Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of High Desert Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
High Desert Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
(541) 625-1617 View (541) 625-1617
Photo of Sari Matisoff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sari Matisoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Update - Emails from psychology today seem to be getting lost, please fill out the new client inquiry form at www.hmhpdx.com/new-client-inquiries-1 to ensure your communication to the office does not get missed! I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ages 18-64. I have a BA in psychology from Willamette University and Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees in nursing from OHSU. I am licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington. I see psychiatric medications as an added tool to aid in overall well-being, and enjoy working with clients on how to maximize wellness with the least amount of medication needed.
Update - Emails from psychology today seem to be getting lost, please fill out the new client inquiry form at www.hmhpdx.com/new-client-inquiries-1 to ensure your communication to the office does not get missed! I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ages 18-64. I have a BA in psychology from Willamette University and Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees in nursing from OHSU. I am licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington. I see psychiatric medications as an added tool to aid in overall well-being, and enjoy working with clients on how to maximize wellness with the least amount of medication needed.
(971) 290-5261 View (971) 290-5261
Photo of Sara Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sara Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
Sara is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Oregon. She specializes in treating adults with mood disorders and ADHD. She blends her expertise with a patient's mental health goals, using a combination of medication & limited psychotherapy. Building a trusting collaborative relationship is paramount to her. Sara has a particular interest in providing trauma informed care, believing it is essential to consider the impact our past experiences have on emotional and behavioral health. She strives to be neuro-inclusive.
(971) 265-6035 View (971) 265-6035
Photo of Nwamaka Emeruem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
(480) 525-6840 View (480) 525-6840
Photo of Kristen Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristen Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I use a trauma-informed approach to mental health that includes both medication management and psychotherapy. I employ a Health at Every Size philosophy that prioritizes whole person wellness above a weight-centric perspective. In my practice, the client is at the helm of choosing what issues to work on. A holistic approach is favored over one-size-fits-all formulas. As most people today are touched by mental health struggles, whether it be their own or their loved ones, we can use those experiences to learn to ground spiritually and mentally.
I use a trauma-informed approach to mental health that includes both medication management and psychotherapy. I employ a Health at Every Size philosophy that prioritizes whole person wellness above a weight-centric perspective. In my practice, the client is at the helm of choosing what issues to work on. A holistic approach is favored over one-size-fits-all formulas. As most people today are touched by mental health struggles, whether it be their own or their loved ones, we can use those experiences to learn to ground spiritually and mentally.
(503) 868-0536 View (503) 868-0536
Photo of Alexandra Gomez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Alexandra Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Hi, are you looking for more holistic- patient-centered care? I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with mental health issues with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental. I work hard to help my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing. We provide Telehealth visits in Oregon.
Hi, are you looking for more holistic- patient-centered care? I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with mental health issues with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental. I work hard to help my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing. We provide Telehealth visits in Oregon.
(503) 506-4575 View (503) 506-4575
Photo of Pacific Northwest Health, LLC, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Pacific Northwest Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Covid-19 has challenged many basic expectations about how the world functions, and how we live in it. During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
Covid-19 has challenged many basic expectations about how the world functions, and how we live in it. During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
Photo of James Harrison Powers, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
James Harrison Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Not accepting new clients
Every individual comes to therapy with a need to be deeply understood. We all experience longing. We suffer, celebrate and grapple with psychological pain. There are areas of our life that lack liveliness or vitality. We struggle in ways that are deeply private and that may not be fully known even to ourselves. I strive to help each person feel safe enough that such private feelings can emerge and be explored. Whether you are looking for help through a crisis or with long-standing psychological suffering, my hope is to understand who you are uniquely as an individual.
Every individual comes to therapy with a need to be deeply understood. We all experience longing. We suffer, celebrate and grapple with psychological pain. There are areas of our life that lack liveliness or vitality. We struggle in ways that are deeply private and that may not be fully known even to ourselves. I strive to help each person feel safe enough that such private feelings can emerge and be explored. Whether you are looking for help through a crisis or with long-standing psychological suffering, my hope is to understand who you are uniquely as an individual.
(503) 564-1324 x112 View (503) 564-1324 x112
Photo of Jazmyn Price, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jazmyn Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
(503) 832-5997 View (503) 832-5997
Photo of Nancy C Winters, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Nancy C Winters
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I specialize in psychoanalysis, an intensive, in-depth form of psychotherapy for people who are confronting repetitive and confusing patterns in life preventing them from living more fully. My approach involves careful listening and responsiveness to your unique mind and a sharing of your curiosity and commitment to deeper self-understanding and progressive freedom.
I specialize in psychoanalysis, an intensive, in-depth form of psychotherapy for people who are confronting repetitive and confusing patterns in life preventing them from living more fully. My approach involves careful listening and responsiveness to your unique mind and a sharing of your curiosity and commitment to deeper self-understanding and progressive freedom.
(503) 567-2034 View (503) 567-2034
Photo of Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
(458) 225-5152 View (458) 225-5152
Photo of Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
(971) 606-4912 x1 View (971) 606-4912 x1
Photo of Helen Caldwell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Helen Caldwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
(971) 231-2646 View (971) 231-2646
Photo of Jeffrey Carlson, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Jeffrey Carlson
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Providing psychiatric consultation and ongoing treatment, primarily serving late adolescents and young adults. At the present time, I am not taking new patients.
Providing psychiatric consultation and ongoing treatment, primarily serving late adolescents and young adults. At the present time, I am not taking new patients.
(503) 738-1781 View (503) 738-1781
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
(971) 308-4610 View (971) 308-4610
Photo of Thomas A Veeder, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Thomas A Veeder
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist focusing on providing psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychiatric consultation services. I am comfortable treating clients with a wide range of emotional or psychiatric difficulties including acute crisis, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and/or life transition issues. In addition to having a small private practice, I am on faculty at the Oregon Health & Sciences University, where I teach, practice, and supervise residents, focusing on inpatient and outpatient management of a wide array of psychiatric conditions.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist focusing on providing psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychiatric consultation services. I am comfortable treating clients with a wide range of emotional or psychiatric difficulties including acute crisis, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and/or life transition issues. In addition to having a small private practice, I am on faculty at the Oregon Health & Sciences University, where I teach, practice, and supervise residents, focusing on inpatient and outpatient management of a wide array of psychiatric conditions.
(503) 893-8612 View (503) 893-8612
Photo of Maria Dotsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Maria Dotsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-PM
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of mental health experience working with adolescents/adults and my skills and experience allows me to assist you in setting appropriate life goals and defining strategies to accomplish those goals. There is no set approach for mental health care. Every patient is unique and will be treated as such. I will customize your experience and help you to achieve optimal health.
I have over 20 years of mental health experience working with adolescents/adults and my skills and experience allows me to assist you in setting appropriate life goals and defining strategies to accomplish those goals. There is no set approach for mental health care. Every patient is unique and will be treated as such. I will customize your experience and help you to achieve optimal health.
(503) 564-7871 View (503) 564-7871
Photo of Michelle Dahl, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michelle Dahl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing issues with depression/mood, anxiety or other psychological issues, age 18-65 and looking for psychiatric medication management then contact me. I approach treatment in a collaborative way. I find the best outcomes when clients are fully engaged in their treatment. While medications can be a very helpful it will not be a fix all. Often medication should be accompanied by therapy and learning additional skills. While I do not do therapy only I can offer some supportive therapy, but this is not meant to replace an individual therapist if needed.
If you are experiencing issues with depression/mood, anxiety or other psychological issues, age 18-65 and looking for psychiatric medication management then contact me. I approach treatment in a collaborative way. I find the best outcomes when clients are fully engaged in their treatment. While medications can be a very helpful it will not be a fix all. Often medication should be accompanied by therapy and learning additional skills. While I do not do therapy only I can offer some supportive therapy, but this is not meant to replace an individual therapist if needed.
(503) 400-3652 View (503) 400-3652
Photo of Megan Vandell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Megan Vandell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
(503) 738-1346 View (503) 738-1346
Photo of Joshua Dow, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Joshua Dow
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97280  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm so sorry that I'm not currently accepting new clients. (I'll change this statement when I'm ready to accept new clients, though it's okay that I get calls to double check. I know it can be very stressful to find a therapist, especially in the pandemic.) If you'd like to read further for future reference: I'm an adult & child psychiatrist, with experience with families and foster kids, but I've transitioned most of my focus to adults, and I do individual talk therapy, on a weekly or biweekly basis, by video/telehealth (I no longer have an in-person office) and sometimes with diet or supplements or very cautious use of medication.
I'm so sorry that I'm not currently accepting new clients. (I'll change this statement when I'm ready to accept new clients, though it's okay that I get calls to double check. I know it can be very stressful to find a therapist, especially in the pandemic.) If you'd like to read further for future reference: I'm an adult & child psychiatrist, with experience with families and foster kids, but I've transitioned most of my focus to adults, and I do individual talk therapy, on a weekly or biweekly basis, by video/telehealth (I no longer have an in-person office) and sometimes with diet or supplements or very cautious use of medication.
(503) 966-4586 View (503) 966-4586

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

400+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
81% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
72% ADHD
72% Bipolar Disorder
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Aetna
68% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

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

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

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

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

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

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

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

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?

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

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

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