Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Matthew Kristofor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Matthew Kristofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
(503) 664-9618 View (503) 664-9618
Photo of Farah Raqib, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Farah Raqib
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
Investing in one's well-being, healing and personal growth is a journey I have the privilege to support in my career. I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who has a passion for using therapy and medications as tools for empowerment and learning. To learn more about my practice, please visit website.
(503) 445-8228 View (503) 445-8228
Photo of Davonna (Dee) Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
(971) 251-1623 View (971) 251-1623
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 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 Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
(503) 386-0987 View (503) 386-0987
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 Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(971) 606-5344 View (971) 606-5344
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 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 Bradley Williamson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Bradley Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
(971) 299-7273 View (971) 299-7273
Photo of Jeffery Wise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jeffery Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Appointment https:provider.kareo.com/jeffery-wise Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too!
Appointment https:provider.kareo.com/jeffery-wise Are you feeling like you need a little extra help right now or maybe some clarity around why you might be feeling the way you do? As a guide, teacher, trainer, mentor, and coach, I empower you to identify your strengths and to turn your struggle into triumph.  Whether focusing on self esteem, stress management, sensitivities, life direction, purpose, or relationship - together we shift consciousness into a more awakened, empowered, alive and aware space; our brain and body chemistry might need some help too!
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Photo of Sarah Notton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sarah Notton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
I am here to assist you on your journey to live a life according to your values. My approach to treating common mental health challenges integrates medication management with skills, healthy lifestyle practices, and social frameworks that support your ability to thrive and engage in the world around you. Expect to collaborate on non-pharmaceutical interventions and activity plans while also working to find the lowest effective dose of medication(s) to help you function optimally.
(503) 470-2470 x1 View (503) 470-2470 x1
Photo of Brittnai Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Brittnai and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Anger Management, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics. Maternal Mental Health, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Brittnai and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Oregon. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Anger Management, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics. Maternal Mental Health, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(971) 257-5046 View (971) 257-5046
Photo of Teryl Clendenin PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Teryl Clendenin PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Practice accepting new patients. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to provide a wide array of treatment opportunities for adults. I prescribe psychiatric medications, as well as provide counseling and therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. I firmly believe we can all benefit from expanding our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. My practice centers on working collaboratively with you; assisting, guiding and joining you on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness.
Practice accepting new patients. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to provide a wide array of treatment opportunities for adults. I prescribe psychiatric medications, as well as provide counseling and therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. I firmly believe we can all benefit from expanding our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. My practice centers on working collaboratively with you; assisting, guiding and joining you on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness.
(503) 743-6874 View (503) 743-6874
Photo of elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
(971) 286-5038 View (971) 286-5038
Photo of Angela Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Angela Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I can help you move beyond your trauma, anxiety, or depression. I believe you have the capacity to get better. I’d love to be your guide in getting there! My style is candid, thoughtful and compassionate. With the right information, I know my clients can make the best care decisions for themselves. Though medications are a piece of my toolkit, I also incorporate solutions-focused therapy, nutrition considerations, and overall wellness support. My hope is to get you feeling well.
I can help you move beyond your trauma, anxiety, or depression. I believe you have the capacity to get better. I’d love to be your guide in getting there! My style is candid, thoughtful and compassionate. With the right information, I know my clients can make the best care decisions for themselves. Though medications are a piece of my toolkit, I also incorporate solutions-focused therapy, nutrition considerations, and overall wellness support. My hope is to get you feeling well.
(503) 755-9574 View (503) 755-9574
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 Lillian Nagi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lillian Nagi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
(503) 506-7946 View (503) 506-7946
Photo of Heike Sommer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Heike Sommer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
(503) 334-0750 View (503) 334-0750

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.