Psychiatrists in 98660

Photo of Adam C Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam C Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! 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. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
(801) 876-4397 x2 View (801) 876-4397 x2
Photo of Davonna (Dee) Wilson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Embarking on the journey of seeking support takes immense courage, and I appreciate the strength it takes to reach out. As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate therapeutic support and Medication Management for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and more. Specializing in adults, children, and teenagers, my integrative approach unravels persistent patterns, empowering you to confront life's challenges with resilience. Let's collaboratively navigate your journey towards healing and growth.
Embarking on the journey of seeking support takes immense courage, and I appreciate the strength it takes to reach out. As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate therapeutic support and Medication Management for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and more. Specializing in adults, children, and teenagers, my integrative approach unravels persistent patterns, empowering you to confront life's challenges with resilience. Let's collaboratively navigate your journey towards healing and growth.
(360) 564-7718 View (360) 564-7718
Photo of Grant L Beloof, MD, Psychiatrist
Grant L Beloof
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
I hold certification General Adult Psychiatry as well as in Integrative and Holistic Medicine and was trained in the bio-psycho-social model of human development. I offer primarily medication management and will enjoy working in coordination with your usual therapist and when necessary, with physicians of other specialties. I often incorporate knowledge from my integrative and holistic background, including Asian theories of health, with more conventional care of patients. My preferred style of medication management is to carefully seek the lowest doses that are still consistent with full return of function.
I hold certification General Adult Psychiatry as well as in Integrative and Holistic Medicine and was trained in the bio-psycho-social model of human development. I offer primarily medication management and will enjoy working in coordination with your usual therapist and when necessary, with physicians of other specialties. I often incorporate knowledge from my integrative and holistic background, including Asian theories of health, with more conventional care of patients. My preferred style of medication management is to carefully seek the lowest doses that are still consistent with full return of function.
(503) 980-1273 View (503) 980-1273
Photo of Katelyn Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Katelyn Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you looking for a compassionate and holistic approach to your mental health? I’m Katelyn Smith, a Board-Certified Physician Assistant dedicated to supporting adults who are committed to their well-being. Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to help you achieve meaningful progress.
Are you looking for a compassionate and holistic approach to your mental health? I’m Katelyn Smith, a Board-Certified Physician Assistant dedicated to supporting adults who are committed to their well-being. Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to help you achieve meaningful progress.
(360) 302-4979 View (360) 302-4979
Photo of Megan Lewis, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, adult ADHD testing. I also provide innovative alternative treatments for depression such as TMS Therapy and Eskatmine Nasal Treatment. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, My goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, adult ADHD testing. I also provide innovative alternative treatments for depression such as TMS Therapy and Eskatmine Nasal Treatment. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, My goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
(360) 295-6140 View (360) 295-6140
Photo of Maggie Yorio, DNNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
(360) 203-6857 View (360) 203-6857
Photo of Naomi Kimani - Maitri Mental Health, LMFT, LMHC, QMHP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maitri Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMFT, LMHC, QMHP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Maitri Mental Health utilizes an integrated and innovative model to provide individuals with optimal health, bringing balance to body, mind, and spirit. We understand that the human experience involves transforming pain and provide care rooted in compassion and dignity for all individuals in the healing process. Through collaboration with our clients, our dynamic staff select treatments from various disciplines to tailor services to best meet the need. It is important that throughout the process, individuals feel safe, heard, and supported.
Maitri Mental Health utilizes an integrated and innovative model to provide individuals with optimal health, bringing balance to body, mind, and spirit. We understand that the human experience involves transforming pain and provide care rooted in compassion and dignity for all individuals in the healing process. Through collaboration with our clients, our dynamic staff select treatments from various disciplines to tailor services to best meet the need. It is important that throughout the process, individuals feel safe, heard, and supported.
(360) 233-8070 View (360) 233-8070
Photo of Kywina M. Henderson, MSN, RN, FNP, PMHNP, CSSGB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kywina M. Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, FNP, PMHNP, CSSGB
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
All Kynd Behavioral Health & Wellness (Caring for those in OR/WA), and seeing patients at PTC Med in CA (424) 588-5350. “Caring for people starts with Caring about people!” If you're seeking a provider who not only cares deeply for you but also values your unique journey, you've found the perfect match. With 30+ years of experience, I bring a rich & diverse background in healthcare, including leadership to the front lines, spanning emergency medicine, critical care, inpatient behavioral health, outpatient clinics & crisis stabilization units. Your well-being is my lifelong commitment. Available via Tele-Health & select in-person.
All Kynd Behavioral Health & Wellness (Caring for those in OR/WA), and seeing patients at PTC Med in CA (424) 588-5350. “Caring for people starts with Caring about people!” If you're seeking a provider who not only cares deeply for you but also values your unique journey, you've found the perfect match. With 30+ years of experience, I bring a rich & diverse background in healthcare, including leadership to the front lines, spanning emergency medicine, critical care, inpatient behavioral health, outpatient clinics & crisis stabilization units. Your well-being is my lifelong commitment. Available via Tele-Health & select in-person.
(360) 860-5801 View (360) 860-5801
Photo of John Benson - BBH Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BBH Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(503) 917-5672 View (503) 917-5672
Photo of Ragnar Scott, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ragnar Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
My ideal client is 15-55 and feeling stuck or overwhelmed by ADHD, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. They’re juggling school, work, and relationships, feeling the weight of trying to keep up. They want strategies that fit their life, symptoms managed, and a sense of control. They want to stop spinning their wheels and actually feel progress. Together, we create a path that feels doable and rooted in their strengths, aiming for meaningful growth without overwhelm. My role is to support them in feeling less overwhelmed, more empowered, and finally moving forward in a way that aligns with who they are.
My ideal client is 15-55 and feeling stuck or overwhelmed by ADHD, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. They’re juggling school, work, and relationships, feeling the weight of trying to keep up. They want strategies that fit their life, symptoms managed, and a sense of control. They want to stop spinning their wheels and actually feel progress. Together, we create a path that feels doable and rooted in their strengths, aiming for meaningful growth without overwhelm. My role is to support them in feeling less overwhelmed, more empowered, and finally moving forward in a way that aligns with who they are.
(360) 502-4109 View (360) 502-4109
Photo of Frances Murphy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Frances Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Frances Murphy is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine for adults. She provides medication management and psychoeducation to those suffering from various mental health conditions. She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, and trauma.
Frances Murphy is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-up visits remotely through telemedicine for adults. She provides medication management and psychoeducation to those suffering from various mental health conditions. She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, and trauma.
(360) 762-3515 View (360) 762-3515
Photo of Megan Lewis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
Are you seeking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health? Megan Lewis specializes in supporting adults who are invested in their mental well-being and are looking for comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, Megan’s goal is to address your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
(360) 516-1558 View (360) 516-1558
Photo of Dr. Jason Paul Jarria, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jason Paul Jarria
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
JAN 2025: I am currently accepting new patients! Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I believe mental health care isn’t just about symptom relief—it’s about helping you reach your full potential. Treatment should be collaborative and patient-centered, tailored to your values, lifestyle, and goals. I provide highly personalized, concierge-level care with longer appointments, direct communication, and a truly individualized approach to ensure thoughtful, unhurried treatment.
JAN 2025: I am currently accepting new patients! Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I believe mental health care isn’t just about symptom relief—it’s about helping you reach your full potential. Treatment should be collaborative and patient-centered, tailored to your values, lifestyle, and goals. I provide highly personalized, concierge-level care with longer appointments, direct communication, and a truly individualized approach to ensure thoughtful, unhurried treatment.
(360) 284-2940 View (360) 284-2940
Photo of Ed Kauffman, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ed Kauffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGACNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Many people are having a hard time getting in to see a provider who is available, without exorbitant prices, and has the time for their patients. Our price is only $89/month and that includes any follow up appointments as well as text / phone calls. All direct with your provider. No middle men involved.
Many people are having a hard time getting in to see a provider who is available, without exorbitant prices, and has the time for their patients. Our price is only $89/month and that includes any follow up appointments as well as text / phone calls. All direct with your provider. No middle men involved.
(360) 467-6743 View (360) 467-6743
Photo of Dr. Mark Joseph Hubbard - Affinity Health Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist
Affinity Health Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Dr. Hubbard struggled as a child, at home/school. He was diagnosed with dyslexia, severe depression/anxiety very early in life. He went through a very dark period which led him to places he never wanted to go. He turned his life around just prior to his 21st birthday. He started taking classes at community college and later completed a BS honors degree in Biochemistry. He then went on to Medical School, Internship and Residency. He worked in an Urgent Care setting until 2017 when he became the Medical Director at Columbia River Mental Health Services. "This experience changed my life and now focus on Mental Health and Addiction."
Dr. Hubbard struggled as a child, at home/school. He was diagnosed with dyslexia, severe depression/anxiety very early in life. He went through a very dark period which led him to places he never wanted to go. He turned his life around just prior to his 21st birthday. He started taking classes at community college and later completed a BS honors degree in Biochemistry. He then went on to Medical School, Internship and Residency. He worked in an Urgent Care setting until 2017 when he became the Medical Director at Columbia River Mental Health Services. "This experience changed my life and now focus on Mental Health and Addiction."
(360) 585-0546 View (360) 585-0546
Photo of Amanda Rapaport, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Rapaport
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Amanda Rapaport is dual board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
Amanda Rapaport is dual board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
(360) 845-1213 View (360) 845-1213
Photo of Robert Olsen, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Olsen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
(360) 525-1149 View (360) 525-1149
Photo of Bonnie Lambert, PMHNP, LPC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bonnie Lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, RN
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Visit BloomWellnessPdx.com. Mental health diagnoses can vary from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychosis, and personality disorders, among others. I believe that all things exist on a spectrum, and the intensity will vary. Due to this, diagnosis is an ever-evolving process that won’t happen with one session, but several and with rapport and trust. Information gathered in the initial evaluation is thoroughly reviewed to establish a diagnosis.
Visit BloomWellnessPdx.com. Mental health diagnoses can vary from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychosis, and personality disorders, among others. I believe that all things exist on a spectrum, and the intensity will vary. Due to this, diagnosis is an ever-evolving process that won’t happen with one session, but several and with rapport and trust. Information gathered in the initial evaluation is thoroughly reviewed to establish a diagnosis.
(971) 351-4287 View (971) 351-4287
Photo of Angela J Tefft, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela J Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
(469) 564-3435 View (469) 564-3435
Photo of Tara O'Connor, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
Waitlist for new clients
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
(503) 221-5778 View (503) 221-5778
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 98660

30+

Average cost per session

$237

Psychiatrists in 98660 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
89% Medication Management
86% Anxiety
86% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Bipolar Disorder
61% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Regence
83% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 98660 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 98660?

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.