Psychiatrists in 99201

Photo of Elita Wong - Elita Wong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elita Wong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.
Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.
(206) 531-7844 View (206) 531-7844
Photo of Angela J Tefft, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Angela J Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
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.
(509) 471-4563 View (509) 471-4563
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(360) 795-5027 x2 View (360) 795-5027 x2
Photo of Justine Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP,, MSN, BSN
Justine Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP,, MSN, BSN
Spokane, WA 99201
Hi, my name is Justine Jones and I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of nursing experience. I treat patients throughout the lifespan and particularly enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in mood disorders including ODD, DMDD, bipolar, depression, and anxiety, and am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have personal experience with the foster care system and with adoption. I believe in care with compassion and equality and in finding the good in every person. I will be in private practice and my business is InfluencingGrowth.
Hi, my name is Justine Jones and I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of nursing experience. I treat patients throughout the lifespan and particularly enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in mood disorders including ODD, DMDD, bipolar, depression, and anxiety, and am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have personal experience with the foster care system and with adoption. I believe in care with compassion and equality and in finding the good in every person. I will be in private practice and my business is InfluencingGrowth.
(509) 348-4951 View (509) 348-4951
Photo of Confidence Etuk - Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness, Pllc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness, Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness. I have over 9 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in treating patients with depression, anxiety and a wide range of mental disorders.
Hello, I am a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Journey of Hope Psychiatry and Wellness. I have over 9 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in treating patients with depression, anxiety and a wide range of mental disorders.
(509) 800-2619 View (509) 800-2619
Photo of Winnie J Bosire, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Winnie J Bosire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Spokane, WA 99201
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in Mental Health. By my actions, I’m dedicated to defining the standards of excellence and dedication to the health and safety of all the clients entrusted to my care. I’m known for my compassionate approach and active listening.
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in Mental Health. By my actions, I’m dedicated to defining the standards of excellence and dedication to the health and safety of all the clients entrusted to my care. I’m known for my compassionate approach and active listening.
(817) 678-1616 View (817) 678-1616
Photo of Lara Daphne Sison-Paredes - Daphne Sison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Daphne Sison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
If you're reading this, chances are you're carrying something heavy. Maybe it's anxiety, intrusive thoughts, nightmares from a past trauma, or mood swings that leave you feeling unsteady. Whatever your struggles, you don't have to navigate this by yourself. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I help find relief for adults with various mental health challenges, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD. My goal is to help you understand and manage your symptoms by providing a treatment approach that is tailored to your mental health and restore productivity and joy.
If you're reading this, chances are you're carrying something heavy. Maybe it's anxiety, intrusive thoughts, nightmares from a past trauma, or mood swings that leave you feeling unsteady. Whatever your struggles, you don't have to navigate this by yourself. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I help find relief for adults with various mental health challenges, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD. My goal is to help you understand and manage your symptoms by providing a treatment approach that is tailored to your mental health and restore productivity and joy.
(509) 800-2637 View (509) 800-2637
Photo of Angela T Kalem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Angela T Kalem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer evidence-based, comprehensive care that emphasizes the treatment of the whole person, not just the symptoms. Every client is treated as an individual. The need for medications or other services is assessed through a detailed medical, psychiatric, and social evaluation. The evaluation is followed by a collaborative discussion of treatment options guided by the client. Respecting the patients' role in the treatment process and encouraging self-care is an aspect of holistic care which leads to therapeutic consultation, hope, dignity, self-discipline, a sense of autonomy, vigor and vitality.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer evidence-based, comprehensive care that emphasizes the treatment of the whole person, not just the symptoms. Every client is treated as an individual. The need for medications or other services is assessed through a detailed medical, psychiatric, and social evaluation. The evaluation is followed by a collaborative discussion of treatment options guided by the client. Respecting the patients' role in the treatment process and encouraging self-care is an aspect of holistic care which leads to therapeutic consultation, hope, dignity, self-discipline, a sense of autonomy, vigor and vitality.
Photo of Jennifer Shaw - NuPath Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, ARNP, MSN, BSN
NuPath Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, ARNP, MSN, BSN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
We specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care, offering psychotropic medication management, and mental health diagnoses. We also offer Integrative Medicine, which provides a holistic approach incorporating various modalities like nutrition, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes, alongside traditional treatments.
We specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care, offering psychotropic medication management, and mental health diagnoses. We also offer Integrative Medicine, which provides a holistic approach incorporating various modalities like nutrition, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes, alongside traditional treatments.
(509) 341-0374 View (509) 341-0374
Photo of Alicia Valentino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Alicia Valentino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Spokane, WA 99201
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in Washington state and nationally board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I earned both my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees at Pacific Lutheran University. Before pursuing my career in nursing, I spent 4 years on active duty in the United States Navy. Hooyah!
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in Washington state and nationally board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I earned both my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees at Pacific Lutheran University. Before pursuing my career in nursing, I spent 4 years on active duty in the United States Navy. Hooyah!
(206) 339-7653 View (206) 339-7653
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Spokane, WA 99201
Olivier is a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with nine years of experience providing mental health services in acute and outpatient settings. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Accepting new patients.....Book your Appointment.
Olivier is a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with nine years of experience providing mental health services in acute and outpatient settings. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Accepting new patients.....Book your Appointment.
(509) 341-0659 View (509) 341-0659
Photo of Thomas Richard Yarber - Mabuhay Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP
Mabuhay Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I work with adults and children navigating challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). My approach combines evidence-based therapies—like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and cognitive processing therapy (CPT)—with compassionate, client-centered care. When appropriate, I also provide psychotropic medication management to support your mental health journey.
I work with adults and children navigating challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). My approach combines evidence-based therapies—like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and cognitive processing therapy (CPT)—with compassionate, client-centered care. When appropriate, I also provide psychotropic medication management to support your mental health journey.
(509) 632-4177 View (509) 632-4177
Photo of Melody Bemis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Melody Bemis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Spokane, WA 99201
Hello, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner serving the Inland Northwest. I have over 20 years' experience with psychiatric care serving adults ages 18-100. I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnostic evaluations and medication when needed. My patients are always my top priority. I focus on understanding and knowing you and your goals. I am interested in helping you to become more empowered as you discover your own true self. I use a holistic and evidence-based approach to help you find a treatment that meets your needs.
Hello, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner serving the Inland Northwest. I have over 20 years' experience with psychiatric care serving adults ages 18-100. I provide psychiatric assessments, diagnostic evaluations and medication when needed. My patients are always my top priority. I focus on understanding and knowing you and your goals. I am interested in helping you to become more empowered as you discover your own true self. I use a holistic and evidence-based approach to help you find a treatment that meets your needs.
(509) 652-2157 x10193 View (509) 652-2157 x10193
Photo of Candice Barnett, Psychiatrist, MD
Candice Barnett
Psychiatrist, MD
Spokane, WA 99201
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
(509) 400-5770 View (509) 400-5770
Photo of Ify Nwankwo - Neo Minds Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Neo Minds Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am currently accepting New Patients via telehealth in the State of Washington. At Neo Minds Psychiatry, I provide evidence based, holistic psychiatric assessment for clients with mental health issues. Please call or schedule for your appointment today. We have evening and weekend hours available.
I am currently accepting New Patients via telehealth in the State of Washington. At Neo Minds Psychiatry, I provide evidence based, holistic psychiatric assessment for clients with mental health issues. Please call or schedule for your appointment today. We have evening and weekend hours available.
(509) 204-9733 View (509) 204-9733
Photo of Eric Aniekwena - Resilient Mental Health Care Services PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Resilient Mental Health Care Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
NOW Accepting NEW Clients! Be seen early as two days from first contact! At Resilient Mental Health Care Services PLLC, we believe that every individual should have access to high-quality mental health care services. Specializing in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, and experience with many more disorders ; Our personalized approach to treatment is designed to empower individuals and families.
NOW Accepting NEW Clients! Be seen early as two days from first contact! At Resilient Mental Health Care Services PLLC, we believe that every individual should have access to high-quality mental health care services. Specializing in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, and experience with many more disorders ; Our personalized approach to treatment is designed to empower individuals and families.
(509) 479-6445 View (509) 479-6445
Photo of Thomas Yarber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Thomas Yarber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They may be a first responder, veteran, or anyone facing significant life stressors, seeking relief from overwhelming emotions or disruptive thoughts. Their needs include compassionate understanding, clear guidance, and effective treatment options like therapy and medication management. They want to regain control of their life, find emotional balance, and achieve long-term mental well-being through a collaborative, supportive approach.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They may be a first responder, veteran, or anyone facing significant life stressors, seeking relief from overwhelming emotions or disruptive thoughts. Their needs include compassionate understanding, clear guidance, and effective treatment options like therapy and medication management. They want to regain control of their life, find emotional balance, and achieve long-term mental well-being through a collaborative, supportive approach.
(564) 241-1019 View (564) 241-1019
Photo of Rhiannon Armstrong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Rhiannon Armstrong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Rhiannon Armstrong, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, brings four years of dedicated practice to her role, embodying a commitment to empowering clients and building trust as the cornerstones of mental health care. With a comprehensive background, Rhiannon's expertise spans various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, trauma related disorders, and personality disorders. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in collaboration, compassion, and evidence-based practices tailored to individual needs.
Rhiannon Armstrong, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, brings four years of dedicated practice to her role, embodying a commitment to empowering clients and building trust as the cornerstones of mental health care. With a comprehensive background, Rhiannon's expertise spans various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, trauma related disorders, and personality disorders. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in collaboration, compassion, and evidence-based practices tailored to individual needs.
(509) 401-8259 View (509) 401-8259
Photo of Dirk Singleton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, IPP-C
Dirk Singleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, IPP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I’m Dirk and I am glad you are here. It is important that we all recognize the potential in one another to be resilient and empowered–as well as the possibility that we may face challenges that are too much to overcome on our own. My goal is to empower your mental health journey by exploring your unique life story and investigating how each aspect of your body, mind, and spirit impacts your mental health… and then support you in finding lasting balance.
Hello! I’m Dirk and I am glad you are here. It is important that we all recognize the potential in one another to be resilient and empowered–as well as the possibility that we may face challenges that are too much to overcome on our own. My goal is to empower your mental health journey by exploring your unique life story and investigating how each aspect of your body, mind, and spirit impacts your mental health… and then support you in finding lasting balance.
(509) 236-8620 View (509) 236-8620
Photo of Oladayo Momoh - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My practice integrates clinical assessment with evidence-based therapeutic interventions and a collaborative approach to care. When you choose to work with me, you can expect a warm and empathetic environment where you are heard and valued. If you're ready to explore a holistic path toward improved well-being, I invite you to reach out. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!
My practice integrates clinical assessment with evidence-based therapeutic interventions and a collaborative approach to care. When you choose to work with me, you can expect a warm and empathetic environment where you are heard and valued. If you're ready to explore a holistic path toward improved well-being, I invite you to reach out. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!
(509) 512-2524 View (509) 512-2524

See more therapy options for 99201

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 99201

100+

Average cost per session

$195

Psychiatrists in 99201 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
79% Medication Management
76% Trauma and PTSD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 99201 see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 99201?

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.