Psychiatrists in 98501

Photo of Jeanette G Revay, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanette G Revay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
We facilitate lives to sobriety and returning them to their path of becoming the person they were meant to be. I believe that everyone is created for a purpose. With our help, we will help you to find freedom to find that purpose through treatment, compassion and fellowship. Helping family and friends to understand what has happened with their loved one and why. Help them to understand what addiction is and to understand the way back and the possibilities available to their loved one and how they can help them to recover. Help the addicted one and their family to restore family relationships that have been damaged and broken
We facilitate lives to sobriety and returning them to their path of becoming the person they were meant to be. I believe that everyone is created for a purpose. With our help, we will help you to find freedom to find that purpose through treatment, compassion and fellowship. Helping family and friends to understand what has happened with their loved one and why. Help them to understand what addiction is and to understand the way back and the possibilities available to their loved one and how they can help them to recover. Help the addicted one and their family to restore family relationships that have been damaged and broken
(360) 810-5440 View (360) 810-5440
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
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 Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.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 Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(360) 284-1573 View (360) 284-1573
Photo of Claire A Tilley, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Claire A Tilley
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Washington. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, panic disorders, OCD, PTSD & bipolar disorders. I appreciate the unique strengths and insights that all people develop through their life experiences.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Washington. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, panic disorders, OCD, PTSD & bipolar disorders. I appreciate the unique strengths and insights that all people develop through their life experiences.
(206) 489-2964 View (206) 489-2964
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you have racing thoughts, have nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you have racing thoughts, have nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
(360) 535-7847 View (360) 535-7847
Photo of Christle Stanton, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christle Stanton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christle and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christle is a board-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her healthcare career over 15 years ago as a registered nurse. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in family medicine in 2012. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christle and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christle is a board-certified Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her healthcare career over 15 years ago as a registered nurse. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in family medicine in 2012. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
(360) 284-1363 View (360) 284-1363
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.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 Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(360) 583-5997 View (360) 583-5997
Photo of Valerie Brandt, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valerie Brandt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tumwater, WA 98501  (Online Only)
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate and evidence-based care to clients ages 18 and up. I help clients work through issues including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, and ADHD. With a special focus and passion for healthcare workers and first responders, I bring a unique understanding of the challenges and stressors faced by those in demanding professions and the psychological impact of high-stress environments. Whether it's managing work-related stress, navigating trauma exposure, or addressing burnout, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to heal and thrive.
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate and evidence-based care to clients ages 18 and up. I help clients work through issues including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, and ADHD. With a special focus and passion for healthcare workers and first responders, I bring a unique understanding of the challenges and stressors faced by those in demanding professions and the psychological impact of high-stress environments. Whether it's managing work-related stress, navigating trauma exposure, or addressing burnout, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to heal and thrive.
(360) 854-3318 View (360) 854-3318
Photo of Alyssa Larson, DNP, PMHNP , FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alyssa Larson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Alyssa and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Alyssa Larson is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Since receiving her Doctor of Nursing Practice, she has worked closely with patients suffering from a range of mental health disorders in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and adolescent mental health, as well as addiction medicine. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Alyssa and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Alyssa Larson is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Since receiving her Doctor of Nursing Practice, she has worked closely with patients suffering from a range of mental health disorders in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and adolescent mental health, as well as addiction medicine. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
(360) 994-1545 View (360) 994-1545
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(360) 492-4403 View (360) 492-4403
Photo of Diana Wilcox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diana Wilcox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tumwater, WA 98501
Accepting new patients! Is your battle with depression taking too much out of you? Is your child in need of mental health support? I am a board-certified Gonzaga Trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My main focus is on offering medication-free treatment for depression through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). In addition to TMS treatments, I work with children and adolescents. Our office is the only one in Tumwater that offers TMS for adolescents ages 15 and up. We have impressive remision rates of depression - 62 percent. No medication!
Accepting new patients! Is your battle with depression taking too much out of you? Is your child in need of mental health support? I am a board-certified Gonzaga Trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My main focus is on offering medication-free treatment for depression through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). In addition to TMS treatments, I work with children and adolescents. Our office is the only one in Tumwater that offers TMS for adolescents ages 15 and up. We have impressive remision rates of depression - 62 percent. No medication!
(360) 367-3088 View (360) 367-3088
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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
(360) 997-5552 View (360) 997-5552
Photo of Boyd Cowan, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Boyd Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
To book an appointment please visit the website boydcowan.com
To book an appointment please visit the website boydcowan.com
View
Photo of Diana Wilcox - ClearTMS+, TMS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ClearTMS+
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, TMS
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression or other mental health challenges? We understand how difficult it can be to find a treatment that works for you. But there's no need to lose hope. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, revolutionary, and non-invasive solution that can help you unlock a brighter tomorrow. At ClearTMS+, we believe in transforming minds and elevating lives. That's why we offer a personalized, safe, and effective approach that can help you revitalize your well-being. We understand that every journey to mental health is unique, which is why we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. With TMS Therapy, you can elevate your mood, restore balance, and rediscover the joy of living. Experience the transformative power of non-invasive technology and embrace a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Schedule a TMS therapy consultation with us today and join the journey to mental well-being.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression or other mental health challenges? We understand how difficult it can be to find a treatment that works for you. But there's no need to lose hope. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, revolutionary, and non-invasive solution that can help you unlock a brighter tomorrow. At ClearTMS+, we believe in transforming minds and elevating lives. That's why we offer a personalized, safe, and effective approach that can help you revitalize your well-being. We understand that every journey to mental health is unique, which is why we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. With TMS Therapy, you can elevate your mood, restore balance, and rediscover the joy of living. Experience the transformative power of non-invasive technology and embrace a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Schedule a TMS therapy consultation with us today and join the journey to mental well-being.
(360) 523-1403 View (360) 523-1403
Photo of Harvey Hall, PMHNP, FNP-C, CCM-R, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harvey Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, CCM-R, ARNP
Verified Verified
Tumwater, WA 98501
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
(360) 346-9520 View (360) 346-9520
Photo of Edward Rosanski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edward Rosanski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
(360) 615-2690 View (360) 615-2690
Photo of Febbie Mutindori, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Febbie Mutindori
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tumwater, WA 98501
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), passionate about helping individuals achieve emotional well-being. I hold a Master's degree in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), passionate about helping individuals achieve emotional well-being. I hold a Master's degree in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health.
(360) 531-7957 View (360) 531-7957
Photo of Anywhere Wellness ~Desirae Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ~Counseling-Meds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anywhere Wellness ~Desirae Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ~Counseling-Meds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
Are you looking to create a better life for yourself? I'm glad you took this courageous step, so you can experience healing and growth. Many have experienced setbacks, hardships, and traumas in life that make it harder to love well and fulfill personal goals. . Through a compassionate and empathetic approach, I have helped individuals overcome their struggles and achieve personal growth. I will partner with you to navigate stressful life changes, ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma and more. I can start teaching you how to feel better in your first session.My training allows me to treat physical, spiritual, and mental.
Are you looking to create a better life for yourself? I'm glad you took this courageous step, so you can experience healing and growth. Many have experienced setbacks, hardships, and traumas in life that make it harder to love well and fulfill personal goals. . Through a compassionate and empathetic approach, I have helped individuals overcome their struggles and achieve personal growth. I will partner with you to navigate stressful life changes, ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma and more. I can start teaching you how to feel better in your first session.My training allows me to treat physical, spiritual, and mental.
(360) 564-1614 View (360) 564-1614
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
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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Photo of Adam Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
(971) 791-2946 View (971) 791-2946
Photo of Linda Kellams-Keith, ARNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Kellams-Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tumwater, WA 98501
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
(360) 709-3332 View (360) 709-3332
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98501

30+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 98501 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
91% Medication Management
89% Depression
86% Trauma and PTSD
83% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
81% Premera
78% Regence

How Psychiatrists in 98501 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98501?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.