Psychiatrists in 98101

Photo of Dr. Ebitari Fregene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Ebitari Fregene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Dr. Ebitari Fregene, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic and informed care to individuals grappling with mental health issues. Are you seeking guidance from an experienced provider who can help you make sense of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan? I'm here to support you in exploring the underlying causes of your struggles, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and creating a comprehensive plan for optimal healing.
Hi, I'm Dr. Ebitari Fregene, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic and informed care to individuals grappling with mental health issues. Are you seeking guidance from an experienced provider who can help you make sense of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan? I'm here to support you in exploring the underlying causes of your struggles, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and creating a comprehensive plan for optimal healing.
(206) 759-5038 View (206) 759-5038
Photo of Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
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
(206) 785-2247 View (206) 785-2247
Photo of Debbie Davieca Singh - Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Seattle, WA 98101
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
(206) 558-0121 View (206) 558-0121
Photo of Maryam Gulraiz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Maryam Gulraiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Online Only
I've been practicing for over 10 years in mental health field. I've experience in working with different ethnic groups, various socioeconomic status, and issues related to immigrant families.
I've been practicing for over 10 years in mental health field. I've experience in working with different ethnic groups, various socioeconomic status, and issues related to immigrant families.
(206) 775-7217 View (206) 775-7217
Photo of Adaugo 'lilian' Iwuoha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, ARNP
Adaugo 'lilian' Iwuoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, ARNP
Online Only
I treat clients ages 13 to 65 and bring extensive experience working with culturally diverse populations. I am committed to staying current with the latest research and delivering the highest quality care through evidence-based, individualized, and patient-centered approaches. I treat a wide range of diagnoses, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders. I utilize talk therapy, supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and brief supportive therapy during medication management appointments, focusing on collaboration to create effective treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs.
I treat clients ages 13 to 65 and bring extensive experience working with culturally diverse populations. I am committed to staying current with the latest research and delivering the highest quality care through evidence-based, individualized, and patient-centered approaches. I treat a wide range of diagnoses, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders. I utilize talk therapy, supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and brief supportive therapy during medication management appointments, focusing on collaboration to create effective treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs.
(360) 519-5926 View (360) 519-5926
Photo of Ben Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Ben Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Hello, I'm Ben. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person’s unique mental health needs. By blending advanced clinical expertise with a holistic approach, I collaborate with patients to create personalized treatment plans that support emotional well-being and long-term wellness. My goal is to empower individuals on their journey toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Hello, I'm Ben. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person’s unique mental health needs. By blending advanced clinical expertise with a holistic approach, I collaborate with patients to create personalized treatment plans that support emotional well-being and long-term wellness. My goal is to empower individuals on their journey toward a healthier, more balanced life.
(206) 558-0236 View (206) 558-0236
Photo of Audrey Wang, Psychiatrist, MD
Audrey Wang
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Many people struggle with their mental health at some point in their lives and having professional help can make a significant difference when navigating these challenges. I work with many young people who may outwardly appear high functioning but are struggling internally with issues such as identity, work/school, anxiety and depression. These issues can become especially prevalent during times of increased stress, such as major life transitions. I utilize a combination of talk therapy and medications (when indicated) to address these issues.
Many people struggle with their mental health at some point in their lives and having professional help can make a significant difference when navigating these challenges. I work with many young people who may outwardly appear high functioning but are struggling internally with issues such as identity, work/school, anxiety and depression. These issues can become especially prevalent during times of increased stress, such as major life transitions. I utilize a combination of talk therapy and medications (when indicated) to address these issues.
(206) 222-6456 View (206) 222-6456
Photo of Brian L. Grant, Psychiatrist, MD
Brian L. Grant
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
I am dedicated to helping my patients enhance and improve their functioning and satisfaction, including their relationships with themselves and others; at home, work and community. I am flexible in my approach, and let the circumstances and reality of the patient shape our work together. I can prescribe medications when appropriate for my psychotherapy patients, but my primary focus is psychotherapy. I am not available for medication management only. I prefer in-person sessions but depending upon circumstances, will consider online visits or a hybrid of both.
I am dedicated to helping my patients enhance and improve their functioning and satisfaction, including their relationships with themselves and others; at home, work and community. I am flexible in my approach, and let the circumstances and reality of the patient shape our work together. I can prescribe medications when appropriate for my psychotherapy patients, but my primary focus is psychotherapy. I am not available for medication management only. I prefer in-person sessions but depending upon circumstances, will consider online visits or a hybrid of both.
(206) 472-1906 View (206) 472-1906
Photo of Nuela Umeh - Elle Cliniques HTC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHN, MSN, BSN
Elle Cliniques HTC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHN, MSN, BSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified, patient-centred, quality-driven psychiatric provider with more than 15 years of experience in the medical profession. I strive to provide care to people of different demographic backgrounds and mental health conditions such as Depression, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety disorders, Insomnia, and more by helping them become active members of society. I understand the essentialness of my patients' ethical and social values and strive to provide care tailored to your beliefs and cultural systems.
I am a board-certified, patient-centred, quality-driven psychiatric provider with more than 15 years of experience in the medical profession. I strive to provide care to people of different demographic backgrounds and mental health conditions such as Depression, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety disorders, Insomnia, and more by helping them become active members of society. I understand the essentialness of my patients' ethical and social values and strive to provide care tailored to your beliefs and cultural systems.
(509) 745-5737 View (509) 745-5737
Photo of Youwen Hu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, DNP
Youwen Hu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, DNP
Online Only
Youwen Hu is dedicated to delivering high-quality, individualized care. Clients can expect a focus on personalized treatment, where their unique needs are at the forefront. Youwen strives to provide the highest standard of care, ensuring that each client feels supported and understood.
Youwen Hu is dedicated to delivering high-quality, individualized care. Clients can expect a focus on personalized treatment, where their unique needs are at the forefront. Youwen strives to provide the highest standard of care, ensuring that each client feels supported and understood.
(206) 594-3945 View (206) 594-3945
Photo of Evelyn Noriko Nelson - Seattle Anxiety Specialists, Psychiatrist, MD
Seattle Anxiety Specialists
Psychiatrist, MD
Seattle, WA 98101
Currently accepting new patients.
Currently accepting new patients.
(206) 312-1922 View (206) 312-1922
Photo of Dr. Gabriela D'Jaen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Gabriela D'Jaen
Psychiatrist, MD
Seattle, WA 98101
Not accepting new clients
Dr. D’Jaen is a board certified psychiatrist and licensed physician. Her clinical interests and experiences are in reproductive psychiatry and integrative mental health. Dr. D’Jaen treats patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD and other common and complex conditions. She has additional training in mindfulness and uses an integrative approach in working with individuals on interpersonal relationships, emotional reactivity and finding fulfillment in one’s personal and professional life.
Dr. D’Jaen is a board certified psychiatrist and licensed physician. Her clinical interests and experiences are in reproductive psychiatry and integrative mental health. Dr. D’Jaen treats patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD and other common and complex conditions. She has additional training in mindfulness and uses an integrative approach in working with individuals on interpersonal relationships, emotional reactivity and finding fulfillment in one’s personal and professional life.
(206) 672-4890 x320 View (206) 672-4890 x320
Photo of John Anthony Meunier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
John Anthony Meunier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Reaching out for mental health treatment is a big step forward, and it can be an overwhelming–and sometimes scary– step! People seek help because they're struggling or stuck, be it due to mood or concentration difficulties, trauma, burnout, or anxiety. Some have concerns about substance use; others aren't quite sure what's wrong, but they know they're tired and ready for change. Fundamentally, mental health care is about reducing your suffering, improving quality of life, and fostering resilience and growth. What does it mean for you to be mentally, emotionally, and physically well? What do you need to be successful and content?
Reaching out for mental health treatment is a big step forward, and it can be an overwhelming–and sometimes scary– step! People seek help because they're struggling or stuck, be it due to mood or concentration difficulties, trauma, burnout, or anxiety. Some have concerns about substance use; others aren't quite sure what's wrong, but they know they're tired and ready for change. Fundamentally, mental health care is about reducing your suffering, improving quality of life, and fostering resilience and growth. What does it mean for you to be mentally, emotionally, and physically well? What do you need to be successful and content?
(425) 243-0171 View (425) 243-0171
Photo of Amber Whitlatch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
I help those seeking a deeper, lasting approach to mental health—someone who may have tried medication or therapy before but hasn’t found the right fit. They struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, or mood instability and want a provider who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. They are looking for a balance of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to feel better, regain control, and build resilience. Their goal is to heal, grow, and feel empowered in their mental health journey, using both science and holistic strategies to create real, sustainable change.
I help those seeking a deeper, lasting approach to mental health—someone who may have tried medication or therapy before but hasn’t found the right fit. They struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, or mood instability and want a provider who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. They are looking for a balance of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to feel better, regain control, and build resilience. Their goal is to heal, grow, and feel empowered in their mental health journey, using both science and holistic strategies to create real, sustainable change.
(213) 722-3840 View (213) 722-3840
Photo of Anita Durnen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, FNP
Anita Durnen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Same Week Appts Available. Hi! I'm Anita. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the power of listening with acceptance and compassion, and most importantly, without judgement. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. I integrate a personalized treatment plan that may include med management, therapy, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. I actively collaborate with other providers, including therapists, specialists, and primary care doctors to ensure best treatment outcomes.
Same Week Appts Available. Hi! I'm Anita. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the power of listening with acceptance and compassion, and most importantly, without judgement. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. I integrate a personalized treatment plan that may include med management, therapy, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. I actively collaborate with other providers, including therapists, specialists, and primary care doctors to ensure best treatment outcomes.
(360) 328-7639 View (360) 328-7639
Photo of Emma Romero, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Emma Romero
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Seattle, WA 98101
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with addiction, mood disorders, or behavioral concerns. My clients want to understand their challenges, build effective coping strategies, and achieve long-term mental health and personal growth.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with addiction, mood disorders, or behavioral concerns. My clients want to understand their challenges, build effective coping strategies, and achieve long-term mental health and personal growth.
(206) 759-8338 View (206) 759-8338
Photo of Dr. Matias Massaro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Matias Massaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Welcome. By visiting this page, you may be acknowledging that something in your life needs to change, and that’s a brave first step. Many of us go through life in “hard mode,” as if we’re walking with Lego pieces in our shoes—feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to move forward. But it doesn’t have to be that way. I’m here to collaborate with you on your healing journey, helping you navigate a path toward a life that doesn’t feel like a daily battle.
Welcome. By visiting this page, you may be acknowledging that something in your life needs to change, and that’s a brave first step. Many of us go through life in “hard mode,” as if we’re walking with Lego pieces in our shoes—feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to move forward. But it doesn’t have to be that way. I’m here to collaborate with you on your healing journey, helping you navigate a path toward a life that doesn’t feel like a daily battle.
(206) 823-3791 View (206) 823-3791
Photo of Mark D Kline, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark D Kline
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My mission is to help people find greater clarity, emotional well being, and physical health in a life of purpose and meaning. Providing care for people who suffer from mood or anxiety problems, or who have survived trauma, or who wonder about the meaning of their life. Care that applies current neuroscience findings, evidence based mindfulness practices, and psychotherapy, often in collaboration with other kinds of healers. Care that is about facing difficulties with clarity, and understanding them in ways that are helpful. Finding what works. Finding how to live well.
My mission is to help people find greater clarity, emotional well being, and physical health in a life of purpose and meaning. Providing care for people who suffer from mood or anxiety problems, or who have survived trauma, or who wonder about the meaning of their life. Care that applies current neuroscience findings, evidence based mindfulness practices, and psychotherapy, often in collaboration with other kinds of healers. Care that is about facing difficulties with clarity, and understanding them in ways that are helpful. Finding what works. Finding how to live well.
(206) 590-7067 View (206) 590-7067
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Washington patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Washington patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
(206) 590-7417 View (206) 590-7417

See more therapy options for 98101

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98101

100+

Average cost per session

$205

Psychiatrists in 98101 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
84% Medication Management
82% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
76% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
72% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 98101 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
29% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98101?

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.