Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Sheena Munson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sheena Munson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
(503) 217-6104 View (503) 217-6104
Photo of Susan Mbugua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Susan Mbugua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Welcome to Imani Mental Health and Wellness. My name is Susan Mbugua, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the importance of personalized mental health treatment that addresses the biological, emotional, environmental, and spiritual aspects of mental health and wellness. My treatment approach is to use a combination of medications, therapy, and education to interrupt acute episodes of illness and to break the cycle of recurrence with a holistic approach that includes medications, supportive therapy, guidance on diet, exercise and other lifestyle choices.
Welcome to Imani Mental Health and Wellness. My name is Susan Mbugua, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the importance of personalized mental health treatment that addresses the biological, emotional, environmental, and spiritual aspects of mental health and wellness. My treatment approach is to use a combination of medications, therapy, and education to interrupt acute episodes of illness and to break the cycle of recurrence with a holistic approach that includes medications, supportive therapy, guidance on diet, exercise and other lifestyle choices.
(503) 300-4113 View (503) 300-4113
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 Jermiah Floyd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jermiah Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
(503) 974-3427 View (503) 974-3427
Photo of Sandra Jane Krussel, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Sandra Jane Krussel
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a psychoanalytic psychotherapist offering help to those struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma or relational issues. I find I can help patients by identifying some of the causes of their suffering. We can then work on these issues through therapy, use of medication if necessary, as well as by learning the resources the patient has within and by learning how they can best get support.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a psychoanalytic psychotherapist offering help to those struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma or relational issues. I find I can help patients by identifying some of the causes of their suffering. We can then work on these issues through therapy, use of medication if necessary, as well as by learning the resources the patient has within and by learning how they can best get support.
(971) 340-4185 View (971) 340-4185
Photo of Tiffany McClean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Tiffany McClean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
I am board certified in psychiatry and a proud therapist with the American Alpine Association's Climbing Grief Fund and the American Avalanche Association Resilience Project. I earned a B.S. in biology from Virginia Tech and a masters in counseling at George Washington University. I worked as an LPC in eating disorders, addictions, and general psychiatry for 7 years before completing my Doctor of Nursing Practice. My doctoral project focused on cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders and the relationship between exercise, anxiety/depression, and cardiovascular health. I am also a former paramedic.
I am board certified in psychiatry and a proud therapist with the American Alpine Association's Climbing Grief Fund and the American Avalanche Association Resilience Project. I earned a B.S. in biology from Virginia Tech and a masters in counseling at George Washington University. I worked as an LPC in eating disorders, addictions, and general psychiatry for 7 years before completing my Doctor of Nursing Practice. My doctoral project focused on cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders and the relationship between exercise, anxiety/depression, and cardiovascular health. I am also a former paramedic.
(503) 406-4268 View (503) 406-4268
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 Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
(503) 386-0987 View (503) 386-0987
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 Liz Farrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Liz Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
(503) 832-6998 View (503) 832-6998
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
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 Robert Geistwhite, MD, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Robert Geistwhite, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
(503) 828-9929 View (503) 828-9929
Photo of Steven Knott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Steven Knott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from college with recognition for outstanding scholastic performance in the major of nursing at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. I spent the next 7 years working in mental health with all different populations and facilities within Las Vegas, then graduated from top-ranked Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in the United States through Vanderbilt University. I was a recipient of the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Scholarship fund and was invited to the Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from college with recognition for outstanding scholastic performance in the major of nursing at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. I spent the next 7 years working in mental health with all different populations and facilities within Las Vegas, then graduated from top-ranked Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in the United States through Vanderbilt University. I was a recipient of the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Scholarship fund and was invited to the Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
(971) 545-8153 View (971) 545-8153
Photo of Carmen Kosicek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Carmen Kosicek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 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
(503) 461-1551 View (503) 461-1551
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 Farah Raqib, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Farah Raqib
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
(503) 445-8228 View (503) 445-8228
Photo of Dr. Lana Weber, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Dr. Lana Weber
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates biologic, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan.
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates biologic, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan.
(971) 247-3289 View (971) 247-3289
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 Lillian Nagi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lillian Nagi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
(503) 506-7946 View (503) 506-7946

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
67% 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.