Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Michelle Dahl, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michelle Dahl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing issues with depression/mood, anxiety or other psychological issues, age 18-65 and looking for psychiatric medication management then contact me. I approach treatment in a collaborative way. I find the best outcomes when clients are fully engaged in their treatment. While medications can be a very helpful it will not be a fix all. Often medication should be accompanied by therapy and learning additional skills. While I do not do therapy only I can offer some supportive therapy, but this is not meant to replace an individual therapist if needed.
If you are experiencing issues with depression/mood, anxiety or other psychological issues, age 18-65 and looking for psychiatric medication management then contact me. I approach treatment in a collaborative way. I find the best outcomes when clients are fully engaged in their treatment. While medications can be a very helpful it will not be a fix all. Often medication should be accompanied by therapy and learning additional skills. While I do not do therapy only I can offer some supportive therapy, but this is not meant to replace an individual therapist if needed.
(503) 400-3652 View (503) 400-3652
Photo of Stefan Bulatovic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Stefan Bulatovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Our therapeutic alliance is the very foundation of successful outcomes. By taking the time to listen to and understand the client, I explore various factors that could be contributing to the clinical presentation, and in turn, aim to develop a mutually agreeable, practical, and effective treatment plan.
Our therapeutic alliance is the very foundation of successful outcomes. By taking the time to listen to and understand the client, I explore various factors that could be contributing to the clinical presentation, and in turn, aim to develop a mutually agreeable, practical, and effective treatment plan.
(503) 461-4039 View (503) 461-4039
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 Kelli L Holloway, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Kelli L Holloway
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
(971) 339-3104 View (971) 339-3104
Photo of Megan M Lewis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Megan M Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Now accepting new patients. Updated 2/7/24. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. I see people across the lifespan.
Now accepting new patients. Updated 2/7/24. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. I see people across the lifespan.
(458) 216-5974 View (458) 216-5974
Photo of Laurence Eckman Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Laurence Eckman Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I work with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, marriage & couples counseling, anger problems, unresolved trauma, & PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who may be experiencing communication and relationship issues, daily life stressors, parenting difficulties or life transitions. I am dually licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and psychotherapist (LCSW). Having two different licenses affords me the unique perspective of seeing mental health from the physiological and psychological viewpoints. I offer mental health medication management, psychotherapy, counseling, coaching or a combination of these. Sometimes there is great value in having one practitioner to address both the medical and mental health concerns.
I work with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, marriage & couples counseling, anger problems, unresolved trauma, & PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who may be experiencing communication and relationship issues, daily life stressors, parenting difficulties or life transitions. I am dually licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and psychotherapist (LCSW). Having two different licenses affords me the unique perspective of seeing mental health from the physiological and psychological viewpoints. I offer mental health medication management, psychotherapy, counseling, coaching or a combination of these. Sometimes there is great value in having one practitioner to address both the medical and mental health concerns.
(503) 446-1199 View (503) 446-1199
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 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 Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Weekend and Week Nights available. Life is Busy!I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Weekend and Week Nights available. Life is Busy!I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
(503) 850-2341 View (503) 850-2341
Photo of Morgan Huls, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Morgan Huls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
(503) 809-5622 View (503) 809-5622
Photo of Shinichi Daimyo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Shinichi Daimyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
(971) 299-7048 View (971) 299-7048
Photo of Kristen Fernandez-Kong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristen Fernandez-Kong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
(503) 744-6625 x9605 View (503) 744-6625 x9605
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(971) 260-4159 View (971) 260-4159
Photo of Nate Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nate Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
(503) 962-0493 x2 View (503) 962-0493 x2
Photo of Yoonhui Choe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Yoonhui Choe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Yoonhui Choe, PMHNP-BC brings tons of experience to her patients. Couple that with an ability to easily empathize with her clients, she has an amazing ability to help those in need with their stress, anxiety, and depression.
Yoonhui Choe, PMHNP-BC brings tons of experience to her patients. Couple that with an ability to easily empathize with her clients, she has an amazing ability to help those in need with their stress, anxiety, and depression.
(503) 755-8602 View (503) 755-8602
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 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 Melanie Ramsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Melanie Ramsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(971) 232-3233 View (971) 232-3233
Photo of Andrna' Christopher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Andrna' Christopher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Our office is currently accepting new clients in Oregon for online therapy. We specialize in anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. If you're experiencing sadness, loss of interest, disconnection, worry, low self-esteem, or other mental health symptoms, we can assist. Through compassionate, wholesome, and quality care, we can help you achieve lasting relief from mental health concerns. We are dedicated to providing patient- and family-centered care. We are also dedicated to providing individualized care, as every person has a unique need.
Our office is currently accepting new clients in Oregon for online therapy. We specialize in anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. If you're experiencing sadness, loss of interest, disconnection, worry, low self-esteem, or other mental health symptoms, we can assist. Through compassionate, wholesome, and quality care, we can help you achieve lasting relief from mental health concerns. We are dedicated to providing patient- and family-centered care. We are also dedicated to providing individualized care, as every person has a unique need.
(206) 488-0739 View (206) 488-0739
Photo of Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C, Physician Assistant in Portland, OR
Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
(971) 257-1357 View (971) 257-1357

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.