Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
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) 252-5319 View (971) 252-5319
Photo of Mary Lajoy, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Mary Lajoy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
(971) 251-4667 View (971) 251-4667
Photo of Heike Sommer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Heike Sommer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
(503) 334-0750 View (503) 334-0750
Photo of James Trott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
James Trott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, attention deficits, life transitions, or simply feel that they want to improve their mental health. My clients are looking for a mental health expert that they can collaborate with as they develop their own treatment goals, and are willing to be intentional in their pursuit of these goals. At this time, I am accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Regence, Pacific Source, Moda, Cigna, and private pay.
I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, attention deficits, life transitions, or simply feel that they want to improve their mental health. My clients are looking for a mental health expert that they can collaborate with as they develop their own treatment goals, and are willing to be intentional in their pursuit of these goals. At this time, I am accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Regence, Pacific Source, Moda, Cigna, and private pay.
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Photo of PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
(503) 300-2954 View (503) 300-2954
Photo of Michelle Schilz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michelle Schilz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
(971) 253-7516 View (971) 253-7516
Photo of Cary Shore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Cary Shore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
(503) 683-8114 View (503) 683-8114
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 Timothy Lafolette, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Timothy Lafolette
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97290  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
(971) 278-9801 View (971) 278-9801
Photo of Hope Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Hope Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Accepting NEW patients virtually. Hope is a doctorate-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout an adult's lifespan. Hope understands that clients are the experts in themselves. She collaborates with her patients to create an individual treatment plan that values the patient's preferences while she provides clinical expertise. Her style is easygoing and practical, as she tries to engage clients in a unified discussion.
Accepting NEW patients virtually. Hope is a doctorate-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout an adult's lifespan. Hope understands that clients are the experts in themselves. She collaborates with her patients to create an individual treatment plan that values the patient's preferences while she provides clinical expertise. Her style is easygoing and practical, as she tries to engage clients in a unified discussion.
(503) 966-2248 View (503) 966-2248
Photo of Brian Pollock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Brian Pollock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
(971) 247-3643 x1 View (971) 247-3643 x1
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
Photo of La Lune Integrative Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Jennifer is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with 9 years of experience treating patients in community mental health, inpatient/emergency behavioral health, and private practice.
Jennifer is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with 9 years of experience treating patients in community mental health, inpatient/emergency behavioral health, and private practice.
(971) 414-2619 View (971) 414-2619
Photo of ValueCore Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
ValueCore Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
(503) 389-1500 View (503) 389-1500
Photo of Dana Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dana Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia disorders. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia disorders. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
(971) 315-4821 View (971) 315-4821
Photo of Chaney L Reel Davis, PMHNP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Chaney L Reel Davis, PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.
My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.
(971) 232-3698 View (971) 232-3698
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 Kristen Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristen Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I use a trauma-informed approach to mental health that includes both medication management and psychotherapy. I employ a Health at Every Size philosophy that prioritizes whole person wellness above a weight-centric perspective. In my practice, the client is at the helm of choosing what issues to work on. A holistic approach is favored over one-size-fits-all formulas. As most people today are touched by mental health struggles, whether it be their own or their loved ones, we can use those experiences to learn to ground spiritually and mentally.
I use a trauma-informed approach to mental health that includes both medication management and psychotherapy. I employ a Health at Every Size philosophy that prioritizes whole person wellness above a weight-centric perspective. In my practice, the client is at the helm of choosing what issues to work on. A holistic approach is favored over one-size-fits-all formulas. As most people today are touched by mental health struggles, whether it be their own or their loved ones, we can use those experiences to learn to ground spiritually and mentally.
(503) 868-0536 View (503) 868-0536
Photo of 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 Kelly Witbeck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kelly Witbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
Accepting new clients! VISIT www.kelementalhealth.com to schedule your appointment. Kelly’s ideal patient is the one who is open minded, patient with the process, willing to be actively engaged and involved in their treatment, and understands that little things over time produce measurable changes in progress. She believes in a team approach, working together with her patients toward treatment goals, encourages patients to engage by asking questions and learning more about their path along their wellness journey.
(503) 739-9219 View (503) 739-9219

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.