Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Schuyler B Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Schuyler B Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
(971) 231-2720 View (971) 231-2720
Photo of Dallas L Upchurch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dallas L Upchurch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
(254) 329-8825 View (254) 329-8825
Photo of Brooks Oglesby-Junk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Brooks Oglesby-Junk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
(503) 751-3453 View (503) 751-3453
Photo of Dario LaPoma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dario LaPoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
(503) 298-9165 View (503) 298-9165
Photo of Jarusha Kutz, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Jarusha Kutz
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I specialize in evaluation and treatment of adult ADHD. I treat patients with psychotherapy that is tailored to the way people with ADHD experience the world. The goal is to optimize your effectiveness in all aspects of your life, while decreasing emotional stress.
I specialize in evaluation and treatment of adult ADHD. I treat patients with psychotherapy that is tailored to the way people with ADHD experience the world. The goal is to optimize your effectiveness in all aspects of your life, while decreasing emotional stress.
(971) 544-8220 View (971) 544-8220
Photo of Nwamaka Emeruem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
(480) 525-6840 View (480) 525-6840
Photo of 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 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 Daniel Helfet-Hilliker, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Daniel Helfet-Hilliker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
(971) 264-2784 View (971) 264-2784
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 John Benson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(503) 221-8449 View (503) 221-8449
Photo of Jake Creviston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jake Creviston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
(971) 803-6167 View (971) 803-6167
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 Light Side Wellness Co , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Light Side Wellness Co
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
(503) 994-1898 View (503) 994-1898
Photo of Maggie Yorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
(503) 486-3438 View (503) 486-3438
Photo of Ayisha Sanda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Ayisha Sanda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
(971) 247-1627 View (971) 247-1627
Photo of Sari Matisoff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sari Matisoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Update - Emails from psychology today seem to be getting lost, please fill out the new client inquiry form at www.hmhpdx.com/new-client-inquiries-1 to ensure your communication to the office does not get missed! I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ages 18-64. I have a BA in psychology from Willamette University and Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees in nursing from OHSU. I am licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington. I see psychiatric medications as an added tool to aid in overall well-being, and enjoy working with clients on how to maximize wellness with the least amount of medication needed.
Update - Emails from psychology today seem to be getting lost, please fill out the new client inquiry form at www.hmhpdx.com/new-client-inquiries-1 to ensure your communication to the office does not get missed! I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ages 18-64. I have a BA in psychology from Willamette University and Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees in nursing from OHSU. I am licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington. I see psychiatric medications as an added tool to aid in overall well-being, and enjoy working with clients on how to maximize wellness with the least amount of medication needed.
(971) 290-5261 View (971) 290-5261
Photo of 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 Jonathan Murphy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jonathan Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
(503) 713-6554 View (503) 713-6554
Photo of Headlight / Portland, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Headlight / Portland
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
(971) 290-1964 View (971) 290-1964

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.