Psychiatrists in 98208

Elizabeth Bielstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
Not accepting new clients
As a seasoned nurse practitioner with 30 years of nursing experience in multiple specialties, I have focused my professional attention on the evaluation and integrative treatment of mild to severe mental health disorders since 2011. I have a special interest in mood & trauma related disorders, existential / life transitions and health care professionals. I incorporate a creative approach to mental health care. While medication management is often what initially draws patients to my practice, they often stay for the support which has been tailored to their unique health and wellness goals.
As a seasoned nurse practitioner with 30 years of nursing experience in multiple specialties, I have focused my professional attention on the evaluation and integrative treatment of mild to severe mental health disorders since 2011. I have a special interest in mood & trauma related disorders, existential / life transitions and health care professionals. I incorporate a creative approach to mental health care. While medication management is often what initially draws patients to my practice, they often stay for the support which has been tailored to their unique health and wellness goals.

In these times of COVID-19 Are you feeling Anxious and WORRIED? Do you feel depressed? Have your previous treatments failed? Are you experiencing problems remembering things and maintaining a normal weight? Do you suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, trauma issues? Do you experience painful shyness? Are you haunted by unexplained physical symptoms and the doctors have said that "it is all in your head?" I am here to help you.
In these times of COVID-19 Are you feeling Anxious and WORRIED? Do you feel depressed? Have your previous treatments failed? Are you experiencing problems remembering things and maintaining a normal weight? Do you suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, trauma issues? Do you experience painful shyness? Are you haunted by unexplained physical symptoms and the doctors have said that "it is all in your head?" I am here to help you.

My name is Kateryna Kuzmychova. I know, I know my name is a mouth full, and I have my Russian and Ukrainian background to thank for it. I specialize in treating adults, 18 years old and older, on a broad spectrum of mental health disorders. I am a strong believer that every person has an abundant source of self-efficacy and self- resilience, and I, as a Nurse Practitioner, am there to unlock that potential. I listen carefully to all of my patients and their experiences, and then collaborate with them and find the best course of action for their betterment.
My name is Kateryna Kuzmychova. I know, I know my name is a mouth full, and I have my Russian and Ukrainian background to thank for it. I specialize in treating adults, 18 years old and older, on a broad spectrum of mental health disorders. I am a strong believer that every person has an abundant source of self-efficacy and self- resilience, and I, as a Nurse Practitioner, am there to unlock that potential. I listen carefully to all of my patients and their experiences, and then collaborate with them and find the best course of action for their betterment.

Christopher Ajadi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
I am Christopher Ajadi a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide holistic care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a strong family background from Nigeria, and an unwavering commitment to patient well-being, I prioritize empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices in my work. My goal is to create a safe and therapeutic environment where individuals can overcome obstacles and experience positive mental health outcomes. I am driven to make a profound impact in the lives of my patients and contribute to the advancement of psychiatric care in the community.
I am Christopher Ajadi a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide holistic care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a strong family background from Nigeria, and an unwavering commitment to patient well-being, I prioritize empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices in my work. My goal is to create a safe and therapeutic environment where individuals can overcome obstacles and experience positive mental health outcomes. I am driven to make a profound impact in the lives of my patients and contribute to the advancement of psychiatric care in the community.

Mental illness is a shrouded enemy that often unveils itself only when those plagued by it, reach a breaking point. Left untreated, mental illness will permeate work, home and social environments, destroying confidence, hope, ambitions, and any sense of purpose. As I've navigated mental health treatment, I've witnessed first hand the insufferable pain, untreated mental illness can cause on patients' lives. I've conversely seen patients thrive with treatment and support. I have an 8.5 year experience as an PMHNP, and have also been incredibly blessed with a keen sense of compassion! So, don't suffer alone. Please call or email me.
Mental illness is a shrouded enemy that often unveils itself only when those plagued by it, reach a breaking point. Left untreated, mental illness will permeate work, home and social environments, destroying confidence, hope, ambitions, and any sense of purpose. As I've navigated mental health treatment, I've witnessed first hand the insufferable pain, untreated mental illness can cause on patients' lives. I've conversely seen patients thrive with treatment and support. I have an 8.5 year experience as an PMHNP, and have also been incredibly blessed with a keen sense of compassion! So, don't suffer alone. Please call or email me.

Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.

Northwest Child Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98208
Not accepting new clients
NO Longer Accepting new patients at this time. My area of interest is working with children and adolescents, ages 3-18, with a particular interest in managing the care of those with Autism and ADHD. I firmly believe caring for your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical health in terms of achieving optimal health and function. I value the importance of using evidence-based methods, in addition to collaborating with my patients and their families to create the most successful plan of care and outcomes for each individual.
NO Longer Accepting new patients at this time. My area of interest is working with children and adolescents, ages 3-18, with a particular interest in managing the care of those with Autism and ADHD. I firmly believe caring for your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical health in terms of achieving optimal health and function. I value the importance of using evidence-based methods, in addition to collaborating with my patients and their families to create the most successful plan of care and outcomes for each individual.

Power Capote
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 17 years of extensive healthcare experience, including 10 years as an RN and seven years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes medication management, IOP/PHP programs, substance abuse programs, and TMS Therapy. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-PMHNP) from Florida International University and am fluent in Spanish. I continually stay updated on current technologies and treatments to ensure precise and personalized treatment. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 17 years of extensive healthcare experience, including 10 years as an RN and seven years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes medication management, IOP/PHP programs, substance abuse programs, and TMS Therapy. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-PMHNP) from Florida International University and am fluent in Spanish. I continually stay updated on current technologies and treatments to ensure precise and personalized treatment. I am invested in helping clients achieve their best life and full functioning.

Dr. Miguel De La Mora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a University of Texas-trained board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. During his time in Houston, TX completing his Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree he completed clinical rotations at UTHealth Houston Harris County Psychiatric Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, Psychiatry of Texas, Synapse Psychiatry and Turning Point Psychiatry. He completed his doctoral research project on post-stroke depression and post-stroke anxiety.
Dr. Miguel De La Mora, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a University of Texas-trained board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. During his time in Houston, TX completing his Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree he completed clinical rotations at UTHealth Houston Harris County Psychiatric Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, Psychiatry of Texas, Synapse Psychiatry and Turning Point Psychiatry. He completed his doctoral research project on post-stroke depression and post-stroke anxiety.

Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.

Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
15 Second Videos

Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
I am honored to have the opportunity to work with individuals who grapple with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My journey in this field has been driven by a deep passion for helping others navigate the complexities of their mental health. I use medications, alternative treatments, psychotherapy and nutrition.
I am honored to have the opportunity to work with individuals who grapple with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My journey in this field has been driven by a deep passion for helping others navigate the complexities of their mental health. I use medications, alternative treatments, psychotherapy and nutrition.

Whether you are just starting to explore if psychiatric medications might be helpful for you, you have a regimen that you feel could benefit from a fresh perspective, or you are happy with your current regimen and just need a new provider, choosing a new practitioner for your mental health team can be daunting. I work with people who are dealing with the full spectrum of psychiatric symptoms and stressors. I will conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and make evidence-based recommendations for medications and interventions that can help restore your sense of equilibrium and self-efficacy and support you in meeting your goals.
Whether you are just starting to explore if psychiatric medications might be helpful for you, you have a regimen that you feel could benefit from a fresh perspective, or you are happy with your current regimen and just need a new provider, choosing a new practitioner for your mental health team can be daunting. I work with people who are dealing with the full spectrum of psychiatric symptoms and stressors. I will conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and make evidence-based recommendations for medications and interventions that can help restore your sense of equilibrium and self-efficacy and support you in meeting your goals.

*IMMEDIATE, SAME-WEEK TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com and let's get started!
*IMMEDIATE, SAME-WEEK TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com and let's get started!

Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.

Cassandra Thomas-Jingles Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC I am a native of Louisiana, and a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have training and experience in treating patients with psychiatric and medical disorders across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Southern University A & M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a Postmaster of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from McNeese State University.
Cassandra Thomas-Jingles Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC I am a native of Louisiana, and a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have training and experience in treating patients with psychiatric and medical disorders across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Southern University A & M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a Postmaster of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from McNeese State University.

Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Taking New Clients - Working with adults and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and symptoms, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism, ODD, and poor concentration. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness. My name is Debbie Singh, FNP, PMHNP-BC. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, irritable, unable to keep up with daily tasks, have poor concentration, feeling sad and anxious, are you experiencing frequent mood swings and anger? Don't let these symptoms define you; get help; often, these symptoms may be related to your mental health in many cases.
Taking New Clients - Working with adults and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and symptoms, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism, ODD, and poor concentration. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness. My name is Debbie Singh, FNP, PMHNP-BC. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, irritable, unable to keep up with daily tasks, have poor concentration, feeling sad and anxious, are you experiencing frequent mood swings and anger? Don't let these symptoms define you; get help; often, these symptoms may be related to your mental health in many cases.

Hello there! I am Keyna Omenukor DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a dual-qualified family nurse practitioner and PMHNP working in a clinic setting. I am passionate about providing quality care to promote health and improve patient outcomes. I love to provide selfless care to underserved communities and reach out to the patients of impoverished nations to improve global health. My approach to mental healthcare is informed by a combination of evidence-based practices and a person-centered attitude. I can offer information and support grounded in several key theoretical approaches.
Hello there! I am Keyna Omenukor DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a dual-qualified family nurse practitioner and PMHNP working in a clinic setting. I am passionate about providing quality care to promote health and improve patient outcomes. I love to provide selfless care to underserved communities and reach out to the patients of impoverished nations to improve global health. My approach to mental healthcare is informed by a combination of evidence-based practices and a person-centered attitude. I can offer information and support grounded in several key theoretical approaches.

Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
See more therapy options for 98208
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98208
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 98208 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | ADHD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
91% | Regence |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 98208 see their clients
56% | Online Only | |
44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98208?
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.