Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(458) 217-8603 View (458) 217-8603
Photo of Jean Sterry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jean Sterry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
(971) 366-2748 View (971) 366-2748
Photo of Kristi Muncie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(503) 386-9715 View (503) 386-9715
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 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 Crabtree Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Crabtree Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
(971) 306-4257 View (971) 306-4257
Photo of Dr. Katharine Frissora, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Katharine Frissora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
MARCH 2024 - Appointments available in 1 week! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
(503) 855-6597 View (503) 855-6597
Photo of Larsen Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Larsen Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97293  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
(503) 483-8535 View (503) 483-8535
Photo of Jeffery Wise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jeffery Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Appointment https:provider.kareo.com/jeffery-wise Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too!
Appointment https:provider.kareo.com/jeffery-wise Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too!
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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 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 Paul J. McMahon, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Paul J. McMahon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am a board certified psychiatrist, providing both medication management and therapy. My therapeutic style focuses on cognitive behavioral techniques. Treatment decisions are personalized, and evidence-based, ensuring they align with your values. I am comfortable working with medically complex cases, and draw from my additional years of experience in neurology, neuroscience and clinical research. Together, we will develop a specific plan to improve your mental health.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, providing both medication management and therapy. My therapeutic style focuses on cognitive behavioral techniques. Treatment decisions are personalized, and evidence-based, ensuring they align with your values. I am comfortable working with medically complex cases, and draw from my additional years of experience in neurology, neuroscience and clinical research. Together, we will develop a specific plan to improve your mental health.
(971) 251-1167 View (971) 251-1167
Photo of Francoise Eipper, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Francoise Eipper
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
The foundation of my practice is a thoughtful, integrated treatment approach that centers around psychodynamic psychotherapy. For adolescents and adults, I offer a more intensive form of psychodynamic psychotherapy, known as psychoanalytic psychotherapy, for those interested in a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. I also work with children and their parents, and I provide psychodynamically informed play therapy for children who need help expressing, working through, and mastering difficult feelings. I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.
The foundation of my practice is a thoughtful, integrated treatment approach that centers around psychodynamic psychotherapy. For adolescents and adults, I offer a more intensive form of psychodynamic psychotherapy, known as psychoanalytic psychotherapy, for those interested in a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. I also work with children and their parents, and I provide psychodynamically informed play therapy for children who need help expressing, working through, and mastering difficult feelings. I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.
(971) 240-5015 View (971) 240-5015
Photo of Elena Logvinenko, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Elena Logvinenko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
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Photo of Neupathway , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Neupathway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
(971) 286-5055 View (971) 286-5055
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 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 Marisa Bell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
(541) 920-1081 View (541) 920-1081
Photo of Dani Maier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dani Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
(503) 461-9509 View (503) 461-9509
Photo of Karan Randhava, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Karan Randhava
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Dr. Randhava has dedicated much of his career to using psychotherapy and sometimes medication for positive impacts on recovery. He sees children, teens, and adults for all mental health issues. He is particularly skilled at interpersonal conflicts. He aims to build trust with clients to collaboratively choose the right treatment option while dedicating time to understand problems from their root.
Dr. Randhava has dedicated much of his career to using psychotherapy and sometimes medication for positive impacts on recovery. He sees children, teens, and adults for all mental health issues. He is particularly skilled at interpersonal conflicts. He aims to build trust with clients to collaboratively choose the right treatment option while dedicating time to understand problems from their root.
(503) 461-5557 View (503) 461-5557

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.