Psychiatrists in 97214

Photo of Jerzy Hubert, MD, Psychiatrist
Jerzy Hubert
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Originally from Canada, my love of nature and the great outdoors recently brought me out to the Pacific Northwest. I am a board certified psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist in private practice in Portland. My desire is to help clients grow by understanding themselves more intuitively and using that to intentionally adjust perspectives and responses to life's challenges. I maintain a curious and non-judgmental attitude in order to facilitate understanding and growth. I also integrate skills-based approaches and medications when clinically indicated.
Originally from Canada, my love of nature and the great outdoors recently brought me out to the Pacific Northwest. I am a board certified psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist in private practice in Portland. My desire is to help clients grow by understanding themselves more intuitively and using that to intentionally adjust perspectives and responses to life's challenges. I maintain a curious and non-judgmental attitude in order to facilitate understanding and growth. I also integrate skills-based approaches and medications when clinically indicated.
(971) 433-5341 View (971) 433-5341
Photo of Andrew James Hughes, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew James Hughes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
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Photo of Dana Jones, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
(971) 315-4821 View (971) 315-4821
Photo of Karen Schaff, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Schaff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I use a therapeutic response to the treatment of mental health as well as treating the individual holistically. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health to children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I use a therapeutic response to the treatment of mental health as well as treating the individual holistically. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health to children, adolescents, and adults.
(971) 443-1283 View (971) 443-1283
Photo of Allie Wayman, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allie Wayman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Greetings! I pride myself on being an inquisitive, life-long learner, and strive to offer my passion and knowledge for treating mental health conditions based on evidence, respect, and choice. I believe healing and well-being should be accessible for all persons. As such, I employ a humanistic approach to patient care that is holistic yet individualized to a person’s unique needs and circumstances.
Greetings! I pride myself on being an inquisitive, life-long learner, and strive to offer my passion and knowledge for treating mental health conditions based on evidence, respect, and choice. I believe healing and well-being should be accessible for all persons. As such, I employ a humanistic approach to patient care that is holistic yet individualized to a person’s unique needs and circumstances.
(971) 318-2867 View (971) 318-2867
Photo of Christina Vaughn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
(503) 755-1127 View (503) 755-1127
Photo of Andrea Hughes, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community". I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community". I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
(503) 483-5689 View (503) 483-5689
Photo of Tim Holt - Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC, MN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
(503) 386-0987 View (503) 386-0987
Photo of Laurence Eckman - Laurence Eckman Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse
Laurence Eckman Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I work with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, marriage & couples counseling, anger problems, unresolved trauma, & PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who may be experiencing communication and relationship issues, daily life stressors, parenting difficulties or life transitions. I am dually licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and psychotherapist (LCSW). Having two different licenses affords me the unique perspective of seeing mental health from the physiological and psychological viewpoints. I offer mental health medication management, psychotherapy, counseling, coaching or a combination of these. Sometimes there is great value in having one practitioner to address both the medical and mental health concerns.
I work with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, marriage & couples counseling, anger problems, unresolved trauma, & PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who may be experiencing communication and relationship issues, daily life stressors, parenting difficulties or life transitions. I am dually licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and psychotherapist (LCSW). Having two different licenses affords me the unique perspective of seeing mental health from the physiological and psychological viewpoints. I offer mental health medication management, psychotherapy, counseling, coaching or a combination of these. Sometimes there is great value in having one practitioner to address both the medical and mental health concerns.
(503) 446-1199 View (503) 446-1199
Photo of Ruthy Lindvall, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruthy Lindvall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I believe your story—what you’ve endured, where you are now, and where you want to go—is the foundation of meaningful care. My approach combines integrative and functional medicine to support your mental health holistically. Recognizing our biochemical uniqueness, I personalize treatment to your needs. Trauma-sensitive care is central to my practice, helping you navigate life’s challenges with strength and compassion. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, affirming space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.
I believe your story—what you’ve endured, where you are now, and where you want to go—is the foundation of meaningful care. My approach combines integrative and functional medicine to support your mental health holistically. Recognizing our biochemical uniqueness, I personalize treatment to your needs. Trauma-sensitive care is central to my practice, helping you navigate life’s challenges with strength and compassion. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, affirming space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.
(971) 417-3230 View (971) 417-3230
Photo of Kristine Simpson, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristine Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
(503) 751-3901 View (503) 751-3901
Photo of Megan Langworthy, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Langworthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
You have worked through a crisis, maybe even a few, and continue to not feel like you are able to function at the level you had hoped. Medication may be helping, but your goal was never a partial remission from symptoms and you are burnt out on not performing at your peak. You may not even believe anymore that full recovery is possible, struggle with motivation, and your moods may be compounded by insomnia, weight gain, gut issues or chronic pain. Perhaps just when you figure out how to manage one symptom, you tip out of balance again.
(503) 563-8979 View (503) 563-8979
Photo of Dr. Meghan Cartwright, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Meghan Cartwright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management for adults in Oregon and Washington. Before calling or sending a message, please visit my website to review my practice information and instructions for booking an appointment. If you have questions not answered on my website and/or would like to speak with me before booking a new-patient appointment, please schedule a free phone consultation via the booking portal on my website.
I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management for adults in Oregon and Washington. Before calling or sending a message, please visit my website to review my practice information and instructions for booking an appointment. If you have questions not answered on my website and/or would like to speak with me before booking a new-patient appointment, please schedule a free phone consultation via the booking portal on my website.
(503) 395-3853 View (503) 395-3853
Photo of Cary Shore, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cary Shore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
(503) 683-8114 View (503) 683-8114
Photo of Maya Nair, MD, Psychiatrist
Maya Nair
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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 Sarah Notton, DNP, MN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Notton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
(503) 470-2470 x1 View (503) 470-2470 x1
Photo of John Benson - BBH Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BBH Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(503) 917-5672 View (503) 917-5672
Photo of Matthew Kristofor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew Kristofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
(503) 664-9618 View (503) 664-9618
Photo of Dario LaPoma, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dario LaPoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
(503) 298-9165 View (503) 298-9165
Photo of Asha Jetmalani, DO, Psychiatrist
Asha Jetmalani
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
— NOTE: Please see my website and click ‘Request Consultation’ to request a visit with me. I am currently out of network with all insurances but am in the process of getting credentialed with Moda, BCBS and PacificSource — I work with individuals who are seeking psychiatric medication management and supportive psychotherapy in an affirming environment where patient autonomy is greatly valued. I am most experienced in providing care to individuals facing anxiety, depression, grief, life and identity transitions and systemic oppression.
— NOTE: Please see my website and click ‘Request Consultation’ to request a visit with me. I am currently out of network with all insurances but am in the process of getting credentialed with Moda, BCBS and PacificSource — I work with individuals who are seeking psychiatric medication management and supportive psychotherapy in an affirming environment where patient autonomy is greatly valued. I am most experienced in providing care to individuals facing anxiety, depression, grief, life and identity transitions and systemic oppression.
(971) 265-9679 View (971) 265-9679
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 97214

60+

Average cost per session

$262

Psychiatrists in 97214 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
87% Medication Management
79% ADHD
71% Trauma and PTSD
65% Bipolar Disorder
63% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% PacificSource
87% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Regence

How Psychiatrists in 97214 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 97214?

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.