, Oregon, I am dedicated to guiding you on your mental health journey with a focus on your unique needs and goals. My practice is set in a welcoming and soothing environment that ensures your visits are both comfortable and confidential. I strive to create a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to discuss and explore your mental health concerns. My dedication to your well-being is grounded in my training at the Oregon Health & Science University and my experience with veterans at the VA Medical Center,
(971) 458-1941 View (971) 458-1941
Photo of Lynaudry Louise Vickers, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynaudry Louise Vickers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
(971) 233-3831 View (971) 233-3831
Photo of Nichole Slykhous, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichole Slykhous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life
(971) 314-4643 View (971) 314-4643
Photo of Schuyler B Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Schuyler B Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
(971) 231-2720 View (971) 231-2720
Photo of Hope Anderson - Giving Hope Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Giving Hope Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Our ideal clients are individuals navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders who are seeking personalized, evidence-based medication management. They value a compassionate, collaborative approach to care and want to regain control of their mental health to improve daily functioning and overall well-being. They prioritize convenient access to professional support, making telehealth an ideal solution for their busy lives. Their goal is to achieve symptom relief, greater stability, and a better quality of life through tailored, patient-centered care.
Our ideal clients are individuals navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders who are seeking personalized, evidence-based medication management. They value a compassionate, collaborative approach to care and want to regain control of their mental health to improve daily functioning and overall well-being. They prioritize convenient access to professional support, making telehealth an ideal solution for their busy lives. Their goal is to achieve symptom relief, greater stability, and a better quality of life through tailored, patient-centered care.
(971) 316-4908 View (971) 316-4908
Photo of Nichole Slykhous, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichole Slykhous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and contributors to symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​ Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life.
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and contributors to symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​ Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life.
(971) 999-3153 View (971) 999-3153
Photo of Valerie Spear, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valerie Spear
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I assist patients with a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, prenatal and post-partum related disorders, substance dependence, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders etc.), dementia with behaviors, and more. I provide care to patients 18 years old to the elderly. In my practice, it is important to me that the patients feel heard and understood. I encourage all of my patients to be active participants in treatment planning to the best of their abilities.
(503) 386-1629 View (503) 386-1629
Photo of Jenn Grant, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenn Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Now Accepting New Patients at NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS! Hello and thanks for taking the time to invest in your mental health! I’m Dr. Grant and I’m a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained in both medication management and psychotherapy.  I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychosis. I also have a particular passion for functional and reproductive psychiatry, including working with clients in the pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-partum stages of life.
Now Accepting New Patients at NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS! Hello and thanks for taking the time to invest in your mental health! I’m Dr. Grant and I’m a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained in both medication management and psychotherapy.  I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychosis. I also have a particular passion for functional and reproductive psychiatry, including working with clients in the pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-partum stages of life.
(503) 966-4192 View (503) 966-4192
Photo of Jenny Nwankwo, PMHNP, APRN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenny Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm Jenny, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage your symptoms? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you through the process of discovering the underlying causes of your struggles and developing a personalized treatment plan that incorporates evidence-based approaches for effective healing.
Hello, I'm Jenny, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage your symptoms? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you through the process of discovering the underlying causes of your struggles and developing a personalized treatment plan that incorporates evidence-based approaches for effective healing.
(253) 487-0501 View (253) 487-0501
Photo of Dr. Elijah Kim, DNP, PsychNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Elijah Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PsychNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
We are born to be successful, happy, and enjoy every moment while living on earth, but that is a dream or fantasy in most cases. However, we are here to overcome obstacles preventing us from achieving our dreams and to make fantasies a reality. Life is full of surprises and challenges. Many are experiencing Depression, anxiety, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, and a variety of other psychosocial stressors. It will be a privilege if I can assist those who need to alleviate their emotional pain and improve their daily functions.
We are born to be successful, happy, and enjoy every moment while living on earth, but that is a dream or fantasy in most cases. However, we are here to overcome obstacles preventing us from achieving our dreams and to make fantasies a reality. Life is full of surprises and challenges. Many are experiencing Depression, anxiety, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, and a variety of other psychosocial stressors. It will be a privilege if I can assist those who need to alleviate their emotional pain and improve their daily functions.
(760) 388-2261 View (760) 388-2261
Photo of Victor Gomes, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victor Gomes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I welcome all patients regardless of age, race, cultural/national background, or sexual orientation/identity. I intend to meet you where you are in your process and to support you while carefully considering your goals, aspirations, limitations, and fears alike. I employ a collaborative approach that is trauma-informed recognizing YOU as the expert on YOU.
I welcome all patients regardless of age, race, cultural/national background, or sexual orientation/identity. I intend to meet you where you are in your process and to support you while carefully considering your goals, aspirations, limitations, and fears alike. I employ a collaborative approach that is trauma-informed recognizing YOU as the expert on YOU.
(360) 323-9299 View (360) 323-9299
Photo of Cassandra Stell, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Stell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new clients in OR and WA. No matter where you are on your psychiatric health, my goal is provide a therapeutic environment to help you achieve your best unique outcome. One of many benefits of becoming mentally strong is that it is one of the best ways to improve how you feel emotionally and physically. My mission is to provide psychiatric diagnosis and medication management in a comprehensive and teaching manner, paying careful attention to your psychological and individual make-up. My approach is collaborative and relational.
Accepting new clients in OR and WA. No matter where you are on your psychiatric health, my goal is provide a therapeutic environment to help you achieve your best unique outcome. One of many benefits of becoming mentally strong is that it is one of the best ways to improve how you feel emotionally and physically. My mission is to provide psychiatric diagnosis and medication management in a comprehensive and teaching manner, paying careful attention to your psychological and individual make-up. My approach is collaborative and relational.
(503) 966-0733 View (503) 966-0733
Photo of Dr. Andrew McKenzie, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrew McKenzie
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I founded this practice to provide mental health care to patients seeking a collaborative treatment relationship. My goal is to help you thrive by uncovering your inner strengths, values, and resources. My approach combines psychotherapy, lifestyle optimizations, and medication management when indicated. I do my best to get to know each patient as an individual. Together we’ll develop a treatment plan for you.
I founded this practice to provide mental health care to patients seeking a collaborative treatment relationship. My goal is to help you thrive by uncovering your inner strengths, values, and resources. My approach combines psychotherapy, lifestyle optimizations, and medication management when indicated. I do my best to get to know each patient as an individual. Together we’ll develop a treatment plan for you.
(503) 486-3832 View (503) 486-3832
Photo of Catherine Rose Hensy, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Rose Hensy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
(503) 966-9547 View (503) 966-9547
Photo of Rebecca Hill, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have been a registered nurse since 1977 and have worked in pediatrics and adult medicine. Since 1999, I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner and became licensed as a psychiatric mental health practitioner in 2011. I have worked in an independent practice as a PNP and at Kaiser. During that time, I worked with mental and physical aspects of health care of children and their families. During my mental health nurse practitioner training, I worked with adults in clinics and hospitals. I also worked on an older adult unit that was a step down unit from the state hospital.
I have been a registered nurse since 1977 and have worked in pediatrics and adult medicine. Since 1999, I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner and became licensed as a psychiatric mental health practitioner in 2011. I have worked in an independent practice as a PNP and at Kaiser. During that time, I worked with mental and physical aspects of health care of children and their families. During my mental health nurse practitioner training, I worked with adults in clinics and hospitals. I also worked on an older adult unit that was a step down unit from the state hospital.
(971) 447-0678 View (971) 447-0678
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 97209

30+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 97209 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
94% Depression
88% ADHD
79% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
68% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Regence
72% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 97209 see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 97209?

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.