Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

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 Jazmyn Price, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jazmyn Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
(503) 832-5997 View (503) 832-5997
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
(971) 308-4610 View (971) 308-4610
Photo of Daniel Helfet-Hilliker, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Daniel Helfet-Hilliker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
I am a general adult psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, OR. I treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, past trauma, personal loss, identity problems, and other painful feelings that may interfere with relationships, work and self-esteem. In my practice I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy but work with patients to find a balance with medication management that works best for them.
(971) 264-2784 View (971) 264-2784
Photo of Rachel Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Rachel Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, casting a shadow over every aspect of life. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, my focus is on individuals ready to take active steps towards betterment. Leveraging my expertise in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where we collaboratively address these challenges. Through a careful and compassionate approach to medication management, we can find a path to a brighter, more balanced life, empowering you to reclaim control over your mental health and wellbeing.
(971) 265-8908 View (971) 265-8908
Photo of Andrea Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Andrea Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been, and is viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community", and I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
Hello, and welcome. I believe all individuals are complex beings that bring a mix of history, culture and beliefs into our daily lives, and this affects both our mental and physical health. Traditionally, health has been, and is viewed, as the absence of disease. However, I believe that health is a continuum and different for every person. The WHO says “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community", and I hope to help you uncover what you need to achieve this.
(503) 483-5689 View (503) 483-5689
Photo of Kara Powers, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Kara Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or problems in school or work. Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, I also incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I join with my patients to understand their suffering and together we find solutions for change.
(503) 438-4503 View (503) 438-4503
Photo of Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
(971) 252-7298 View (971) 252-7298
Photo of Schuyler B Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Schuyler B Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
(971) 231-2720 View (971) 231-2720
Photo of Njideka Domrufus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 224-7994 View (971) 224-7994
Photo of Dr. Lana Weber, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Dr. Lana Weber
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates biologic, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan.
I am board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I take an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment that incorporates biologic, psychological, social and culture components. I focus on working with adults with a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, trauma, peripartum and women's mental health issues across the lifespan.
(971) 247-3289 View (971) 247-3289
Photo of Kelly Yan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kelly Yan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I support mental wellness through medication management and behavioral health counseling. I work in partnership with you, your therapist, and other members of your care team to manage concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychosis, inattention, and neurodivergence. My treatment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practice and holistic, patient-centered care. I believe in using the gentlest interventions that will achieve your goals. I do not perform ADHD assessments, but I can provide ongoing ADHD treatment. I do not prescribe benzodiazepines long-term.
I support mental wellness through medication management and behavioral health counseling. I work in partnership with you, your therapist, and other members of your care team to manage concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychosis, inattention, and neurodivergence. My treatment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practice and holistic, patient-centered care. I believe in using the gentlest interventions that will achieve your goals. I do not perform ADHD assessments, but I can provide ongoing ADHD treatment. I do not prescribe benzodiazepines long-term.
(503) 386-0237 View (503) 386-0237
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(458) 217-8603 View (458) 217-8603
Photo of Cassandra Stell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Cassandra Stell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in OR and WA. No matter where you are on your psychiatric health, my goal is provide a therapeutic environment to help you achieve your best unique outcome. One of many benefits of becoming mentally strong is that it is one of the best ways to improve how you feel emotionally and physically. My mission is to provide psychiatric diagnosis and medication management in a comprehensive and teaching manner, paying careful attention to your psychological and individual make-up. My approach is collaborative and relational.
Accepting new clients in OR and WA. No matter where you are on your psychiatric health, my goal is provide a therapeutic environment to help you achieve your best unique outcome. One of many benefits of becoming mentally strong is that it is one of the best ways to improve how you feel emotionally and physically. My mission is to provide psychiatric diagnosis and medication management in a comprehensive and teaching manner, paying careful attention to your psychological and individual make-up. My approach is collaborative and relational.
(503) 966-0733 View (503) 966-0733
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 Kristine Simpson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristine Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
(503) 751-3901 View (503) 751-3901
Photo of Alexandra Gomez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Alexandra Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Hi, are you looking for more holistic- patient-centered care? I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with mental health issues with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental. I work hard to help my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing. We provide Telehealth visits in Oregon.
Hi, are you looking for more holistic- patient-centered care? I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with mental health issues with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental. I work hard to help my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing. We provide Telehealth visits in Oregon.
(503) 506-4575 View (503) 506-4575
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
(971) 306-4325 x2 View (971) 306-4325 x2
Photo of Ellen Barker-Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Ellen Barker-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel stuck? Seeking support for your well-being is a big step. My name is Ellen, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. My background has gifted me with unique insights and skills that allow me to connect with deeper understanding. . I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am also passionate about providing care to first responders and those who work in the medical profession.
(503) 564-7438 View (503) 564-7438
Photo of High Desert Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
High Desert Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
(541) 625-1617 View (541) 625-1617

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.