Psychiatrists in 98201

Photo of Laura Perez, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Laura Perez
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
My 11 years of experience caring for patients as a Nurse at the UW Medical Center has given me a unique understanding of the importance of the patient provider relationship. Trust, honesty & caring in addition to sound, evidenced based psychiatric and mental health care is essential in creating a treatment plan that works for you. You need to trust that your plan is in your best interest. Only you can decide to participate. As your provider, I will be honest with you. And you can be certain that I do really care about how you are doing.
My 11 years of experience caring for patients as a Nurse at the UW Medical Center has given me a unique understanding of the importance of the patient provider relationship. Trust, honesty & caring in addition to sound, evidenced based psychiatric and mental health care is essential in creating a treatment plan that works for you. You need to trust that your plan is in your best interest. Only you can decide to participate. As your provider, I will be honest with you. And you can be certain that I do really care about how you are doing.
(425) 615-6835 View (425) 615-6835
Photo of Stephanie Cate Blanshan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Stephanie Cate Blanshan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Everett, WA 98201
Are you dealing with mental blocks you aren't able to move past? Often we can struggle to get clarity around the issues we are facing and feel frustrated with our current models of care.
Are you dealing with mental blocks you aren't able to move past? Often we can struggle to get clarity around the issues we are facing and feel frustrated with our current models of care.
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Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(425) 600-1669 View (425) 600-1669
Photo of Nehemiah Zarate-Rourke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, ARNP
Nehemiah Zarate-Rourke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Are you looking for a supportive and personalized approach to mental health care? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychosis through a combination of therapy and medication management. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your healing journey.
Are you looking for a supportive and personalized approach to mental health care? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychosis through a combination of therapy and medication management. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your healing journey.
(206) 210-3776 View (206) 210-3776
Photo of Chika Galega - Anywhere Wellness-Group of Psychiatric NP's, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anywhere Wellness-Group of Psychiatric NP's
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Galega, PMHNP, is currently accepting new patients aged 18+. She specializes in treating Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Trauma and Panic Disorder. Taking a holistic approach to mental health care, Dr. Galega focuses on addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes of mental health concerns. She employs evidence-based practices and collaborates closely with her clients to create personalized treatment plans that align with their lifestyles. Dr. Galega utilizes various therapeutic methods, including Motivational Interviewing, Strength-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Talk Therapy.
Dr. Galega, PMHNP, is currently accepting new patients aged 18+. She specializes in treating Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Trauma and Panic Disorder. Taking a holistic approach to mental health care, Dr. Galega focuses on addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes of mental health concerns. She employs evidence-based practices and collaborates closely with her clients to create personalized treatment plans that align with their lifestyles. Dr. Galega utilizes various therapeutic methods, including Motivational Interviewing, Strength-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Talk Therapy.
(425) 357-2662 View (425) 357-2662
Photo of Sandra F. Carrier, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP
Sandra F. Carrier
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP
Everett, WA 98201
Welcome! I am an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner in private practice. I provide evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. I require ALL POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS TO ASK THEIR CURRENT PROVIDER TO SEND A REFERRAL BY FAX to 1-425-449-4091. I am accepting FAXED REFERRALS ONLY. Emails through Psychology Today will NOT receive a response.
Welcome! I am an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner in private practice. I provide evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy. I require ALL POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS TO ASK THEIR CURRENT PROVIDER TO SEND A REFERRAL BY FAX to 1-425-449-4091. I am accepting FAXED REFERRALS ONLY. Emails through Psychology Today will NOT receive a response.
(425) 598-0327 View (425) 598-0327
Photo of Jacob Apopei, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Jacob Apopei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Mental illness can be debilitating, and finding the right provider or treatment path is not always straightforward. I aim to provide care that is accessible, non-judgmental, and collaborative, because I believe that you are the expert of your own life. I am currently accepting new clients for medication management and offer both in-person and telehealth options.
Mental illness can be debilitating, and finding the right provider or treatment path is not always straightforward. I aim to provide care that is accessible, non-judgmental, and collaborative, because I believe that you are the expert of your own life. I am currently accepting new clients for medication management and offer both in-person and telehealth options.
(425) 517-1858 View (425) 517-1858
Photo of Sandy Grewal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MA, PMHNP-B
Sandy Grewal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MA, PMHNP-B
Everett, WA 98201
My name is Sandy Grewal. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Maryville University (St. Louis MO) in 2020. My passion is mental health and serving those in need of mental health services. I approach care by looking at the individual as a whole and not as just a set of symptoms. My mental health services include psychiatric evaluations, psychoeducation, and medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Treatment plans are individualized for each client, 13 years and older. I will always take the time to explain what the best course of action is going to look like.
My name is Sandy Grewal. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Maryville University (St. Louis MO) in 2020. My passion is mental health and serving those in need of mental health services. I approach care by looking at the individual as a whole and not as just a set of symptoms. My mental health services include psychiatric evaluations, psychoeducation, and medication management for depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Treatment plans are individualized for each client, 13 years and older. I will always take the time to explain what the best course of action is going to look like.
(425) 585-4841 View (425) 585-4841
Photo of Hyesoon Choi - Mind and Behavior Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MN
Mind and Behavior Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MN
Everett, WA 98201
Specializing in medication management with therapy for ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Addiction, and Co-occurring Disorder treatment. Hyesoon Choi ARNP likes to see herself a little differently, right now she’s at the peak of her life. One of her beliefs is "Knowledge is not the power. Practiced knowledge is the power". She likes to share her knowledge and hopes that her audience will practice that knowledge to find their happiness within.
Specializing in medication management with therapy for ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Addiction, and Co-occurring Disorder treatment. Hyesoon Choi ARNP likes to see herself a little differently, right now she’s at the peak of her life. One of her beliefs is "Knowledge is not the power. Practiced knowledge is the power". She likes to share her knowledge and hopes that her audience will practice that knowledge to find their happiness within.
(425) 332-7502 View (425) 332-7502
Photo of Susan J Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Susan J Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
I enjoy working in partnership with individuals to improve quality of life by addressing overall mental, emotional, relational and physical health. I specialize in combining focused psychotherapy with life style changes and medication if indicated. I have experience and special interest in helping clients building resilence, self awareness and self advocacy after trauma and loss, using those experiences to inform the present and improve the future. For those that want it, incorporating mindfulness, prayer and spiritual direction is available.
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Photo of Tyson D Bailey - Spectrum Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Spectrum Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Everett, WA 98201
Spectrum Psychiatric and Psychological Associates are a multidisciplinary team of mental health professionals based in King and Snohomish Counties. We provide comprehensive behavioral health services, including trauma informed therapy, psychological evaluations, and outpatient psychiatric medication management for children older than six, adolescents, and adults.
Spectrum Psychiatric and Psychological Associates are a multidisciplinary team of mental health professionals based in King and Snohomish Counties. We provide comprehensive behavioral health services, including trauma informed therapy, psychological evaluations, and outpatient psychiatric medication management for children older than six, adolescents, and adults.
(425) 478-6100 x113 View (425) 478-6100 x113
Photo of Alexandra J Pales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
Alexandra J Pales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
27 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to healthcare is working together. To work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I provide whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
My approach to healthcare is working together. To work together to create a treatment plan with your priorities in mind, and to provide you with as much information for you to in formed about your care, and make informed decisions. I practice intentional de-centered care, where healthcare is not dictated by the provider, but rather the client. I provide whole person care, looking at nutrition, complementary and alternative therapies, sleep, habits, while also offering psychiatric medications where could be beneficial and if preferred by the client.
(206) 743-9286 View (206) 743-9286
Photo of Paula Alsept, Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, MSN, RN
Paula Alsept
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, MSN, RN
Everett, WA 98201
Many people come to me looking for better management of their anxiety, attention, or mood. I meet each person where they are. In part, this means prescribing medication or practicing psychotherapy with and for each individual. My first goal is always symptom remission. I will work with you to help you get relief.
Many people come to me looking for better management of their anxiety, attention, or mood. I meet each person where they are. In part, this means prescribing medication or practicing psychotherapy with and for each individual. My first goal is always symptom remission. I will work with you to help you get relief.
(425) 478-6100 x113 View (425) 478-6100 x113
Photo of Jana Robison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Jana Robison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Currently accepting new clients for medication management (updated 4/11/2025). I am passionate about working with children, teens, and adults from all backgrounds—regardless of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My goal is to empower my clients and their families to live authentically and reach their fullest potential. I believe in a partnership approach to mental health, where we work together to navigate challenges, and I am committed to creating a space free from blame, shame, or stigma.
Currently accepting new clients for medication management (updated 4/11/2025). I am passionate about working with children, teens, and adults from all backgrounds—regardless of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My goal is to empower my clients and their families to live authentically and reach their fullest potential. I believe in a partnership approach to mental health, where we work together to navigate challenges, and I am committed to creating a space free from blame, shame, or stigma.
(425) 437-3043 View (425) 437-3043
Photo of Anabel Sema - Unique Mental Health Services PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BSN
Unique Mental Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BSN
Everett, WA 98201
Accepting new patients 18-60 years in-person at the office and telehealth. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Other aspects of your life might be affected if your mental health care is not prioritized. Seek professional help to safe your relationships, work and maintain equilibrium in your functioning. Some symptoms of concern are; anxiety, prolonged sadness, mood swings, thoughts about suicide or harming self/others and, psychosis. I diagnose and treat mental health symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood/personality disorders, ADHD and many other mental health illnesses.
Accepting new patients 18-60 years in-person at the office and telehealth. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Other aspects of your life might be affected if your mental health care is not prioritized. Seek professional help to safe your relationships, work and maintain equilibrium in your functioning. Some symptoms of concern are; anxiety, prolonged sadness, mood swings, thoughts about suicide or harming self/others and, psychosis. I diagnose and treat mental health symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood/personality disorders, ADHD and many other mental health illnesses.
(425) 470-5185 View (425) 470-5185
Photo of Lorena Salazar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Lorena Salazar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Everett, WA 98201
I provide trauma-informed psychiatric services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-30) both in-person and via telehealth. I consider genetics, life traumas, cultural issues, and coping strategies that affect mental health. My aim is for clients to feel empowered and understood. I deliver holistic, compassionate care in a culturally competent, stigma-free environment, offering services in English and Spanish.
I provide trauma-informed psychiatric services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-30) both in-person and via telehealth. I consider genetics, life traumas, cultural issues, and coping strategies that affect mental health. My aim is for clients to feel empowered and understood. I deliver holistic, compassionate care in a culturally competent, stigma-free environment, offering services in English and Spanish.
(425) 675-1918 x113 View (425) 675-1918 x113
Photo of May Dee Gemilo - Therapeutic Alliances PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Therapeutic Alliances PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Everett, WA 98201
Hi, my name is May Gemilo, I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the field. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with motivational interviewing and brief, supportive therapy.
Hi, my name is May Gemilo, I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the field. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with motivational interviewing and brief, supportive therapy.
(206) 759-2111 View (206) 759-2111
Photo of Folukemi Olawepo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Folukemi Olawepo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Folukemi Olawepo, and i am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the health care industry. I see my patient with genuine empathy at the core of each session. My approach is to ensure that you are healthy in body mind and soul. I am firmly resolved to cultivate a nurturing and non-judgmental environment that empowers my patients throughout their journeys toward improved mental well-being. Through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, I endeavor to craft and implement, patient-centered care plans that cater to specific and diverse needs of each patient.
My name is Folukemi Olawepo, and i am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the health care industry. I see my patient with genuine empathy at the core of each session. My approach is to ensure that you are healthy in body mind and soul. I am firmly resolved to cultivate a nurturing and non-judgmental environment that empowers my patients throughout their journeys toward improved mental well-being. Through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, I endeavor to craft and implement, patient-centered care plans that cater to specific and diverse needs of each patient.
(425) 474-5224 View (425) 474-5224
Photo of Kirsten Garza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kirsten Garza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Kirsten Garza, and I am a PMHNP-BC. I treat a variety of conditions including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I follow Carl Rogers's approach and hold every patient in unconditional positive regard. I approach mental health holistically focusing on the physical, mental, and spiritual goals of each individual. I believe in collaborating with each patient to ensure they are comfortable with treatment plans and goals.
My name is Kirsten Garza, and I am a PMHNP-BC. I treat a variety of conditions including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I follow Carl Rogers's approach and hold every patient in unconditional positive regard. I approach mental health holistically focusing on the physical, mental, and spiritual goals of each individual. I believe in collaborating with each patient to ensure they are comfortable with treatment plans and goals.
(425) 472-4202 View (425) 472-4202
Photo of Dr. Sean Ziegler, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sean Ziegler
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not currently taking new medication management patients. I am still taking patients for TMS services (Spokane only). Hello, I am Dr. Sean Ziegler. I am a board certified psychiatrist, seeing adults in Washington. I strive to provide professional, compassionate, high quality individualized care. Disruptions to your well being often involve a combination of social, biologic, and psychological factors. We will identify and address what can be changed. It might be difficult to fit an appointment in your busy day; I offer early morning, evening, and weekend hours. I do have an office available if an in person visit is needed.
Not currently taking new medication management patients. I am still taking patients for TMS services (Spokane only). Hello, I am Dr. Sean Ziegler. I am a board certified psychiatrist, seeing adults in Washington. I strive to provide professional, compassionate, high quality individualized care. Disruptions to your well being often involve a combination of social, biologic, and psychological factors. We will identify and address what can be changed. It might be difficult to fit an appointment in your busy day; I offer early morning, evening, and weekend hours. I do have an office available if an in person visit is needed.
(509) 816-4000 View (509) 816-4000

See more therapy options for 98201

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98201

50+

Average cost per session

$212

Psychiatrists in 98201 who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
94% Depression
89% Bipolar Disorder
87% Trauma and PTSD
85% ADHD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
90% Regence
84% Premera Blue Cross

How Psychiatrists in 98201 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98201?

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.