Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Robert Geistwhite, MD, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Robert Geistwhite, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
Despite being successful, many creative and talented people live with a negative inner world. Often thinking, "If I only had someone to talk to." They are stuck but reluctant to seek help. It seems shameful or overwhelming. The fact is, once we are able to connect many of my patients quickly start to feel better. I listen in a way that respects their own perspective, pace and autonomy. Together we strive to deepen our understanding of the problems, while expanding our appreciation of a unique inner life.
(503) 828-9929 View (503) 828-9929
Photo of Jermiah Floyd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jermiah Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
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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 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 Martin Cunanan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Martin Cunanan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, burnout, trauma, sleep/insomnia, alcohol/substance use, and relationship and attachment concerns.
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, burnout, trauma, sleep/insomnia, alcohol/substance use, and relationship and attachment concerns.
(503) 461-9671 View (503) 461-9671
Photo of Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C, Physician Assistant in Portland, OR
Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
(971) 257-1357 View (971) 257-1357
Photo of Michelle J Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Michelle J Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
(971) 407-5284 View (971) 407-5284
Photo of Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Black Men & Women In Training LLC MH and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
We have over 20 years of experience offering face-to-face and telehealth services to change health disparities and improve overall wellness in the lives of our clients. Patients can access mental health counseling and medication management from clinicians who look like them. We offer various therapeutic modalities and extended services through mentorship and advocacy support. (BMWIT) was established in 2022 to support closing the health disparities gap for people of color by offering mental health awareness and wellness services allowing patients/clients to grow into thriving human beings. We have also added a FNP for primary care.
(971) 606-4912 x1 View (971) 606-4912 x1
Photo of Jeanne Johnson, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Jeanne Johnson
Psychiatrist, MS, DDS, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
My goal is to partner with individuals to relieve emotional pain and suffering. We all encounter periods of emotional turmoil in our lives that may lead to feelings of isolation, grief, anxiety and depression. During these times, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find solutions to problems on our own. Along with fostering a safe environment for sharing, I provide psychoanalysis and psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy. I endeavor to empower others to find a greater sense of emotional flexibility, discover new solutions to old problems, invigorate relationships, achieve peace of mind, and experience enduring change.
My goal is to partner with individuals to relieve emotional pain and suffering. We all encounter periods of emotional turmoil in our lives that may lead to feelings of isolation, grief, anxiety and depression. During these times, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find solutions to problems on our own. Along with fostering a safe environment for sharing, I provide psychoanalysis and psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy. I endeavor to empower others to find a greater sense of emotional flexibility, discover new solutions to old problems, invigorate relationships, achieve peace of mind, and experience enduring change.
(971) 260-4183 View (971) 260-4183
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 Lynaudry Louise Vickers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lynaudry Louise Vickers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
(971) 233-3831 View (971) 233-3831
Photo of Nwamaka Emeruem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
(480) 525-6840 View (480) 525-6840
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 Michael Boas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michael Boas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
(503) 404-4557 View (503) 404-4557
Photo of Heather Hemmeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Heather Hemmeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
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 Crabtree Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Crabtree Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
I am currently accepting new clients. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have been trained in evidence based and trauma informed treatment modalities that aim to address the entire patient as a whole. We are more than just a diagnosis or a grouping of symptoms, we are individuals seeking balance and understanding of how and why we interact with our environment and in our relationships in the ways that we do. Through collaboration in a holistic and therapeutic relationship, we can work together to build a picture of what good mental health means to you.
(971) 306-4257 View (971) 306-4257
Photo of Ryan Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Ryan Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. My areas of specialization include trauma, substance abuse, addiction, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), depression, anxiety, and the unique needs of teenagers and adolescents. My commitment to providing compassionate care remains unwavering.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. My areas of specialization include trauma, substance abuse, addiction, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), depression, anxiety, and the unique needs of teenagers and adolescents. My commitment to providing compassionate care remains unwavering.
(971) 366-2585 View (971) 366-2585
Photo of Dani Maier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dani Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
(503) 461-9509 View (503) 461-9509
Photo of Thomas A Veeder, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Thomas A Veeder
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist focusing on providing psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychiatric consultation services. I am comfortable treating clients with a wide range of emotional or psychiatric difficulties including acute crisis, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and/or life transition issues. In addition to having a small private practice, I am on faculty at the Oregon Health & Sciences University, where I teach, practice, and supervise residents, focusing on inpatient and outpatient management of a wide array of psychiatric conditions.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist focusing on providing psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychiatric consultation services. I am comfortable treating clients with a wide range of emotional or psychiatric difficulties including acute crisis, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and/or life transition issues. In addition to having a small private practice, I am on faculty at the Oregon Health & Sciences University, where I teach, practice, and supervise residents, focusing on inpatient and outpatient management of a wide array of psychiatric conditions.
(503) 893-8612 View (503) 893-8612

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.