Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Tim Hanson, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Tim Hanson
Psychiatrist, MA, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
I am a general psychiatrist who treats adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and the effects of childhood or adult trauma via weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy and, if needed, medication management. In therapy we will seek to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can come to know and understand yourself more fully through exploration of your current experience, memories, dreams, and more. In my experience, this understanding can provide healing and a way forward.
(503) 966-2525 View (503) 966-2525
Photo of Kathryn Zerbe, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Kathryn Zerbe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
(971) 255-0043 View (971) 255-0043
Photo of Nikki Gaines, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
(971) 298-8567 View (971) 298-8567
Photo of Solid Foundation Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
At Solid Foundation Psychiatry, our ideal clients are individuals navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, seeking support to address various challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychosis. These individuals arrive seeking relief from the overwhelming weight of their conditions, each person carrying a unique set of issues, needs, and aspirations. Depression often manifests as an unrelenting cloud overshadowing daily life. Our ideal clients with depression yearn for a sense of vitality and emotional equilibrium. They desire to rediscover the joy in simple moments.
At Solid Foundation Psychiatry, our ideal clients are individuals navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, seeking support to address various challenges like depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychosis. These individuals arrive seeking relief from the overwhelming weight of their conditions, each person carrying a unique set of issues, needs, and aspirations. Depression often manifests as an unrelenting cloud overshadowing daily life. Our ideal clients with depression yearn for a sense of vitality and emotional equilibrium. They desire to rediscover the joy in simple moments.
(619) 762-3487 View (619) 762-3487
Photo of MindRx Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
MindRx Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
An ideal client is anyone looking for help or in need of help to manage their mental health. These clients often want a life they can be proud of, they want to be there for their families in the best possible way, they want to reach goals, go through life without extreme fears and anxieties. Sometimes we are unaware of our own need for mental health treatment when life gets hectic. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood and personality disorders, etc, can be hindering an individual from reaching their full potential if left untreated.
An ideal client is anyone looking for help or in need of help to manage their mental health. These clients often want a life they can be proud of, they want to be there for their families in the best possible way, they want to reach goals, go through life without extreme fears and anxieties. Sometimes we are unaware of our own need for mental health treatment when life gets hectic. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood and personality disorders, etc, can be hindering an individual from reaching their full potential if left untreated.
(971) 306-5813 View (971) 306-5813
Photo of Vicki Grossman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Vicki Grossman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MS, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Wholeness Care for Body, Mind and Spirit for Depression, Anxiety, Mood Changes, ADHD, Grief, and Weight Management. PhD, Board Certified Licensed Psychiatric Provider, Oregon and Colorado. My PhD, is based on Caring Science Psychology with Board Certification as a Licensed Psychiatric Practitioner (PMHNP) in Colorado and Oregon. Over 25 years working in numerous areas of Healthcare including Psychiatry, Critical Care, Emergency and Trauma medicine, this provides me with the important connections in Medical Care and Mental Health Care. PhD with a focus in Caring Psychology, Holistic Psychiatric Care and Evidence Based Medicine.
Wholeness Care for Body, Mind and Spirit for Depression, Anxiety, Mood Changes, ADHD, Grief, and Weight Management. PhD, Board Certified Licensed Psychiatric Provider, Oregon and Colorado. My PhD, is based on Caring Science Psychology with Board Certification as a Licensed Psychiatric Practitioner (PMHNP) in Colorado and Oregon. Over 25 years working in numerous areas of Healthcare including Psychiatry, Critical Care, Emergency and Trauma medicine, this provides me with the important connections in Medical Care and Mental Health Care. PhD with a focus in Caring Psychology, Holistic Psychiatric Care and Evidence Based Medicine.
(303) 586-7754 View (303) 586-7754
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 Thomas A Veeder, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Thomas A Veeder
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist focusing on providing psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychiatric consultation services. I am comfortable treating clients with a wide range of emotional or psychiatric difficulties including acute crisis, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and/or life transition issues. In addition to having a small private practice, I am on faculty at the Oregon Health & Sciences University, where I teach, practice, and supervise residents, focusing on inpatient and outpatient management of a wide array of psychiatric conditions.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist focusing on providing psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychiatric consultation services. I am comfortable treating clients with a wide range of emotional or psychiatric difficulties including acute crisis, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and/or life transition issues. In addition to having a small private practice, I am on faculty at the Oregon Health & Sciences University, where I teach, practice, and supervise residents, focusing on inpatient and outpatient management of a wide array of psychiatric conditions.
(503) 893-8612 View (503) 893-8612
Photo of Willamette Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Willamette Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(503) 444-8729 View (503) 444-8729
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 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 Doris Okoli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Doris Okoli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
I am Doris Okoli DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health provider who sees patients from age 10-90 years. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life. I graduated from Brandman University with a Doctorate in Nursing, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science with dual degrees in Masters in Public Health and Masters in Nursing.
I am Doris Okoli DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health provider who sees patients from age 10-90 years. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life. I graduated from Brandman University with a Doctorate in Nursing, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science with dual degrees in Masters in Public Health and Masters in Nursing.
(503) 647-6297 View (503) 647-6297
Photo of Donna D Templeton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Donna D Templeton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
(971) 257-1188 View (971) 257-1188
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 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 Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
(458) 225-5152 View (458) 225-5152
Photo of Tara O'Connor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Tara O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you.
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you.
(503) 221-5778 View (503) 221-5778
Photo of Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
(971) 606-4912 x1 View (971) 606-4912 x1
Photo of SOL Care Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
SOL Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(503) 843-8708 View (503) 843-8708

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.