Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of John Robert Kratzer, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
John Robert Kratzer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Are you in the middle of a life transition? Are you looking for ways to open up your heart and soul so you can have more purpose and meaning in your life? Would you like help in building skills to be more present and peaceful in your day to day life? Would you like to experience healing as part of a larger community? Do you want to put your psychological concerns and symptoms in a broader context? I would like to help you discover your souls place in the world so you can live a life that accords to your values, is purposeful and meaningful and helps to integrate all of this with your childhood experiences.
Are you in the middle of a life transition? Are you looking for ways to open up your heart and soul so you can have more purpose and meaning in your life? Would you like help in building skills to be more present and peaceful in your day to day life? Would you like to experience healing as part of a larger community? Do you want to put your psychological concerns and symptoms in a broader context? I would like to help you discover your souls place in the world so you can live a life that accords to your values, is purposeful and meaningful and helps to integrate all of this with your childhood experiences.
(971) 290-4744 View (971) 290-4744
Photo of John Benson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(503) 221-8449 View (503) 221-8449
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care. In-office visits near Portland, OR available!
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care. In-office visits near Portland, OR available!
(503) 386-0877 x2 View (503) 386-0877 x2
Photo of Jonathan Murphy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jonathan Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
I am here to work with patients looking for real, genuine support. My goal is to understand and get to know every person that starts treatment. Patients that are open to having a dialogue about all aspects of life, in order to build the best understanding regarding the nature of depression, anxiety, and issues with a lack of focus.
(503) 713-6554 View (503) 713-6554
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Donna D Templeton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Donna D Templeton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
(971) 257-1188 View (971) 257-1188
Photo of Chaney L Reel Davis, PMHNP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Chaney L Reel Davis, PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.
My practice is trauma-informed, sex-positive, body neutral, anti-racist, and I am a LGBTQIA+ ally. I develop partnerships with my patients based on the principles of self-respect, equality, dignity and mutuality. We will negotiate your healthcare needs through a variety of approaches: education, communication, self-care, medication and complementary treatments. I am honored to walk alongside in your journey towards recovery, happiness and life satisfaction.
(971) 232-3698 View (971) 232-3698
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
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 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
Photo of Tara O'Connor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Tara O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
(503) 221-5778 View (503) 221-5778
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 Maya Nair, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Maya Nair
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a safe and accepting space for you to share your unique story to find stability and joy. By supporting you and deepening our understanding of you, your mind and body, and the world around you, we can find short and long term strategies to manage and overcome your symptoms and make progress on your goals. As you process and make meaning out of your life, you become better equipped to address problems in your personal life and career, change how you feel about yourself, and resolve concerns in your relationships.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a safe and accepting space for you to share your unique story to find stability and joy. By supporting you and deepening our understanding of you, your mind and body, and the world around you, we can find short and long term strategies to manage and overcome your symptoms and make progress on your goals. As you process and make meaning out of your life, you become better equipped to address problems in your personal life and career, change how you feel about yourself, and resolve concerns in your relationships.
(503) 741-8724 View (503) 741-8724
Photo of Vicki Grossman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Vicki Grossman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MS, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Wholeness Care for Body, Mind and Spirit for Depression, Anxiety, Mood Changes, ADHD, Grief, and Weight Management. PhD, Board Certified Licensed Psychiatric Provider, Oregon and Colorado. My PhD, is based on Caring Science Psychology with Board Certification as a Licensed Psychiatric Practitioner (PMHNP) in Colorado and Oregon. Over 25 years working in numerous areas of Healthcare including Psychiatry, Critical Care, Emergency and Trauma medicine, this provides me with the important connections in Medical Care and Mental Health Care. PhD with a focus in Caring Psychology, Holistic Psychiatric Care and Evidence Based Medicine.
Wholeness Care for Body, Mind and Spirit for Depression, Anxiety, Mood Changes, ADHD, Grief, and Weight Management. PhD, Board Certified Licensed Psychiatric Provider, Oregon and Colorado. My PhD, is based on Caring Science Psychology with Board Certification as a Licensed Psychiatric Practitioner (PMHNP) in Colorado and Oregon. Over 25 years working in numerous areas of Healthcare including Psychiatry, Critical Care, Emergency and Trauma medicine, this provides me with the important connections in Medical Care and Mental Health Care. PhD with a focus in Caring Psychology, Holistic Psychiatric Care and Evidence Based Medicine.
(303) 586-7754 View (303) 586-7754
Photo of ValueCore Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
ValueCore Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
(503) 389-1500 View (503) 389-1500
Photo of Jean Sterry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jean Sterry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
I collaborate with people who seek to identify and achieve their goals and improve their relationships with themselves and others to build a more connected and authentic life. I have experience supporting clients with difficult symptoms related to life transitions, mood, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and neurodiversity, as well as working with people in recovery. I work with adults and adolescents and see clients in person and via telehealth. I believe that safety, curiosity, compassion, and authenticity are the foundations of a strong and safe therapeutic relationship which is the cornerstone of all therapeutic work.
(971) 366-2748 View (971) 366-2748
Photo of Jenna Brown Albright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jenna Brown Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
My intention is to understand what is important to you in supporting your wellness. Medication can be a tool to use along with therapy and skills. Through mutual collaboration and trust, we will work to determine which medication will be helpful. I will provide education and support while we work together, being sensitive to your questions and concerns.
My intention is to understand what is important to you in supporting your wellness. Medication can be a tool to use along with therapy and skills. Through mutual collaboration and trust, we will work to determine which medication will be helpful. I will provide education and support while we work together, being sensitive to your questions and concerns.
Photo of Erik Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Erik Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Are you ready to begin (or continue) your journey to outstanding mental health? The judicious use of medications can sometimes be the key to sustained and improved mental health. If medication has helped in the past; if you feel you have exhausted other approaches; or even if you have an aversion to prescribed medications, my expertise can help. I provide clinical services (including telemedicine) to patients who have (or suspect they have) ADHD; and/or who struggle with mood, anxiety, or trauma-related issues. I also assist clients taper off medications safely, where previous attempts to do so may have proved challenging.
Are you ready to begin (or continue) your journey to outstanding mental health? The judicious use of medications can sometimes be the key to sustained and improved mental health. If medication has helped in the past; if you feel you have exhausted other approaches; or even if you have an aversion to prescribed medications, my expertise can help. I provide clinical services (including telemedicine) to patients who have (or suspect they have) ADHD; and/or who struggle with mood, anxiety, or trauma-related issues. I also assist clients taper off medications safely, where previous attempts to do so may have proved challenging.
(503) 868-2632 View (503) 868-2632
Photo of Francoise Eipper, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Francoise Eipper
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
The foundation of my practice is a thoughtful, integrated treatment approach that centers around psychodynamic psychotherapy. For adolescents and adults, I offer a more intensive form of psychodynamic psychotherapy, known as psychoanalytic psychotherapy, for those interested in a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. I also work with children and their parents, and I provide psychodynamically informed play therapy for children who need help expressing, working through, and mastering difficult feelings. I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.
The foundation of my practice is a thoughtful, integrated treatment approach that centers around psychodynamic psychotherapy. For adolescents and adults, I offer a more intensive form of psychodynamic psychotherapy, known as psychoanalytic psychotherapy, for those interested in a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. I also work with children and their parents, and I provide psychodynamically informed play therapy for children who need help expressing, working through, and mastering difficult feelings. I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.
(971) 240-5015 View (971) 240-5015
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 Meghan Farrell, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Meghan Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
My experience includes treating adolescents and adults in the inpatient, residential, private practice, emergency department, and outpatient settings. My approach to psychiatric and medication management services is holistic in nature. Although I offer treatment to a wide variety of mental health disorders, I specialize in psychiatric treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. When appropriate, I apply cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to medication management services.
My experience includes treating adolescents and adults in the inpatient, residential, private practice, emergency department, and outpatient settings. My approach to psychiatric and medication management services is holistic in nature. Although I offer treatment to a wide variety of mental health disorders, I specialize in psychiatric treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. When appropriate, I apply cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to medication management services.
(503) 738-1252 View (503) 738-1252

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
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% 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.