Psychiatrists in 99202

Photo of Clayton Pulver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Clayton Pulver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
I have always viewed the patient-provider relationship as a partnership. I aim to earn my patient's trust through positive outcomes and interactions.
I have always viewed the patient-provider relationship as a partnership. I aim to earn my patient's trust through positive outcomes and interactions.
(509) 397-8754 View (509) 397-8754
Photo of Kiira Tietjen - New Chapter TMS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
New Chapter TMS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
We offer TMS treatment for depression and anxiety that has not responded to medication. New Chapter TMS utilizes a Neurostar machine, which is the most popular and most effective brand of TMS machine.
We offer TMS treatment for depression and anxiety that has not responded to medication. New Chapter TMS utilizes a Neurostar machine, which is the most popular and most effective brand of TMS machine.
(509) 268-4022 View (509) 268-4022
Photo of Stacey Garland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stacey Garland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
Hello! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and am here to assist you with your mental wellness journey. I believe every person's journey is unique, and we will work closely together to improve yours. I believe that clients should be actively involved in making decisions that directly affect their mental wellness. I have 25 years of experience in the healthcare field as a registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, including both outpatient and inpatient client care. I offer diagnostic, medication management, and genetic testing for medication metabolism.
Hello! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and am here to assist you with your mental wellness journey. I believe every person's journey is unique, and we will work closely together to improve yours. I believe that clients should be actively involved in making decisions that directly affect their mental wellness. I have 25 years of experience in the healthcare field as a registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, including both outpatient and inpatient client care. I offer diagnostic, medication management, and genetic testing for medication metabolism.
(509) 646-7678 View (509) 646-7678
Photo of Dylan Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Dylan Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
Welcome! My name is Dylan - I want work with you to find a treatment plan to meet your goals. Your concerns and questions are put at the center of our decision-making process. I feel strongly that those who endure mental illness and/or substance use disorders in our community have the innate capacity to live fulfilling and meaningful lives. Reducing the stigma of mental illnesses and substance use disorders is one of the biggest goals in my practice. I will always work to ensure you never feel judged. The path to recovery and treatment is non-linear. I am here to support you through every step of the way.
Welcome! My name is Dylan - I want work with you to find a treatment plan to meet your goals. Your concerns and questions are put at the center of our decision-making process. I feel strongly that those who endure mental illness and/or substance use disorders in our community have the innate capacity to live fulfilling and meaningful lives. Reducing the stigma of mental illnesses and substance use disorders is one of the biggest goals in my practice. I will always work to ensure you never feel judged. The path to recovery and treatment is non-linear. I am here to support you through every step of the way.
(509) 519-1504 View (509) 519-1504
Gianni Giuliani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, BC, PMHNP
Spokane, WA 99202
When people reach out for help in dealing with life stressors, I respond in a timely, compassionate, respectful manner and seek to form a therapeutic relationship built on acceptance and trust. I help patients to find new ways to use their existing strengths in areas they find stressful and difficult. I seek out and harness their motivation to change and to enhance coping skills to effectively manage ongoing difficulties and to construct a life worth living. Therapy is a partnership that assists in functioning effectively in the present.
When people reach out for help in dealing with life stressors, I respond in a timely, compassionate, respectful manner and seek to form a therapeutic relationship built on acceptance and trust. I help patients to find new ways to use their existing strengths in areas they find stressful and difficult. I seek out and harness their motivation to change and to enhance coping skills to effectively manage ongoing difficulties and to construct a life worth living. Therapy is a partnership that assists in functioning effectively in the present.
(509) 319-1087 View (509) 319-1087
Jason E Vestal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
Our patient's want freedom. They want to reclaim their dignity and restore life balance. I am proficient in a variety of different approaches and my areas of practice include substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, major depressive disorder, trauma, anxiety and panic disorders, bipolar type 1 and 2, couples, PTSD, children, teens, and many LGBTQ related needs. I proudly offer medication management for our community members and strive for a positive outcome with all of our patients. Simply put, I want to help you make a triumphant return. Join us in going Beyond! at Beyond Behavioral Health
Our patient's want freedom. They want to reclaim their dignity and restore life balance. I am proficient in a variety of different approaches and my areas of practice include substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, major depressive disorder, trauma, anxiety and panic disorders, bipolar type 1 and 2, couples, PTSD, children, teens, and many LGBTQ related needs. I proudly offer medication management for our community members and strive for a positive outcome with all of our patients. Simply put, I want to help you make a triumphant return. Join us in going Beyond! at Beyond Behavioral Health
(509) 253-3967 View (509) 253-3967
Photo of Kayla Cross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MA
Kayla Cross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MA
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
Welcome to Bloom Psychiatry. My name is Kayla Cross, I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health and/or substance use disorders. I offer treatment both in person or virtually. My mission is to support your recovery from mood, thought, anxiety and/or substance use disorders through medication management. I am here to help you realize goals defined by you and to support you to live your best life. I will help you develop a treatment plan that works for your life and goals.
Welcome to Bloom Psychiatry. My name is Kayla Cross, I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health and/or substance use disorders. I offer treatment both in person or virtually. My mission is to support your recovery from mood, thought, anxiety and/or substance use disorders through medication management. I am here to help you realize goals defined by you and to support you to live your best life. I will help you develop a treatment plan that works for your life and goals.
(509) 565-2044 View (509) 565-2044
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
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
(888) 909-8676 View (888) 909-8676
Photo of Lashandra Saulsberry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lashandra Saulsberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Shandra is dedicated to providing warm, compassionate care to each individual throughout their healing journey. She treats complex mood and anxiety disorders, panic disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Women’s Health, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Insomnia, Grief and Loss, Life transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder LGBTQ+ issues, panic disorder and more.
Shandra is dedicated to providing warm, compassionate care to each individual throughout their healing journey. She treats complex mood and anxiety disorders, panic disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Women’s Health, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Insomnia, Grief and Loss, Life transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder LGBTQ+ issues, panic disorder and more.
(240) 563-9818 View (240) 563-9818
Photo of Ursula Avilus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ursula Avilus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my page! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and owner of Hope Restored Behavioral Health Services. I am committed to assisting adults and elderly dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and more live a healthy fulfilled life. I believe in each individual’s potential for personal growth, and strive to provide the best treatment possible through individualized, evidence-based care. I am currently accepting new clients in Florida, Texas, Washington State and New Mexico. Same day and Next Day appointments are available.
Welcome to my page! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and owner of Hope Restored Behavioral Health Services. I am committed to assisting adults and elderly dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and more live a healthy fulfilled life. I believe in each individual’s potential for personal growth, and strive to provide the best treatment possible through individualized, evidence-based care. I am currently accepting new clients in Florida, Texas, Washington State and New Mexico. Same day and Next Day appointments are available.
(509) 785-7904 View (509) 785-7904
Photo of Miranda Townsend, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Miranda Townsend
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal youth are age 5-25, seeking support for mental health or developmental disabilities. If you are having difficulty managing symptoms or suspect you might have a mental health condition, I encourage you not to stay silent any longer. If you’re a caregiver or someone impacted by intellectual or developmental differences, seeking support for symptom management is vital, and I’m here to help. Additionally, if you’re looking for an evaluation for autism spectrum disorder, I have been conducting assessments since 2018 and would be happy to support you in this process.
My ideal youth are age 5-25, seeking support for mental health or developmental disabilities. If you are having difficulty managing symptoms or suspect you might have a mental health condition, I encourage you not to stay silent any longer. If you’re a caregiver or someone impacted by intellectual or developmental differences, seeking support for symptom management is vital, and I’m here to help. Additionally, if you’re looking for an evaluation for autism spectrum disorder, I have been conducting assessments since 2018 and would be happy to support you in this process.
(509) 606-0708 View (509) 606-0708
Photo of Jeffrey Schack, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey Schack
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Jeffrey is a graduate of The Chicago Medical School and completed his psychiatry residency from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. He believes in a cognitive behavioral orientation and provides pharmacotherapy or individual psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. He works with patients 18 years or older and has experience treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, medical conditions, OCD, post partum depression, PTSD and sleep disorders. In his spare time, he enjoys music, gardening and the outdoors.
Jeffrey is a graduate of The Chicago Medical School and completed his psychiatry residency from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. He believes in a cognitive behavioral orientation and provides pharmacotherapy or individual psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. He works with patients 18 years or older and has experience treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, medical conditions, OCD, post partum depression, PTSD and sleep disorders. In his spare time, he enjoys music, gardening and the outdoors.
(509) 257-4475 View (509) 257-4475
Photo of Erika Bales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(206) 207-3134 View (206) 207-3134
Photo of Dr. Sandra Bremner-Dexter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sandra Bremner-Dexter
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Sandra Bremner-Dexter is a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist at LifeStance Health, offering individualized therapy and medication management to patients across Washington. She partners with children, teens, and adults to provide thoughtful, evidence-based care that addresses both emotional well-being and overall mental health. With a warm and collaborative style, Sandra empowers clients to better understand themselves, manage symptoms, and build meaningful, balanced lives. With over two decades of clinical experience, Sandra supports individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
Sandra Bremner-Dexter is a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist at LifeStance Health, offering individualized therapy and medication management to patients across Washington. She partners with children, teens, and adults to provide thoughtful, evidence-based care that addresses both emotional well-being and overall mental health. With a warm and collaborative style, Sandra empowers clients to better understand themselves, manage symptoms, and build meaningful, balanced lives. With over two decades of clinical experience, Sandra supports individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(509) 632-3882 View (509) 632-3882
Photo of Patricia Greim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Patricia Greim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I am Tricia. I offer video-based telehealth for adult medication and psychotherapy, from anywhere in Washington State. I also offer in-person appointments on Fridays at my office in Kirkland, Washington. Together, we will build a healing partnership centered on your well-being.
Hello, I am Tricia. I offer video-based telehealth for adult medication and psychotherapy, from anywhere in Washington State. I also offer in-person appointments on Fridays at my office in Kirkland, Washington. Together, we will build a healing partnership centered on your well-being.
(425) 620-4939 View (425) 620-4939
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Schack - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(509) 412-3249 View (509) 412-3249
Photo of Paul Okoronkwo - Freedom Psychiatry Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Freedom Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in a public place? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new clients and we accept most of commercial health insurance. We accept Kaiser Permanente Insurance. Check out what other people are saying about us: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in a public place? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new clients and we accept most of commercial health insurance. We accept Kaiser Permanente Insurance. Check out what other people are saying about us: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
(206) 984-6947 View (206) 984-6947
Photo of Damaris Aragon - Aragon Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Aragon Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
19 Endorsed
Serves Area
We do not have a waiting list. Resident of Spokane, WA. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? No one should have to endure such feelings alone. Reach out to our mental health professionals today. Let us navigate this journey towards healing and understanding together. You deserve to live a life free from the burdens of untreated mental health issues.
We do not have a waiting list. Resident of Spokane, WA. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? No one should have to endure such feelings alone. Reach out to our mental health professionals today. Let us navigate this journey towards healing and understanding together. You deserve to live a life free from the burdens of untreated mental health issues.
(509) 309-0325 View (509) 309-0325
Photo of Frantz Georges, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Frantz Georges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been workinag as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
Hello this is Dr. Frantz Georges (psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I’ve been workinag as mental health nurse for over 25 years and as a practitioner the past 6 years. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders. I treat each one of my patients individually and provide the best possible care to them. If you are looking for someone to listen to your needs and to take time to understand your problems (situation); you have found the right provider. Once again I treat individuals from 5-100 years old with a variety of mental health disorders.
(206) 397-0386 View (206) 397-0386
Photo of Candice Barnett, Psychiatrist, MD
Candice Barnett
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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

See more therapy options for 99202

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 99202

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 99202 who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
85% Anxiety
81% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
73% Medication Management
69% Trauma and PTSD
54% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
96% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
91% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 99202 see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 99202?

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.