Psychiatrists in 98422

Anywhere Wellness-Group of Psychiatric ARNP's
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98422
Amelia, PMHNP, is currently accepting new patients aged 18 and older. She specializes in Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Trauma, and Panic Disorder. Dedicated to helping her clients achieve their goals, Amelia believes that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care. She works tirelessly to turn this belief into reality, leveraging all available resources to ensure her patients receive the best care possible. Together, they develop personalized treatment plans that align with each client's lifestyle. Amelia utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Talk Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, CBT & Strength Based.
Amelia, PMHNP, is currently accepting new patients aged 18 and older. She specializes in Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Trauma, and Panic Disorder. Dedicated to helping her clients achieve their goals, Amelia believes that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care. She works tirelessly to turn this belief into reality, leveraging all available resources to ensure her patients receive the best care possible. Together, they develop personalized treatment plans that align with each client's lifestyle. Amelia utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Talk Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, CBT & Strength Based.

I am a licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the states of Washington and Oregon. I welcome adolescent and adult clients with mental health conditions. My approach in treatment is collaborative, partnering with clients in pursuit of their mental wellbeing. I incorporate the growing practice of nutrition psychiatry in my treatment plans as I see the benefits of natural remedies complementary with traditional treatments.
I am a licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the states of Washington and Oregon. I welcome adolescent and adult clients with mental health conditions. My approach in treatment is collaborative, partnering with clients in pursuit of their mental wellbeing. I incorporate the growing practice of nutrition psychiatry in my treatment plans as I see the benefits of natural remedies complementary with traditional treatments.

As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric illnesses with an integrative, personalized approach. While I can prescribe medications, my care goes beyond traditional psychiatry to include a holistic view of your overall health.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric illnesses with an integrative, personalized approach. While I can prescribe medications, my care goes beyond traditional psychiatry to include a holistic view of your overall health.

Christy Webster Legler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, working with clients, ages 11 years and beyond. My background includes twenty four years of experience as a Registered Nurse during which time I worked with both adults and adolescents in the inpatient psychiatric setting. I have found that one thing we have in common is the human experience and I'd love to have the opportunity to help you live your best life. After completing a thorough psychiatric assessment, we can work together to find the best combination of care for you, which may include medications.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, working with clients, ages 11 years and beyond. My background includes twenty four years of experience as a Registered Nurse during which time I worked with both adults and adolescents in the inpatient psychiatric setting. I have found that one thing we have in common is the human experience and I'd love to have the opportunity to help you live your best life. After completing a thorough psychiatric assessment, we can work together to find the best combination of care for you, which may include medications.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Mabel Rodriguez, PMHNP-BC, integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside mindfulness and other wellness strategies to provide comprehensive mental healthcare tailored to individual needs. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, mood disorders and stress management, aiming to empower patients through education and collaborative goal setting. In providing mental healthcare, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with other wellness approaches, such as mindfulness and stress management techniques, to offer a holistic treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs.
Mabel Rodriguez, PMHNP-BC, integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside mindfulness and other wellness strategies to provide comprehensive mental healthcare tailored to individual needs. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, mood disorders and stress management, aiming to empower patients through education and collaborative goal setting. In providing mental healthcare, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with other wellness approaches, such as mindfulness and stress management techniques, to offer a holistic treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs.

At iCare Clinic, I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that empowers individuals to achieve their best health. My focus is on building trust, fostering meaningful connections, and delivering innovative solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I take pride in creating a supportive environment where every person feels heard, valued, and cared for. Together, we strive for wellness and brighter futures—one step at a time.
At iCare Clinic, I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that empowers individuals to achieve their best health. My focus is on building trust, fostering meaningful connections, and delivering innovative solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I take pride in creating a supportive environment where every person feels heard, valued, and cared for. Together, we strive for wellness and brighter futures—one step at a time.

I have treated a diverse group of clients from all races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have found that everyone's needs and goals are different, there is no "ideal client" in my opinion. Half the battle is recognizing there is a problem in your life which could be improved with treatment. A client that is ready to have open communication with their provider and do the work necessary in order to improve the quality of their life, that is whom I wish to work with. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a client's symptoms decrease and their quality of life improve because of the treatment I have provided.
I have treated a diverse group of clients from all races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have found that everyone's needs and goals are different, there is no "ideal client" in my opinion. Half the battle is recognizing there is a problem in your life which could be improved with treatment. A client that is ready to have open communication with their provider and do the work necessary in order to improve the quality of their life, that is whom I wish to work with. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a client's symptoms decrease and their quality of life improve because of the treatment I have provided.

My ideal client is an adolescent or adult managing ADHD, anxiety, or mood disorders, seeking compassionate, accessible care. They need guidance for symptom management, a personalized treatment plan, and tools to thrive beyond medication alone. Their goals include reducing mental health barriers, improving daily functioning, and achieving greater emotional balance. They want a provider who listens, understands their unique challenges, and empowers them to build resilience and live a more fulfilling life.
My ideal client is an adolescent or adult managing ADHD, anxiety, or mood disorders, seeking compassionate, accessible care. They need guidance for symptom management, a personalized treatment plan, and tools to thrive beyond medication alone. Their goals include reducing mental health barriers, improving daily functioning, and achieving greater emotional balance. They want a provider who listens, understands their unique challenges, and empowers them to build resilience and live a more fulfilling life.

Alexa Velez-Pearson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057
Currently open and accepting new patients. There is no ideal client, but individuals seeking to heal from trauma, grief, sadness, and anxiety. We all walk our own paths in life and sometimes need support along the way. Those who are willing to get better and work towards their goals of health and happiness warm my heart and are the driving force for why I practice in psychiatry.
Currently open and accepting new patients. There is no ideal client, but individuals seeking to heal from trauma, grief, sadness, and anxiety. We all walk our own paths in life and sometimes need support along the way. Those who are willing to get better and work towards their goals of health and happiness warm my heart and are the driving force for why I practice in psychiatry.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, addiction, or a mental health challenge like bipolar disorder, PTSD, or OCD? Perhaps you're struggling to balance life’s demands, manage mood swings, or overcome substance abuse. You need compassionate, evidence-based care that truly understands your journey. Your goal is to regain control, find inner peace, and build a thriving, balanced life. With a focus on personalized treatment plans and holistic care, I work alongside you to address your unique needs and help you achieve lasting mental wellness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, addiction, or a mental health challenge like bipolar disorder, PTSD, or OCD? Perhaps you're struggling to balance life’s demands, manage mood swings, or overcome substance abuse. You need compassionate, evidence-based care that truly understands your journey. Your goal is to regain control, find inner peace, and build a thriving, balanced life. With a focus on personalized treatment plans and holistic care, I work alongside you to address your unique needs and help you achieve lasting mental wellness.

Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
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

Are you so anxious that you worry about your worry? You may be fed up with the constant anxious thoughts bombarding your mind, feeling tired, agitated, and overwhelmed. You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. But there is one thing you know without question, you are ready for an end to the racing thoughts. You’re ready to experience calm and peace. You are ready to enjoy moments without fear. Most of all, you are ready to live life confidently.
Are you so anxious that you worry about your worry? You may be fed up with the constant anxious thoughts bombarding your mind, feeling tired, agitated, and overwhelmed. You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. But there is one thing you know without question, you are ready for an end to the racing thoughts. You’re ready to experience calm and peace. You are ready to enjoy moments without fear. Most of all, you are ready to live life confidently.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I completed my graduate degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a registered nurse in the Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit at the University of Birmingham Hospital. With a strong commitment to patient-centered care, I utilize my training and educational background to achieve the best possible outcomes for my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I completed my graduate degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a registered nurse in the Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit at the University of Birmingham Hospital. With a strong commitment to patient-centered care, I utilize my training and educational background to achieve the best possible outcomes for my patients.

Edema Obaseki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are those struggling with mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Weight issues or trauma, who feel overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings and seek tools to manage emotions and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and leading a more balanced, meaningful life. As a mental health provider, I can offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment, where they can feel heard and understood, and combine medication with supportive therapy to help them reclaim their lives.
My ideal clients are those struggling with mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Weight issues or trauma, who feel overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings and seek tools to manage emotions and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and leading a more balanced, meaningful life. As a mental health provider, I can offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment, where they can feel heard and understood, and combine medication with supportive therapy to help them reclaim their lives.

Eliza Brink
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I work with individuals who are struggling with treatment-resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder and have found limited relief with traditional treatments. My ideal clients are those seeking innovative, evidence-based options to address their mental health challenges. Many of my clients are young adults dealing with persistent symptoms that have impacted their quality of life, relationships, or sense of purpose. Their goal is to feel better, regain hope, and find effective solutions that allow them to move forward with their lives.
I work with individuals who are struggling with treatment-resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder and have found limited relief with traditional treatments. My ideal clients are those seeking innovative, evidence-based options to address their mental health challenges. Many of my clients are young adults dealing with persistent symptoms that have impacted their quality of life, relationships, or sense of purpose. Their goal is to feel better, regain hope, and find effective solutions that allow them to move forward with their lives.

Vanessa Ngea, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. She believes in a collaborative approach that values the voice of the client, ensuring that each individual's mental health journey is respected and addressed. Vanessa's passion lies in helping those with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. By applying an empathetic and holistic approach, she aims to support clients in achieving their best mental health.
Vanessa Ngea, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. She believes in a collaborative approach that values the voice of the client, ensuring that each individual's mental health journey is respected and addressed. Vanessa's passion lies in helping those with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. By applying an empathetic and holistic approach, she aims to support clients in achieving their best mental health.

Finding good treatment for mental health and addictions that is personalized to you can be life-saving. My practice delivers that treatment directly to you using secure video telehealth. I specialize in combined talk therapy and medication management (including addictions treatment) in 45-50 minute sessions that address your individual mental health and addiction issues. Getting talk therapy, mental health, and addictions treatment through the same physician can save you time and be more effective. I am currently accepting new clients and offer medication-assisted treatment for alcohol and opioid use disorders.
Finding good treatment for mental health and addictions that is personalized to you can be life-saving. My practice delivers that treatment directly to you using secure video telehealth. I specialize in combined talk therapy and medication management (including addictions treatment) in 45-50 minute sessions that address your individual mental health and addiction issues. Getting talk therapy, mental health, and addictions treatment through the same physician can save you time and be more effective. I am currently accepting new clients and offer medication-assisted treatment for alcohol and opioid use disorders.

Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Currently accepting new clients throughout Nevada, New York, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington. Prioritize Your Mental Well-being. At Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC, we believe mental health matters. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being. Discover a range of resources from therapy options to medication management, tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a happier, and healthier you. Take the first step today in the wellness journey!
Currently accepting new clients throughout Nevada, New York, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington. Prioritize Your Mental Well-being. At Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC, we believe mental health matters. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being. Discover a range of resources from therapy options to medication management, tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a happier, and healthier you. Take the first step today in the wellness journey!

Jeanne Frances Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of experience in the healthcare field. I began my career in 2007 as a registered nurse on the oncology floor and then moved on to working in the emergency room. My goal as a provider is to help my patients regain the functionality they once had in whatever environment they are struggling in. My education and training allows me to assess, diagnosis, and treat various mental health disorders. I try to foster a laid back stress free environment so my patients are comfortable discussing sensitive subjects while maintaining the utmost privacy.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of experience in the healthcare field. I began my career in 2007 as a registered nurse on the oncology floor and then moved on to working in the emergency room. My goal as a provider is to help my patients regain the functionality they once had in whatever environment they are struggling in. My education and training allows me to assess, diagnosis, and treat various mental health disorders. I try to foster a laid back stress free environment so my patients are comfortable discussing sensitive subjects while maintaining the utmost privacy.
Dr. Sammy Gathiru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP -, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
See more therapy options for 98422
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98422
< 10
Psychiatrists in 98422 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Coping Skills |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Premera Blue Cross |
100% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in 98422 see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98422?
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.