Psychiatrists in 98102

Photo of Micheal J Tarver, Psychiatrist, MD
Micheal J Tarver
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Micheal Tarver is a psychiatrist with training from the University of Colorado and Naropa/Memoru spanning both traditional and holistic approaches to support brain health, wellness, and longevity. Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Tarver can be completed through the Madrona Clinics website.
Dr. Micheal Tarver is a psychiatrist with training from the University of Colorado and Naropa/Memoru spanning both traditional and holistic approaches to support brain health, wellness, and longevity. Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Tarver can be completed through the Madrona Clinics website.
(206) 207-5408 View (206) 207-5408
Photo of Marisa Bell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe people navigating early adulthood deserve specialized care. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I believe people navigating early adulthood deserve specialized care. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
(206) 639-2454 View (206) 639-2454
Photo of Eucheria Mbata - Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
(206) 222-4602 View (206) 222-4602
Photo of Sonia Nikolova, Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP, ACT
Sonia Nikolova
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP, ACT
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
(206) 745-3021 View (206) 745-3021
Photo of Kyl Dinsio - Kyl Dinsio, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Kyl Dinsio, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Seattle, WA 98102
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
(206) 701-7896 View (206) 701-7896
Photo of Mary Daniels, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mary Daniels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
67 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
As a dedicated Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate care to children and adults struggling with various behavioral health issues. My expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: - ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder & Dementia. With over 15 years of experience in general and mental health care, my practice spans across Canada and the US. I hold a graduate degree from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at South College.
As a dedicated Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate care to children and adults struggling with various behavioral health issues. My expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: - ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder & Dementia. With over 15 years of experience in general and mental health care, my practice spans across Canada and the US. I hold a graduate degree from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at South College.
(804) 361-7829 View (804) 361-7829
Photo of Dayna A. Long, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Dayna A. Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
NOW accepting new patients! You are doing everything you can to stay grounded, but anxiety, depression, trauma, or burnout keep showing up. Maybe you’ve tried therapy, spiritual work, or lifestyle changes... and you’re still not feeling like yourself. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering thoughtful, evidence-based medication management through a holistic and culturally sensitive lens. I work with adults from all backgrounds who are seeking balance, clarity, and relief — whether they’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, burnout, or the stress of chronic illness.
NOW accepting new patients! You are doing everything you can to stay grounded, but anxiety, depression, trauma, or burnout keep showing up. Maybe you’ve tried therapy, spiritual work, or lifestyle changes... and you’re still not feeling like yourself. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering thoughtful, evidence-based medication management through a holistic and culturally sensitive lens. I work with adults from all backgrounds who are seeking balance, clarity, and relief — whether they’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, burnout, or the stress of chronic illness.
(872) 339-1082 View (872) 339-1082
Photo of Happiness Nwadike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Happiness Nwadike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Accepting new patients now. Psychiatric evaluation and medication management Telemedicine and In-person visits available. Ages 18-65 years.
Accepting new patients now. Psychiatric evaluation and medication management Telemedicine and In-person visits available. Ages 18-65 years.
(737) 258-9256 View (737) 258-9256
Photo of Dylan Michael Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Dylan Michael Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcome! I am excited that you are taking the steps to improve your mental health and overall wellbeing. You have the capacity to reach your goals and live a meaningful life that only you can define. I will spend extra time listening to understand your story, personality and interests, what your goals are and how you want to meet them. To effectively and safely support your journey, I want to know you as an individual and what is happening in your life. This is a collaboration which means I will never tell you what the right answer is for you, but I will make you well informed on the best treatment options to fit your needs.
Welcome! I am excited that you are taking the steps to improve your mental health and overall wellbeing. You have the capacity to reach your goals and live a meaningful life that only you can define. I will spend extra time listening to understand your story, personality and interests, what your goals are and how you want to meet them. To effectively and safely support your journey, I want to know you as an individual and what is happening in your life. This is a collaboration which means I will never tell you what the right answer is for you, but I will make you well informed on the best treatment options to fit your needs.
(509) 285-9519 View (509) 285-9519
Photo of Raquel M Bolender, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Raquel M Bolender
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Serves Area
I am currently only taking child and adolescent medication-management patients. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in treating children and adolescents, and have developed a particular affinity for working with children with OCD and on the autism spectrum. I practice a family systems approach and understand the child’s/adolescent’s functioning within the unit of their family system. I think of the family system as its own unique biome with established patterns of behaviors, values, and ideas, and each of these themes are explored in our sessions.
I am currently only taking child and adolescent medication-management patients. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in treating children and adolescents, and have developed a particular affinity for working with children with OCD and on the autism spectrum. I practice a family systems approach and understand the child’s/adolescent’s functioning within the unit of their family system. I think of the family system as its own unique biome with established patterns of behaviors, values, and ideas, and each of these themes are explored in our sessions.
(206) 639-2408 View (206) 639-2408
Photo of Katherine Elisabeth Reid, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, NPP, PMHNP-B
Katherine Elisabeth Reid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, NPP, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Washington. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I also provide supportive psychotherapy in conjunction with prescribing medication.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Washington. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I also provide supportive psychotherapy in conjunction with prescribing medication.
(206) 785-3939 View (206) 785-3939
Photo of Emma Nauman - Dr. Emma Nauman @Prisma Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP, BC
Dr. Emma Nauman @Prisma Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Emma! I'm a Doctorate level Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I focused my Doctoral research on behavioral interventions for substance use and I believe that success in mental healthcare comes from shared decision making, treating you as a whole individual and creating sustainable treatment plans for a lifelong change. I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and I am a long-time resident of Seattle. I have worked extensively in community mental health and homeless services and I have addressed a wide range of mental health concerns from my past work as a case manager and registered nurse.
Hello, I'm Emma! I'm a Doctorate level Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I focused my Doctoral research on behavioral interventions for substance use and I believe that success in mental healthcare comes from shared decision making, treating you as a whole individual and creating sustainable treatment plans for a lifelong change. I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and I am a long-time resident of Seattle. I have worked extensively in community mental health and homeless services and I have addressed a wide range of mental health concerns from my past work as a case manager and registered nurse.
(425) 217-5176 View (425) 217-5176
Photo of Christopher Ajadi - Christopher Ajadi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Christopher Ajadi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am Christopher Ajadi a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide holistic care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a strong family background from Nigeria, and an unwavering commitment to patient well-being, I prioritize empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices in my work. My goal is to create a safe and therapeutic environment where individuals can overcome obstacles and experience positive mental health outcomes. I am driven to make a profound impact in the lives of my patients and contribute to the advancement of psychiatric care in the community.
I am Christopher Ajadi a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide holistic care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a strong family background from Nigeria, and an unwavering commitment to patient well-being, I prioritize empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices in my work. My goal is to create a safe and therapeutic environment where individuals can overcome obstacles and experience positive mental health outcomes. I am driven to make a profound impact in the lives of my patients and contribute to the advancement of psychiatric care in the community.
(360) 530-9865 View (360) 530-9865
Photo of Crystal Hopkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Crystal Hopkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Hopkins (she/her) received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from The University of Alabama in 2013. Dr. Hopkins holds two Masters degrees in nursing from Troy University (conferred in 2007) and The University of Alabama at Birmingham (conferred in 2017). She is dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. uring Dr. Hopkins’ many years of clinical experience she has worked in a variety of clinical settings as a nurse practitioner to include mental health/psychiatry, emergency medicine, internal medicine, family practice, women’s health, pediatrics, and geriatrics.
Dr. Hopkins (she/her) received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from The University of Alabama in 2013. Dr. Hopkins holds two Masters degrees in nursing from Troy University (conferred in 2007) and The University of Alabama at Birmingham (conferred in 2017). She is dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. uring Dr. Hopkins’ many years of clinical experience she has worked in a variety of clinical settings as a nurse practitioner to include mental health/psychiatry, emergency medicine, internal medicine, family practice, women’s health, pediatrics, and geriatrics.
(507) 353-4025 View (507) 353-4025
Photo of Michelle Zipperman, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Michelle Zipperman
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Serves Area
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
(206) 914-9254 View (206) 914-9254
Photo of Oanh Lam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Oanh Lam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a mental health provider, my goal is not only to provide relief from symptoms but also to help clients build resilience, improve their quality of life, and develop the tools necessary for long-term mental wellness. I work closely with each client to create a collaborative treatment plan that aligns with their individual goals, values, and preferences.
As a mental health provider, my goal is not only to provide relief from symptoms but also to help clients build resilience, improve their quality of life, and develop the tools necessary for long-term mental wellness. I work closely with each client to create a collaborative treatment plan that aligns with their individual goals, values, and preferences.
(253) 523-2572 View (253) 523-2572
Francine Buckner
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, MS
Serves Area
I offer counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management to adults of all ages and from all walks of life. My philosophy is that this kind of work is deeply collaborative and that the client and I work together as a team to help navigate whatever challenges they face with the clarity and resilience needed to flourish despite difficulty. I believe that the mind and body are deeply integrated and that both must be addressed in order to heal from difficulty and to face whatever challenges the future holds.
I offer counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management to adults of all ages and from all walks of life. My philosophy is that this kind of work is deeply collaborative and that the client and I work together as a team to help navigate whatever challenges they face with the clarity and resilience needed to flourish despite difficulty. I believe that the mind and body are deeply integrated and that both must be addressed in order to heal from difficulty and to face whatever challenges the future holds.
(206) 222-0340 View (206) 222-0340
Photo of Amy Renee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Amy Renee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
(206) 627-4577 View (206) 627-4577
Photo of Jim Simon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Jim Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
(206) 984-4335 View (206) 984-4335
Photo of Robert Petit, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Robert Petit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use, feeling overwhelmed by daily life and searching for balance. They seek clarity, stability, and strategies to regain control over their emotions and behaviors. They want to break free from cycles of distress, improve relationships, and build a fulfilling life. Driven by a deep desire for change, they reach out for guidance, hoping to find support, tools, and insight to navigate their challenges and create lasting well-being.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use, feeling overwhelmed by daily life and searching for balance. They seek clarity, stability, and strategies to regain control over their emotions and behaviors. They want to break free from cycles of distress, improve relationships, and build a fulfilling life. Driven by a deep desire for change, they reach out for guidance, hoping to find support, tools, and insight to navigate their challenges and create lasting well-being.
(206) 495-6617 View (206) 495-6617
1

See more therapy options for 98102

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98102

30+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 98102 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
79% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
73% ADHD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
68% Premera Blue Cross
68% Regence

How Psychiatrists in 98102 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98102?

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.