Psychiatrists in 98038

Advanced Wellness Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/Ed, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
We are currently accepting patients via telehealth. Online appointments are conducted from the comfort of your home or private work space, using secure video chat technology. We have two board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Chandra Cogburn and Shanti Herzog. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, and psychiatric medication management treatment. Medication appointments are typically accompanied by brief counseling where we focus on achieving your overall health goals. We encourage people to also have a primary talk therapist for more comprehensive therapy. We see ages 5 and above to adult.
We are currently accepting patients via telehealth. Online appointments are conducted from the comfort of your home or private work space, using secure video chat technology. We have two board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Chandra Cogburn and Shanti Herzog. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, and psychiatric medication management treatment. Medication appointments are typically accompanied by brief counseling where we focus on achieving your overall health goals. We encourage people to also have a primary talk therapist for more comprehensive therapy. We see ages 5 and above to adult.

Chelsea Ratchford is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2024. Chelsea is here to help you achieve the life you want. She offers nonjudgmental care to patients. Together, you and Chelsea can decide on the treatment plan that best fits your lifestyle. She will provide support to help you manage symptoms, improve coping skills, and work through emotional challenges to foster resilience and promote mental wellbeing, whatever that looks like to you. Chelsea will provide education about your mental health condition, including symptoms, triggers, and potential treatment options.
Chelsea Ratchford is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2024. Chelsea is here to help you achieve the life you want. She offers nonjudgmental care to patients. Together, you and Chelsea can decide on the treatment plan that best fits your lifestyle. She will provide support to help you manage symptoms, improve coping skills, and work through emotional challenges to foster resilience and promote mental wellbeing, whatever that looks like to you. Chelsea will provide education about your mental health condition, including symptoms, triggers, and potential treatment options.

Liza Partlow Lohse, MD, is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist, licensed in the state of Washington. She has over 15 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry; in private practice, university and hospital settings. Dr. Partlow Lohse's goal is to work in collaboration with clients to achieve their mental health goals via psychiatric evaluation and treatment planning using a wholistic approach. That can include focus on lifestyle factors including sleep, nutrition and exercise as well as utilizing behavioral strategies and medication management.
Liza Partlow Lohse, MD, is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist, licensed in the state of Washington. She has over 15 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry; in private practice, university and hospital settings. Dr. Partlow Lohse's goal is to work in collaboration with clients to achieve their mental health goals via psychiatric evaluation and treatment planning using a wholistic approach. That can include focus on lifestyle factors including sleep, nutrition and exercise as well as utilizing behavioral strategies and medication management.

Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Washington State ( License AP60003268). I received Baccalaureate Degrees in Psychology and Nursing from the University of Washington in 1988, and a Master's Degree in Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Washington in 2007. I worked in inpatient and outpatient settings as a Psychiatric Nurse and have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in an outpatient setting as a Psychiatric ARNP. In my free time I enjoy hiking, skiing, trail running and reading.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Washington State ( License AP60003268). I received Baccalaureate Degrees in Psychology and Nursing from the University of Washington in 1988, and a Master's Degree in Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Washington in 2007. I worked in inpatient and outpatient settings as a Psychiatric Nurse and have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in an outpatient setting as a Psychiatric ARNP. In my free time I enjoy hiking, skiing, trail running and reading.

Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA

Enrich Community Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individual ages 16 and older. I also provide evaluations for bariatric surgery eligible patients. My areas of specialization are mood disorders, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactive disorders (ADHD/ADD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, PTSD, panic attacks, panic disorder and nightmares.
I am a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individual ages 16 and older. I also provide evaluations for bariatric surgery eligible patients. My areas of specialization are mood disorders, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactive disorders (ADHD/ADD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, PTSD, panic attacks, panic disorder and nightmares.

At Dayspring Behavioral Health in Issaquah, I offer personalized psychiatric evaluation and treatment for individuals of all ages. I especially enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and emotional regulation. I also support individuals with bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD symptoms.
At Dayspring Behavioral Health in Issaquah, I offer personalized psychiatric evaluation and treatment for individuals of all ages. I especially enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and emotional regulation. I also support individuals with bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD symptoms.

Melissa J Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about ending the stigma against mental illness that prevents people from getting the support they need. I am a fierce advocate of LGBTQ+ persons and of anyone else who needs my support. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric conditions: mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and many more. I work with adults and teens to determine an appropriate combination of both medications and psychotherapy.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about ending the stigma against mental illness that prevents people from getting the support they need. I am a fierce advocate of LGBTQ+ persons and of anyone else who needs my support. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric conditions: mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and many more. I work with adults and teens to determine an appropriate combination of both medications and psychotherapy.

Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA

Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
15 Second Videos

Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.

Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
More Psychiatrists Nearby

At DeGrate + Co (www.degrate.co), we utilize the latest science to springboard you into the future with reverence and respect for your past. We specialize in navigating transitions, tough conversations, and believe in trauma-informed care. We are gentle guides as you progress and willing witnesses to your next right step. You can find us at the corner of behavioral health and wellness. Reach out if you’re ready to grow.
At DeGrate + Co (www.degrate.co), we utilize the latest science to springboard you into the future with reverence and respect for your past. We specialize in navigating transitions, tough conversations, and believe in trauma-informed care. We are gentle guides as you progress and willing witnesses to your next right step. You can find us at the corner of behavioral health and wellness. Reach out if you’re ready to grow.

Glory Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Nwankwo is a doctoral prepared and licensed dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, and Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Minnesota. Dr. Nwankwo provides her clients with empathetic, evidence-based, patient-centered care with the goal of restoring health and balance. She assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders using pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions.
Dr. Nwankwo is a doctoral prepared and licensed dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, and Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Minnesota. Dr. Nwankwo provides her clients with empathetic, evidence-based, patient-centered care with the goal of restoring health and balance. She assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders using pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions.

If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, or stress, find personalized care and support at Lifestyle Psychiatry MD. Led by Dr. Rowena Mercado, a board-certified psychiatrist, our practice blends physician guidance with evidence-based medication management and lifestyle interventions. From understanding the intricate connection between mental health and lifestyle factors to tailoring treatment plans that suit your unique needs, we're committed to fostering resilience, recovery, and overall wellness. Book your appointment today at www.lifestylepsychiatrymd.com and take the first step towards a healthier mind.
If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, or stress, find personalized care and support at Lifestyle Psychiatry MD. Led by Dr. Rowena Mercado, a board-certified psychiatrist, our practice blends physician guidance with evidence-based medication management and lifestyle interventions. From understanding the intricate connection between mental health and lifestyle factors to tailoring treatment plans that suit your unique needs, we're committed to fostering resilience, recovery, and overall wellness. Book your appointment today at www.lifestylepsychiatrymd.com and take the first step towards a healthier mind.

AJ Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting New Patients. "Telemedicine appointments only". Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or even mood instability or struggling with addiction? Do you feel that life is so hard and you are constantly dealing with sadness? Do you just want to be happy again? I am here to walk with you in this journey. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where you feel safe, accepted and understood.
Now accepting New Patients. "Telemedicine appointments only". Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or even mood instability or struggling with addiction? Do you feel that life is so hard and you are constantly dealing with sadness? Do you just want to be happy again? I am here to walk with you in this journey. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where you feel safe, accepted and understood.

Susan Malatesta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
Currently accepting new patients! My clients tell me that after starting treatment they feel more like themselves, they are brighter and are confident to reach their wellness goals. I specialize in helping patients experience relief from struggles like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, constant worry and fear, insomnia, and irritability. Clients often need short and long term solutions to problems that are preventing them from performing at work, having fulfilling relationships and feeling their best.
Currently accepting new patients! My clients tell me that after starting treatment they feel more like themselves, they are brighter and are confident to reach their wellness goals. I specialize in helping patients experience relief from struggles like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, constant worry and fear, insomnia, and irritability. Clients often need short and long term solutions to problems that are preventing them from performing at work, having fulfilling relationships and feeling their best.

Melissa Weidner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I am board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner receiving my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Seattle University, with over 20-years in the medical field. Starting as an Air Force Medic, OEF/OIF veteran, I have robust experiences in emergency medicine, intensive care, mental health, and flight medicine, and an undeniable drive to help those in need. My drive, determination, and grit, combined with life experiences, make me a strong ally for those that need a provider to dig deep to reach life goals. My current specialties are Military/ Veteran, LGBTQ+, PTSD/Trauma, Mood Disorders, ADHD, depression, & anxiety.
I am board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner receiving my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Seattle University, with over 20-years in the medical field. Starting as an Air Force Medic, OEF/OIF veteran, I have robust experiences in emergency medicine, intensive care, mental health, and flight medicine, and an undeniable drive to help those in need. My drive, determination, and grit, combined with life experiences, make me a strong ally for those that need a provider to dig deep to reach life goals. My current specialties are Military/ Veteran, LGBTQ+, PTSD/Trauma, Mood Disorders, ADHD, depression, & anxiety.

Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
See more therapy options for 98038
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98038
10+
Psychiatrists in 98038 who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
92% | Trauma and PTSD |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | ADHD |
85% | Medication Management |
69% | Depression |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | First Choice Health | FCH |
How Psychiatrists in 98038 see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98038?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.