Psychiatrists in 97703

Photo of Maggie Yorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication management. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Welcome! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication management. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
(458) 217-6846 View (458) 217-6846
Photo of Katelyn Smith, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant
Katelyn Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Welcome! If you’re facing challenges like depression or anxiety, you’re looking for a compassionate approach that understands and addresses your unique needs. You want to feel heard, supported, and to make real progress in your mental well-being. I’m here to guide you through that journey with care and dedication. I believe in collaborative care to ensure sustainable wellness.
Welcome! If you’re facing challenges like depression or anxiety, you’re looking for a compassionate approach that understands and addresses your unique needs. You want to feel heard, supported, and to make real progress in your mental well-being. I’m here to guide you through that journey with care and dedication. I believe in collaborative care to ensure sustainable wellness.
(458) 227-6746 View (458) 227-6746
Photo of Lynae Edmonds, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynae Edmonds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
Currently Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working with patients across the lifespan who suffer from a variety of mental health concerns. A majority of my experience as a DNP has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
Currently Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working with patients across the lifespan who suffer from a variety of mental health concerns. A majority of my experience as a DNP has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
(458) 213-4989 View (458) 213-4989
Photo of Christy Farleigh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christy Farleigh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
Hi, I'm Christy! With over a decade of clinical experience, I've had the opportunity to finely tune my skills in providing exceptional care to people from all walks of life. As a PMHNP, I put these skills to work helping clients like you identify and achieve your mental health goals. The heart of my practice is built on evidence-based treatments and patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs.
Hi, I'm Christy! With over a decade of clinical experience, I've had the opportunity to finely tune my skills in providing exceptional care to people from all walks of life. As a PMHNP, I put these skills to work helping clients like you identify and achieve your mental health goals. The heart of my practice is built on evidence-based treatments and patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs.
(971) 299-7469 View (971) 299-7469
Photo of Christa DeGrazia, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christa DeGrazia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
(458) 231-8282 View (458) 231-8282
Photo of Robert Olsen, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Olsen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
(458) 291-0393 View (458) 291-0393
Photo of Kristyn Prockish, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristyn Prockish
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working in hospital, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings. Much of my work is with children and adolescents, however, I have the pleasure of providing care to clients of all ages. In the PMHNP role, I assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Treatment typically consists of a combination of supportive therapy and medication management.
(458) 204-0171 View (458) 204-0171
Photo of Patricia C Merritt, MSW, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia C Merritt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
Tricia treats patients age 12 and over experiencing new or chronic behavioral health concerns.
Tricia treats patients age 12 and over experiencing new or chronic behavioral health concerns.
(458) 204-4809 View (458) 204-4809
Photo of Abraham Ashton, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abraham Ashton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
Welcome! I am Abraham— I'm passionate about mental health. I believe in a strong therapeutic collaboration between myself and my patients. In my practice, I strive to achieve the highest care with respect and regard for my patients. Aligning treatment with evidence-based guidelines combined with clinical experience to develop a treatment plan that is centered around the patient. I want to help achieve sustainable wellness to improve your quality of life.
Welcome! I am Abraham— I'm passionate about mental health. I believe in a strong therapeutic collaboration between myself and my patients. In my practice, I strive to achieve the highest care with respect and regard for my patients. Aligning treatment with evidence-based guidelines combined with clinical experience to develop a treatment plan that is centered around the patient. I want to help achieve sustainable wellness to improve your quality of life.
(458) 243-4969 View (458) 243-4969
Sean Bennett
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an osteopathic physician which makes me holistic in nature. I view the person as a whole including: mind, body, soul, and environment. Together we can dive into what makes you who you are and identify to heal the exiled or abandoned places of you. I am also a Board Certified psychiatrist with expertise in mental health diagnosis and treatment. Although currently I do not prescribe medications privately, I offer medication consultations, education, and recommendations. I am trained to work with all spectrums of mental/spiritual/emotional disease and work best with clients seeking greater awareness and sovereignty over self.
I am an osteopathic physician which makes me holistic in nature. I view the person as a whole including: mind, body, soul, and environment. Together we can dive into what makes you who you are and identify to heal the exiled or abandoned places of you. I am also a Board Certified psychiatrist with expertise in mental health diagnosis and treatment. Although currently I do not prescribe medications privately, I offer medication consultations, education, and recommendations. I am trained to work with all spectrums of mental/spiritual/emotional disease and work best with clients seeking greater awareness and sovereignty over self.
(458) 243-4780 View (458) 243-4780
Photo of Megan Lewis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
(458) 832-2267 View (458) 832-2267
Photo of Jessica Ward, PMHNP, MPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
Now Accepting New TMS Clients! My name is Jessica Ward, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. My experience includes working with children, preteens and adults of all ages with conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic illness, and other co-occurring disorders.
Now Accepting New TMS Clients! My name is Jessica Ward, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. My experience includes working with children, preteens and adults of all ages with conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic illness, and other co-occurring disorders.
(458) 236-5875 View (458) 236-5875
Photo of Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Amanda MacLeod
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, holds a Master’s in Medical Science from Midwestern University in Arizona and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Kansas. She specializes in medication management for psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with experience in novel treatments for resistant depression including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and esketamine intranasal treatments. Amanda treats most ages 13-65, but has found a passion in treating adolescents and young adults with building strong rapport and fostering a collaborative treatment environment.
Amanda MacLeod, PA-C, holds a Master’s in Medical Science from Midwestern University in Arizona and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Kansas. She specializes in medication management for psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with experience in novel treatments for resistant depression including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and esketamine intranasal treatments. Amanda treats most ages 13-65, but has found a passion in treating adolescents and young adults with building strong rapport and fostering a collaborative treatment environment.
(458) 217-5410 View (458) 217-5410
Photo of Cayley Mesterheide, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-ps, Physician Assistant
Cayley Mesterheide
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-ps
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
I'm Cayley, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with specialized qualifications in psychiatry. My unwavering commitment is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I'm currently welcoming new clients. In my professional journey, I'm dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives through effective therapeutic interventions.
(458) 214-2372 View (458) 214-2372
Photo of Ellen Baker-Anderson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ellen Baker-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
(458) 217-5932 View (458) 217-5932
Photo of Frances Murphy, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Frances Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Frances Murphy is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine for adults. She provides medication management and psychoeducation to those suffering from various mental health conditions. She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, and trauma.
Frances Murphy is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine for adults. She provides medication management and psychoeducation to those suffering from various mental health conditions. She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, and trauma.
(458) 236-3837 View (458) 236-3837
Photo of Amanda Rapaport, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Rapaport
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Amanda Rapaport is dually board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
Amanda Rapaport is dually board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
(458) 313-3293 View (458) 313-3293
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 10/30/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 10/30/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(458) 217-8603 View (458) 217-8603
Photo of Nancy Masters, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
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) 316-4662 View (971) 316-4662
Photo of George Harper Mecouch - Central Oregon Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Central Oregon Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
I have been in a psychiatrist for 42 years with extra training in Jungian oriented psychotherapy and Process oriented therapy. I work only with adults over 18 and specialize in dream work. My work is depth directed with emphasis on the imagination. I work with all symptom issues with this dream and body approach and prefer clients interested in long term weekly or twice weekly therapy.
I have been in a psychiatrist for 42 years with extra training in Jungian oriented psychotherapy and Process oriented therapy. I work only with adults over 18 and specialize in dream work. My work is depth directed with emphasis on the imagination. I work with all symptom issues with this dream and body approach and prefer clients interested in long term weekly or twice weekly therapy.
(503) 917-3220 View (503) 917-3220
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 97703

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 97703 who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
85% Anxiety
85% Trauma and PTSD
85% Medication Management
74% ADHD
67% Bipolar Disorder
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% PacificSource
91% Regence
87% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 97703 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 97703?

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.