Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Njideka Domrufus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 224-7994 View (971) 224-7994
Photo of Andrea Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Andrea Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been, and is viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community", and I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been, and is viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community", and I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
(503) 483-5689 View (503) 483-5689
Soroush Mohandessi
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available for new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available for new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
(971) 715-2826 View (971) 715-2826
Photo of Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97208  (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
(503) 850-9222 View (503) 850-9222
Photo of Matthew Kristofor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Matthew Kristofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
(503) 664-9618 View (503) 664-9618
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
(971) 306-4325 x2 View (971) 306-4325 x2
Photo of Anna Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Anna Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
(503) 461-9883 View (503) 461-9883
Photo of Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
(971) 252-7298 View (971) 252-7298
Photo of MindRx Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
MindRx Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
An ideal client is anyone looking for help or in need of help to manage their mental health. These clients often want a life they can be proud of, they want to be there for their families in the best possible way, they want to reach goals, go through life without extreme fears and anxieties. Sometimes we are unaware of our own need for mental health treatment when life gets hectic. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood and personality disorders, etc, can be hindering an individual from reaching their full potential if left untreated.
An ideal client is anyone looking for help or in need of help to manage their mental health. These clients often want a life they can be proud of, they want to be there for their families in the best possible way, they want to reach goals, go through life without extreme fears and anxieties. Sometimes we are unaware of our own need for mental health treatment when life gets hectic. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood and personality disorders, etc, can be hindering an individual from reaching their full potential if left untreated.
(971) 306-5813 View (971) 306-5813
Photo of John Robert Kratzer, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
John Robert Kratzer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Are you in the middle of a life transition? Are you looking for ways to open up your heart and soul so you can have more purpose and meaning in your life? Would you like help in building skills to be more present and peaceful in your day to day life? Would you like to experience healing as part of a larger community? Do you want to put your psychological concerns and symptoms in a broader context? I would like to help you discover your souls place in the world so you can live a life that accords to your values, is purposeful and meaningful and helps to integrate all of this with your childhood experiences.
Are you in the middle of a life transition? Are you looking for ways to open up your heart and soul so you can have more purpose and meaning in your life? Would you like help in building skills to be more present and peaceful in your day to day life? Would you like to experience healing as part of a larger community? Do you want to put your psychological concerns and symptoms in a broader context? I would like to help you discover your souls place in the world so you can live a life that accords to your values, is purposeful and meaningful and helps to integrate all of this with your childhood experiences.
(971) 290-4744 View (971) 290-4744
Photo of Robert Hernandez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Robert Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
When treating patients, I consider the whole person, not just symptoms. I take into account other underlying medical conditions, medications, and physiological changes that may impact the effectiveness of a planned treatment. I consider these factors to determine your best treatment path. I have a developmental orientation toward understanding human behavior. I recognize that everyone is unique; and therefore, I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your needs. I also appreciate a collaborative approach, working with other providers to help facilitate the best treatment outcomes.
When treating patients, I consider the whole person, not just symptoms. I take into account other underlying medical conditions, medications, and physiological changes that may impact the effectiveness of a planned treatment. I consider these factors to determine your best treatment path. I have a developmental orientation toward understanding human behavior. I recognize that everyone is unique; and therefore, I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your needs. I also appreciate a collaborative approach, working with other providers to help facilitate the best treatment outcomes.
(503) 563-2731 View (503) 563-2731
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 Melanie Ramsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Melanie Ramsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(971) 232-3233 View (971) 232-3233
Photo of Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD, SAP, MRO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services treats a wide variety of chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders and mental health symptoms. Call for your intake appointment today. We are conveniently located close in SE Portland at 12th & Salmon. Services offered: Psychiatric Services and Medication Management.
Bridgetown Recovery & Mental Health Services treats a wide variety of chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders and mental health symptoms. Call for your intake appointment today. We are conveniently located close in SE Portland at 12th & Salmon. Services offered: Psychiatric Services and Medication Management.
(503) 573-8388 View (503) 573-8388
Photo of Lindsay Marshall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lindsay Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Living with ADHD often means dealing with a mind that's constantly buzzing with thoughts, ideas, and distractions. This can turn even simple tasks into formidable challenges, affecting your focus, organization, and overall daily functioning. ADHD isn't just about inattention or hyperactivity; it impacts your entire life, from work and relationships to self-esteem and mental health. Despite these challenges, ADHD can be managed effectively, allowing you to harness your unique strengths and thrive in various aspects of your life
Living with ADHD often means dealing with a mind that's constantly buzzing with thoughts, ideas, and distractions. This can turn even simple tasks into formidable challenges, affecting your focus, organization, and overall daily functioning. ADHD isn't just about inattention or hyperactivity; it impacts your entire life, from work and relationships to self-esteem and mental health. Despite these challenges, ADHD can be managed effectively, allowing you to harness your unique strengths and thrive in various aspects of your life
(503) 755-8913 View (503) 755-8913
Photo of Jarusha Kutz, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Jarusha Kutz
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I specialize in evaluation and treatment of adult ADHD. I treat patients with psychotherapy that is tailored to the way people with ADHD experience the world. The goal is to optimize your effectiveness in all aspects of your life, while decreasing emotional stress.
I specialize in evaluation and treatment of adult ADHD. I treat patients with psychotherapy that is tailored to the way people with ADHD experience the world. The goal is to optimize your effectiveness in all aspects of your life, while decreasing emotional stress.
(971) 544-8220 View (971) 544-8220
Photo of Mohamed Bah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Mohamed Bah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
(503) 386-0402 View (503) 386-0402
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 Mary E Theodore, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Mary E Theodore, MD, MPH
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
(646) 593-2134 View (646) 593-2134
Photo of Scot Maclean, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Scot Maclean
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Hello, I offer psychotherapy and medication management for adults in Oregon. Presently, I am offering both telemedicine visits and in person visits. My preferred approach to working with you is to get a good sense of who you are, how difficulties started, and how you can find solutions for yourself. When I prescribe medication we will talk about the options in detail and then help you decide what makes most sense.
Hello, I offer psychotherapy and medication management for adults in Oregon. Presently, I am offering both telemedicine visits and in person visits. My preferred approach to working with you is to get a good sense of who you are, how difficulties started, and how you can find solutions for yourself. When I prescribe medication we will talk about the options in detail and then help you decide what makes most sense.
(503) 967-2938 View (503) 967-2938

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.