Psychiatrists in 98203

Life can bring challenges that impact our mental well-being, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. At New Dawn Behavioral Innovations PLLC, we’re here to guide you through those tough times. Our experienced team specializes in addressing a range of symptoms, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. Through personalized care and evidence-based approaches, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate your journey toward healing and growth. The symptoms we treat include the following: Anxiety Depression Insomnia PTSD Bipolar Disorder Schizophrenia Substance Abuse/Addiction ocd ADHD Eating Disorders And many more…
Life can bring challenges that impact our mental well-being, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. At New Dawn Behavioral Innovations PLLC, we’re here to guide you through those tough times. Our experienced team specializes in addressing a range of symptoms, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. Through personalized care and evidence-based approaches, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate your journey toward healing and growth. The symptoms we treat include the following: Anxiety Depression Insomnia PTSD Bipolar Disorder Schizophrenia Substance Abuse/Addiction ocd ADHD Eating Disorders And many more…

Now accepting new clients / request an appointment at www.psychnorthwest.com. My care approach is client-centered. Services are holistic, blending conventional evidenced-based practices with complementary methodologies. These include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, symptom history review, medication management, genetic testing, and supplement guidance as indicated.
Now accepting new clients / request an appointment at www.psychnorthwest.com. My care approach is client-centered. Services are holistic, blending conventional evidenced-based practices with complementary methodologies. These include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, symptom history review, medication management, genetic testing, and supplement guidance as indicated.

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

My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.
My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.

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

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.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.

We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Washington patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Washington patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.

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

Hello! My name is Martha Motari. I am a Psychiatric Mental health board-certified nurse Practitioner. I have many years of experience in mental health. I provide mental health services that include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and talk-therapy. I see only adults in Washington via Telehealth platform only and in Texas through Telehealth and in-person My expertise lies in conducting thorough mental health assessments. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice. I have expertise in treating Anxiety, depression, Trauma, Adhd, sleeping disorder, Bipolar.
Hello! My name is Martha Motari. I am a Psychiatric Mental health board-certified nurse Practitioner. I have many years of experience in mental health. I provide mental health services that include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and talk-therapy. I see only adults in Washington via Telehealth platform only and in Texas through Telehealth and in-person My expertise lies in conducting thorough mental health assessments. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice. I have expertise in treating Anxiety, depression, Trauma, Adhd, sleeping disorder, Bipolar.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

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

I am an international medical graduate from Pakistan with a deep
passion for mental health and holistic patient care. I am currently gaining clinical
experience at Pan Pacific Health in Bothell, WA, under the supervision of Dr. Khalid
Ahmed, MD. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered
care, with a focus on treating mood disorders, eating disorders, addiction, and the mental health challenges associated with substance use. I believe in fostering strong, trusting relationships with my patients to ensure they receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs.
I am an international medical graduate from Pakistan with a deep
passion for mental health and holistic patient care. I am currently gaining clinical
experience at Pan Pacific Health in Bothell, WA, under the supervision of Dr. Khalid
Ahmed, MD. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered
care, with a focus on treating mood disorders, eating disorders, addiction, and the mental health challenges associated with substance use. I believe in fostering strong, trusting relationships with my patients to ensure they receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs.

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who graduated from chamberlain university. as I worked as a nurse for 6 years with mental health clients, inpatients, and outpatients. are you struggling with your mental health, we are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. we treat clients with ADHD, Depression, anxiety, bipolar, and many more. my goal is to help my clients where they at, and what they want and we will work together to reach their goals. we are accepting new clients, we are working with most of the insurance.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who graduated from chamberlain university. as I worked as a nurse for 6 years with mental health clients, inpatients, and outpatients. are you struggling with your mental health, we are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. we treat clients with ADHD, Depression, anxiety, bipolar, and many more. my goal is to help my clients where they at, and what they want and we will work together to reach their goals. we are accepting new clients, we are working with most of the insurance.

Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.

I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with Prescriptive Authority. I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of special interest include ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depression. Before nursing, Nobu was a high school chemistry and physics teacher in the Lake Washington School District. She brings knowledge and experience with school accommodations to her work as a provider.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with Prescriptive Authority. I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of special interest include ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depression. Before nursing, Nobu was a high school chemistry and physics teacher in the Lake Washington School District. She brings knowledge and experience with school accommodations to her work as a provider.
Dr. Elizabeth Faust is board-certified in Psychiatry with a fellowship in Integrative Psychiatry. She started in Family Medicine while in the Navy, where she also was a Flight Surgeon. She has practiced medicine since 1999, focusing on Psychiatry since 2007. Dr. Faust practices with an integrative approach to see what medical factors contribute to symptoms, unhealthy thought or relationship patterns, and lifestyle factors that maintain dysfunction. Unexamined, medications will only work briefly.
Dr. Elizabeth Faust is board-certified in Psychiatry with a fellowship in Integrative Psychiatry. She started in Family Medicine while in the Navy, where she also was a Flight Surgeon. She has practiced medicine since 1999, focusing on Psychiatry since 2007. Dr. Faust practices with an integrative approach to see what medical factors contribute to symptoms, unhealthy thought or relationship patterns, and lifestyle factors that maintain dysfunction. Unexamined, medications will only work briefly.

Christencia Obinna-Igbokwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you in need of a person who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking just to provide a quick prescription? I am aware that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging.
Are you in need of a person who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking just to provide a quick prescription? I am aware that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging.

Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo

Anywhere Wellness - Amelia McDonald-Aplin, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, BC NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having problems at work, home or with others? Are you struggling with drinking, substance use, stress eating, or just taking basic care of yourself? I am here to help, by offering safe, affirmative, and non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I believe mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion are the foundation of a successful practice. This allow concerns to be worked through together in a safe and private space! I offer both counseling and medication management services, ensuring that all your mental health needs are met.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having problems at work, home or with others? Are you struggling with drinking, substance use, stress eating, or just taking basic care of yourself? I am here to help, by offering safe, affirmative, and non-judgmental counseling. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I believe mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion are the foundation of a successful practice. This allow concerns to be worked through together in a safe and private space! I offer both counseling and medication management services, ensuring that all your mental health needs are met.
See more therapy options for 98203
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98203
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 98203 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
90% | Depression |
90% | Medication Management |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | Premera Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in 98203 see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98203?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.