Psychiatrists in 98371

Photo of Stephanie Lamigo Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Stephanie Lamigo Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Puyallup, WA 98371
There is no one who does not struggle with different mental health issues that are driven by different pressures, problems, or expectations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, or a combination of different mental health issues. Please schedule your visit today, copy and paste this to your browser www.live-well-psychiatry.com and you will be directed to my website or simply click the website tab below my photo. I have partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. To schedule an appointment, please call WA: (425) 640-7009 x1
There is no one who does not struggle with different mental health issues that are driven by different pressures, problems, or expectations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, or a combination of different mental health issues. Please schedule your visit today, copy and paste this to your browser www.live-well-psychiatry.com and you will be directed to my website or simply click the website tab below my photo. I have partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. To schedule an appointment, please call WA: (425) 640-7009 x1
(425) 640-7009 x1 View (425) 640-7009 x1
Photo of Chukwudi Victor Okolie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Chukwudi Victor Okolie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Edgewood, WA 98371
Mental health problems are real and it needs attention just as other health challenges such as diabetes and high blood pressure. We are here to help with mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia etc. Give us a chance, a trial will convince you.
Mental health problems are real and it needs attention just as other health challenges such as diabetes and high blood pressure. We are here to help with mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia etc. Give us a chance, a trial will convince you.
(908) 495-7916 View (908) 495-7916
Photo of Angela Cooper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Angela Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Puyallup, WA 98371
Seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward a more balanced and fulfilling life, and I am committed to guiding you through that process. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep understanding of neurodiversity, informed by my own experiences as a neurodivergent individual. This perspective enables me to provide compassionate, tailored care that empowers adults to navigate their unique challenges and strengths.
Seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward a more balanced and fulfilling life, and I am committed to guiding you through that process. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep understanding of neurodiversity, informed by my own experiences as a neurodivergent individual. This perspective enables me to provide compassionate, tailored care that empowers adults to navigate their unique challenges and strengths.
(425) 361-4965 View (425) 361-4965
Photo of Dorcas Kiguru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Dorcas Kiguru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Puyallup, WA 98371
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 10 years of diverse experience in mental health. I am here for you or your loved one with comprehensive and compassionate care. Every client is unique. Therefore, my approach is one that creates individualized treatment plans to meet every individual's needs by providing client-centered care using an evidence-based approach.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 10 years of diverse experience in mental health. I am here for you or your loved one with comprehensive and compassionate care. Every client is unique. Therefore, my approach is one that creates individualized treatment plans to meet every individual's needs by providing client-centered care using an evidence-based approach.
(425) 584-3478 View (425) 584-3478
Photo of Confidence Etuk - Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness, Pllc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness, Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness. I have over 9 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in treating patients with depression, anxiety and a wide range of mental disorders.
Hello, I am a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness. I have over 9 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in treating patients with depression, anxiety and a wide range of mental disorders.
(509) 800-2619 View (509) 800-2619
Photo of Sophia Tripop Adams - Sophia Adams, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Sophia Adams, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Sophia Adams is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping patients navigate their mental health journeys. She provides inclusive, compassionate care for adults, focusing on mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, LGBTQ+ mental health, and sleep disorders. She also has specialized training in TMS, Ketamine, Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, and integrative treatments for complex PTSD. Her practice combines traditional and innovative approaches for patients to explore comprehensive solutions for their mental health challenges. She believes that mental health is the foundation of overall wellness.
Sophia Adams is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping patients navigate their mental health journeys. She provides inclusive, compassionate care for adults, focusing on mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, LGBTQ+ mental health, and sleep disorders. She also has specialized training in TMS, Ketamine, Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, and integrative treatments for complex PTSD. Her practice combines traditional and innovative approaches for patients to explore comprehensive solutions for their mental health challenges. She believes that mental health is the foundation of overall wellness.
(253) 802-8451 View (253) 802-8451
Photo of Shannon Eaton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Shannon Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Now Accepting New Patients in Washington! Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, or trauma? You’re not alone. New treatment options can provide relief from depression in as little as two weeks—covered by insurance with minimal out-of-pocket costs. If ADHD or mood instability is affecting your life, I specialize in helping people navigate trauma, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Let’s find the right solutions to restore balance and help you feel like yourself again. Now scheduling new patients in Washington—start your journey to wellness today!
Now Accepting New Patients in Washington! Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, or trauma? You’re not alone. New treatment options can provide relief from depression in as little as two weeks—covered by insurance with minimal out-of-pocket costs. If ADHD or mood instability is affecting your life, I specialize in helping people navigate trauma, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Let’s find the right solutions to restore balance and help you feel like yourself again. Now scheduling new patients in Washington—start your journey to wellness today!
(425) 678-3582 View (425) 678-3582
Photo of Al Jerome Cruz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Al Jerome Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Al Jerome (AJ) is a dual board-certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult psychiatric medication management. He also offers Medical Weight loss and Nutritional Psychiatry services. He received his Doctoral degree and post-graduate psychiatric mental health certificate at Duke University. He utilizes a holistic, collaborative, and integrative approach to provide personalized, evidence-based, and non-judgmental psychiatric care. AJ highly values a therapeutic provider-client relationship built in trust, respect, and empathy.
Al Jerome (AJ) is a dual board-certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult psychiatric medication management. He also offers Medical Weight loss and Nutritional Psychiatry services. He received his Doctoral degree and post-graduate psychiatric mental health certificate at Duke University. He utilizes a holistic, collaborative, and integrative approach to provide personalized, evidence-based, and non-judgmental psychiatric care. AJ highly values a therapeutic provider-client relationship built in trust, respect, and empathy.
(360) 531-6869 View (360) 531-6869
Photo of Deanette James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Deanette James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Deanette James provides medication management to adults, 18 and over. Her office is a safe space for all individuals currently navigating a chaotic life and needing additional support. She is very much aware that the decision to take medications for stabilization of one’s mental health can be very daunting. While medications may be suggested based on your history, it is purely your decision to start and/or continue these medications.
Deanette James provides medication management to adults, 18 and over. Her office is a safe space for all individuals currently navigating a chaotic life and needing additional support. She is very much aware that the decision to take medications for stabilization of one’s mental health can be very daunting. While medications may be suggested based on your history, it is purely your decision to start and/or continue these medications.
(253) 252-5269 View (253) 252-5269
Photo of Adrianne Papoff-Wallace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Adrianne Papoff-Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Telehealth provider in the state of Washington and am also licensed in the state of Alaska. I offer psychiatric medication management and weight loss coaching services. I believe in treating the whole person, not the disease process. I take into account your whole life and how we can use medication and/or therapy to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can be of help. I am currently accepting new patients for medication management and weight loss coaching/therapy. I am currently not accepting new Apple Health Clients.
I am a Telehealth provider in the state of Washington and am also licensed in the state of Alaska. I offer psychiatric medication management and weight loss coaching services. I believe in treating the whole person, not the disease process. I take into account your whole life and how we can use medication and/or therapy to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can be of help. I am currently accepting new patients for medication management and weight loss coaching/therapy. I am currently not accepting new Apple Health Clients.
(206) 203-1895 View (206) 203-1895
Photo of Dmitry Tverskoy - Restful Mind Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Restful Mind Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Allow me to provide you with experienced knowledgeable care in a friendly comfortable setting. As your partner in your mental health journey I can help you achieve a more peaceful, productive, enjoyable life with up to date treatments and the latest evidence based practice. Using a compassionate, and non judgmental approach creates a safe space to delve into your most difficult issues and realize sustained improvement of symptoms.
Allow me to provide you with experienced knowledgeable care in a friendly comfortable setting. As your partner in your mental health journey I can help you achieve a more peaceful, productive, enjoyable life with up to date treatments and the latest evidence based practice. Using a compassionate, and non judgmental approach creates a safe space to delve into your most difficult issues and realize sustained improvement of symptoms.
(509) 492-5691 View (509) 492-5691
Photo of Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
(253) 289-7408 View (253) 289-7408
Photo of Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Marisa Bell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe people navigating early adulthood deserve specialized care. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I believe people navigating early adulthood deserve specialized care. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
(206) 639-2454 View (206) 639-2454
Photo of Dirk Singleton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, IPP-C
Dirk Singleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, IPP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I’m Dirk and I am glad you are here. It is important that we all recognize the potential in one another to be resilient and empowered–as well as the possibility that we may face challenges that are too much to overcome on our own. My goal is to empower your mental health journey by exploring your unique life story and investigating how each aspect of your body, mind, and spirit impacts your mental health… and then support you in finding lasting balance.
Hello! I’m Dirk and I am glad you are here. It is important that we all recognize the potential in one another to be resilient and empowered–as well as the possibility that we may face challenges that are too much to overcome on our own. My goal is to empower your mental health journey by exploring your unique life story and investigating how each aspect of your body, mind, and spirit impacts your mental health… and then support you in finding lasting balance.
(509) 236-8620 View (509) 236-8620
Photo of David G Zacharias - Existential Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Existential Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! I am David Zacharias, a Mayo Clinic and Harvard-trained psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. I discovered a love for the humanities—notably literature and philosophy—early in life due to the profound way in which they helped me to understand and appreciate the human condition. This eventually merged with an interest in medicine and a desire to help improve people's lives. My interactions with patients tend to be relational and existentially-oriented, focusing heavily on personal growth and empowerment within a larger context of meaning and values.
Greetings! I am David Zacharias, a Mayo Clinic and Harvard-trained psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. I discovered a love for the humanities—notably literature and philosophy—early in life due to the profound way in which they helped me to understand and appreciate the human condition. This eventually merged with an interest in medicine and a desire to help improve people's lives. My interactions with patients tend to be relational and existentially-oriented, focusing heavily on personal growth and empowerment within a larger context of meaning and values.
(206) 565-0232 View (206) 565-0232
Photo of Sukhdeep Kaur Bhullar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Sukhdeep Kaur Bhullar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Online Only
I am taking new clients for medication management! My name is Sukhdeep Bhullar, and I am an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). I have experience in evaluating and managing mental health conditions and am licensed to diagnose and provide medication management. I have knowledge of and use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in my practice. I will work closely with your therapist and primary care provider and offer medication management, second opinions on medication and dosage or additional education.
I am taking new clients for medication management! My name is Sukhdeep Bhullar, and I am an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). I have experience in evaluating and managing mental health conditions and am licensed to diagnose and provide medication management. I have knowledge of and use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in my practice. I will work closely with your therapist and primary care provider and offer medication management, second opinions on medication and dosage or additional education.
(253) 478-8410 View (253) 478-8410
Photo of Krista Meeks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Krista Meeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I will work with you to diagnose and explore solutions and medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, disordered eating, OCD, ADHD, ASD, dissociative disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health challenges. I believe that there is depth and dimension in someone’s unique story, and I aim to consider a broader picture, and a fuller understanding of a person and their struggles as we collaborate to create an individual treatment plan.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I will work with you to diagnose and explore solutions and medication management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, disordered eating, OCD, ADHD, ASD, dissociative disorders, substance use disorders, and other mental health challenges. I believe that there is depth and dimension in someone’s unique story, and I aim to consider a broader picture, and a fuller understanding of a person and their struggles as we collaborate to create an individual treatment plan.
(425) 441-3282 View (425) 441-3282
Photo of Sarah Sunday@ Family Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP, ARNP
Sarah Sunday@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP, ARNP
Issaquah, WA 98027
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
(206) 501-4342 View (206) 501-4342

See more therapy options for 98371

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98371

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 98371 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
93% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
79% Sleep or Insomnia
79% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 98371 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98371?

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.