Psychiatrists in 98133

Photo of Dorcas Kiguru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dorcas Kiguru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions. My background includes crisis, outpatient, and inpatient care, supporting individuals across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related diagnoses.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions. My background includes crisis, outpatient, and inpatient care, supporting individuals across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related diagnoses.
(206) 984-1506 View (206) 984-1506
Geoffrey Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Seattle, WA 98133
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
(206) 693-4896 View (206) 693-4896
Photo of Russell Briggs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Russell Briggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Seattle, WA 98133
Are you or your loved one feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the challenges of an eating disorder? Perhaps obsessive thoughts or past traumas are interfering with daily life. Seeking help is a courageous step, and I'm here to support you on your journey toward mental wellness.
Are you or your loved one feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the challenges of an eating disorder? Perhaps obsessive thoughts or past traumas are interfering with daily life. Seeking help is a courageous step, and I'm here to support you on your journey toward mental wellness.
(206) 429-4319 View (206) 429-4319
Photo of Whitnee Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Whitnee Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Family Practice (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats mental health conditions in clients of all ages. I specialize in anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and grief. My role as a nurse practitioner involves being an educator, mental health advocate, psychiatric provider, and medication manager. I earned three degrees at Troy University, including a Bachelor's in Nursing, a Master's in Nursing, and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Additionally, I have earned a postdoctoral certification in Psychiatric Mental Health.
I am a board-certified Family Practice (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats mental health conditions in clients of all ages. I specialize in anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and grief. My role as a nurse practitioner involves being an educator, mental health advocate, psychiatric provider, and medication manager. I earned three degrees at Troy University, including a Bachelor's in Nursing, a Master's in Nursing, and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Additionally, I have earned a postdoctoral certification in Psychiatric Mental Health.
(425) 475-3116 View (425) 475-3116
Photo of Jesse P McClelland, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Jesse P McClelland
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Seattle, WA 98133
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
(206) 966-4774 View (206) 966-4774
Photo of Wesley Weidle, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Wesley Weidle
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Seattle, WA 98133
I most enjoy working with adult and adolescent clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and/or PTSD. I particularly have specialized interest and training in working with the LGBTQIA+ populations; individuals struggling with sport or performance-related anxiety; individuals struggling with alcohol; and grief-related mood symptoms. I enjoy working with clients that understand and value a multi-modal approach to their treatment including services that may be outside the realm of medication management such as different forms of psychotherapy, interventional options, etc.
I most enjoy working with adult and adolescent clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and/or PTSD. I particularly have specialized interest and training in working with the LGBTQIA+ populations; individuals struggling with sport or performance-related anxiety; individuals struggling with alcohol; and grief-related mood symptoms. I enjoy working with clients that understand and value a multi-modal approach to their treatment including services that may be outside the realm of medication management such as different forms of psychotherapy, interventional options, etc.
(425) 541-1362 View (425) 541-1362
Photo of Dr. Ravyn Burnett Ramos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, ARNP, FP-C
Dr. Ravyn Burnett Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, ARNP, FP-C
Shoreline, WA 98133
I am a integrative medicine clinician with unique expertise in both family medicine and functional mental health. I am well versed in addressing common psychiatric concerns such as chronic stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia both with conventional medications and alternative supplements. I have assisted many patients in decreasing their dependence on common psychiatric medications by addressing commonly overlooked imbalances. In addition, I also have advanced training in research-based psychedelic therapies for the treatment of refractory mental health conditions.
I am a integrative medicine clinician with unique expertise in both family medicine and functional mental health. I am well versed in addressing common psychiatric concerns such as chronic stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia both with conventional medications and alternative supplements. I have assisted many patients in decreasing their dependence on common psychiatric medications by addressing commonly overlooked imbalances. In addition, I also have advanced training in research-based psychedelic therapies for the treatment of refractory mental health conditions.
(425) 671-6803 View (425) 671-6803
Photo of Jordan Bowman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jordan Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Now accepting new clients! Are you struggling with the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, or the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? My approach goes beyond hurried prescriptions and quick fixes. I take the time to truly listen and create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered to open up about your struggles and goals. Together, we'll work to uncover the root of your challenges and build a personalized plan that brings hope, healing, and clarity.
Now accepting new clients! Are you struggling with the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, or the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? My approach goes beyond hurried prescriptions and quick fixes. I take the time to truly listen and create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered to open up about your struggles and goals. Together, we'll work to uncover the root of your challenges and build a personalized plan that brings hope, healing, and clarity.
(509) 478-1935 View (509) 478-1935
Photo of Huanyi 'mimi' Liu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Huanyi 'mimi' Liu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Seattle, WA 98133
I have years of experience working with people suffering from mental illness from various background. I specialize in treating adults over the age of 18 for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I have years of experience working with people suffering from mental illness from various background. I specialize in treating adults over the age of 18 for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
(206) 487-7333 View (206) 487-7333
Photo of Abdoulie Jallow - Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, LPC, CADC-I
Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, LPC, CADC-I
Seattle, WA 98133
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
(503) 300-6709 View (503) 300-6709
Photo of Dr. Ravinder Marok - Family Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
(206) 501-4342 View (206) 501-4342
Photo of Jeannette Muamba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jeannette Muamba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
At JM Hope Wellness Services, I understand the unique challenges and aspirations of individuals seeking to unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. My ideal clients are driven to make a positive change in their personal lives, striving to overcome obstacles and embrace growth. If you want to enhance your mental well-being, develop effective strategies for success, and cultivate resilience, you've come to the right place.
At JM Hope Wellness Services, I understand the unique challenges and aspirations of individuals seeking to unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. My ideal clients are driven to make a positive change in their personal lives, striving to overcome obstacles and embrace growth. If you want to enhance your mental well-being, develop effective strategies for success, and cultivate resilience, you've come to the right place.
(425) 475-1149 View (425) 475-1149
Photo of Deonne Brown Benedict, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Deonne Brown Benedict
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
(425) 406-3106 View (425) 406-3106
Photo of Susi Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Susi Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Serves Area
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
(425) 217-3996 View (425) 217-3996
Photo of Charity Kinyua - Accessible Behavioral Care Services, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Accessible Behavioral Care Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Serves Area
I am accepting new patients morning evening and weekends. I am a dedicated and experienced mental health professional with a strong commitment to supporting diverse populations of all ages.I have many years of mental health experiences . My passion lies in helping others navigate the complexities of mental health disorders like depression, anxiety ,panic attacks,bipolar, schizophrenia,ADHD.I approach each patient with empathy, compassion, and a deep commitment to actively listening and building genuine connections. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique needs, ensuring that treatment plans are personalized.
I am accepting new patients morning evening and weekends. I am a dedicated and experienced mental health professional with a strong commitment to supporting diverse populations of all ages.I have many years of mental health experiences . My passion lies in helping others navigate the complexities of mental health disorders like depression, anxiety ,panic attacks,bipolar, schizophrenia,ADHD.I approach each patient with empathy, compassion, and a deep commitment to actively listening and building genuine connections. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique needs, ensuring that treatment plans are personalized.
(425) 675-2129 View (425) 675-2129
Photo of Bonnie Culbertson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Bonnie Culbertson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
Have you been struggling to find balance within yourself or the ability to connect to others? Mental health challenges can make it hard to feel like you belong, are worthy, or have the energy to be around others. Such challenges can leave you feeling guilty and struggling to change the direction of your life. Everyone’s journey is uniquely theirs and accompanied by challenges and obstacles. Fortunately, through the combination of therapy and medication management you can stop surviving and start working towards your important goals.
Have you been struggling to find balance within yourself or the ability to connect to others? Mental health challenges can make it hard to feel like you belong, are worthy, or have the energy to be around others. Such challenges can leave you feeling guilty and struggling to change the direction of your life. Everyone’s journey is uniquely theirs and accompanied by challenges and obstacles. Fortunately, through the combination of therapy and medication management you can stop surviving and start working towards your important goals.
(425) 215-1940 View (425) 215-1940
Photo of Gabriel Obu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
(425) 517-1711 View (425) 517-1711
Photo of Grace Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Grace Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
Photo of Erika Benjamin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Erika Benjamin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a nurse practitioner with over seven years of clinical experience. I specialize in developing profound and trusting relationships with my clients by prioritizing empathetic listening and individualized care. My commitment to client-centered care extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; I prioritize understanding each client’s unique background, values, and preferences. This holistic approach allows me to tailor evidence-based treatment plans that resonate with the individual, promoting collaboration and empowerment in their mental health journey.
I am a nurse practitioner with over seven years of clinical experience. I specialize in developing profound and trusting relationships with my clients by prioritizing empathetic listening and individualized care. My commitment to client-centered care extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; I prioritize understanding each client’s unique background, values, and preferences. This holistic approach allows me to tailor evidence-based treatment plans that resonate with the individual, promoting collaboration and empowerment in their mental health journey.
(206) 785-3611 View (206) 785-3611
Photo of Marissa Abrahams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marissa Abrahams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with adult clients of all backgrounds who are motivated to take action to improve their mental health. Working with clients who are pregnant, parents or who are in other phases of active growth and change (ie young adulthood, life transitions such as retirement) is particularly gratifying and has been a focus of my practice in recent years. I have significant experience working with persons affected by traumatic experiences and find the work of reconciling that context with new phases of life to be an awesome opportunity for healing if handled with thoughtful care.
I enjoy working with adult clients of all backgrounds who are motivated to take action to improve their mental health. Working with clients who are pregnant, parents or who are in other phases of active growth and change (ie young adulthood, life transitions such as retirement) is particularly gratifying and has been a focus of my practice in recent years. I have significant experience working with persons affected by traumatic experiences and find the work of reconciling that context with new phases of life to be an awesome opportunity for healing if handled with thoughtful care.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98133

20+

Average cost per session

$237

Psychiatrists in 98133 who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
91% Anxiety
78% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
65% Bipolar Disorder
61% ADHD
52% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Regence
74% Premera Blue Cross
68% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 98133 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98133?

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.