Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Edema Alfred Obaseki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
My ideal clients are those struggling with mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Weight issues or trauma, who feel overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings and seek tools to manage emotions and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and leading a more balanced, meaningful life. As a mental health provider, I can offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment, where they can feel heard and understood, and combine medication with supportive therapy to help them reclaim their lives.
My ideal clients are those struggling with mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Weight issues or trauma, who feel overwhelmed or stuck in unhelpful patterns. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings and seek tools to manage emotions and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and leading a more balanced, meaningful life. As a mental health provider, I can offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment, where they can feel heard and understood, and combine medication with supportive therapy to help them reclaim their lives.
My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.
My specialty is providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and evidence based medication management. I believe in an integrative care model encouraging mental, physical, and social wellness. In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brief supportive therapy and solution focused therapy. I opened my private practice in order to provide caring, individually focused care that I believe each patient deserves. I believe that a strong and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship is key to providing the best care possible.
Solidarity Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121
Welcome! Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel self-doubt, guilt, or stuck in the past? Do you lack the focus and motivation required to meet your goals in school or work? Dr. Renia Smith provides online and in-person evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Smith is an expert mental health provider who works with children, adolescents, and adults.
Welcome! Do you live in fear or worry about your future? Do you feel self-doubt, guilt, or stuck in the past? Do you lack the focus and motivation required to meet your goals in school or work? Dr. Renia Smith provides online and in-person evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Smith is an expert mental health provider who works with children, adolescents, and adults.
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
I am a board certified psychiatrist (MD) specializing in psychotherapy. I treat adults with psychotherapy and additional medication management services, only if needed. (I am not accepting any medication-only patients.) I provide short and long-term psychotherapy, the frequency and length of which will depend on your needs and goals. I treat depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, PTSD, relationship issues, career issues, family issues, grief and life transitions, and low self-esteem.
I am a board certified psychiatrist (MD) specializing in psychotherapy. I treat adults with psychotherapy and additional medication management services, only if needed. (I am not accepting any medication-only patients.) I provide short and long-term psychotherapy, the frequency and length of which will depend on your needs and goals. I treat depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, PTSD, relationship issues, career issues, family issues, grief and life transitions, and low self-esteem.
Tamra Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
Not accepting new clients
Each person has their own unique journey and story to how they’ve gotten to their present day. It is through the telling of your story, that I can best learn about your strengths, your values, and what you are currently struggling with. I believe you deserve a provider that takes the time to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to develop a plan to help you start feeling better. I want to work with you to find all the ways we can make positive changes to guide your healing journey. I approach my work with a compassionate, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed lens.
Each person has their own unique journey and story to how they’ve gotten to their present day. It is through the telling of your story, that I can best learn about your strengths, your values, and what you are currently struggling with. I believe you deserve a provider that takes the time to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to develop a plan to help you start feeling better. I want to work with you to find all the ways we can make positive changes to guide your healing journey. I approach my work with a compassionate, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed lens.
Geoffrey Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
I’m not sure I have an “ideal” patient. Most of my career has been spent treating anyone who came to the hospital or was assigned to my care. If I reflect on some patient success stories, each case was collaborative, utilizing evidence-based medicine with patients that had a high degree of motivation to get better, either utilizing medication or therapy and to maintain their recovery through self-care.
I’m not sure I have an “ideal” patient. Most of my career has been spent treating anyone who came to the hospital or was assigned to my care. If I reflect on some patient success stories, each case was collaborative, utilizing evidence-based medicine with patients that had a high degree of motivation to get better, either utilizing medication or therapy and to maintain their recovery through self-care.
Travis Damico | TMS Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
Our anxiety about the state of the world is a normal response to the abnormal stressors facing so many of us. The collective concerns that we all face coupled with our own individual worries can make life feel overwhelming. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2007 and my private practice is focused on looking within. Working with individuals to focus and heal the one person we can control: ourselves. I am a strong proponent of meditation and medication. My approach is to align my work according to YOUR values.
Our anxiety about the state of the world is a normal response to the abnormal stressors facing so many of us. The collective concerns that we all face coupled with our own individual worries can make life feel overwhelming. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2007 and my private practice is focused on looking within. Working with individuals to focus and heal the one person we can control: ourselves. I am a strong proponent of meditation and medication. My approach is to align my work according to YOUR values.
Arsalan Hamid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Introducing Arsalan, a compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a license to practice in Washington. Arsalan's primary goal is to collaborate with individuals, supporting them on their personal journey towards mental well-being. Recognizing the inherent beauty of the human mind, Arsalan approaches care with gentleness and a holistic perspective. Together, you and Arsalan will create treatment goals and develop personalized pathways tailored to your specific needs.
Introducing Arsalan, a compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a license to practice in Washington. Arsalan's primary goal is to collaborate with individuals, supporting them on their personal journey towards mental well-being. Recognizing the inherent beauty of the human mind, Arsalan approaches care with gentleness and a holistic perspective. Together, you and Arsalan will create treatment goals and develop personalized pathways tailored to your specific needs.
Pw Psych NP Services Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
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Magdalene Care Psychiatry and Family Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
It is essential to recognize that each client’s experience with mental health is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. An ideal client for psychiatric mental health services may present with a range of mental health concerns that require prompt and tailored intervention to deliver the most effective therapy possible. As mental health providers, we want to help each person based on what they need and assist them in reaching their goals, by using evidence-based practice. Also, creating a strong connection based on trust and understanding is important for making a safe place for healing.
It is essential to recognize that each client’s experience with mental health is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. An ideal client for psychiatric mental health services may present with a range of mental health concerns that require prompt and tailored intervention to deliver the most effective therapy possible. As mental health providers, we want to help each person based on what they need and assist them in reaching their goals, by using evidence-based practice. Also, creating a strong connection based on trust and understanding is important for making a safe place for healing.
Ashley specializes in ADHD, PTSD and C-PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety across the life span. She spent her career working in an inpatient substance abuse program and in an inpatient psychiatric hospital. In her free time, Ashley volunteers as a victim advocate for victims of domestic violence, homicide, and sexual assault. Ashley understands that each person has different physical, mental, and spiritual needs and each visit will focus on addressing these issues. Visits will include therapy, medication management, collaboration with treatment team and reviewing progress.
Ashley specializes in ADHD, PTSD and C-PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety across the life span. She spent her career working in an inpatient substance abuse program and in an inpatient psychiatric hospital. In her free time, Ashley volunteers as a victim advocate for victims of domestic violence, homicide, and sexual assault. Ashley understands that each person has different physical, mental, and spiritual needs and each visit will focus on addressing these issues. Visits will include therapy, medication management, collaboration with treatment team and reviewing progress.
Annette Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I provide compassionate, holistic care with a mission to ensure my patients feel safe, heard, and valued. Together we can address your concerns and the underlying causes of distress with personalized care. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychoeducation.
I provide compassionate, holistic care with a mission to ensure my patients feel safe, heard, and valued. Together we can address your concerns and the underlying causes of distress with personalized care. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychoeducation.
Michelle Hardenbrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Unfortunately I am not accepting new clients at this time. I have more than 25 years of experience working every level of psychiatric treatment. I specializes in diagnosing and treating autism but am skilled in all childhood and adult psychiatric disorders. My goal is to help you understand how your, or your child's brain, functions and to give you the tools to improve your life. If you are struggling with day to day function due to symptoms of psychiatric illness, call me today. Psychiatric illness is treatable and recovery is possible for everybody.
Unfortunately I am not accepting new clients at this time. I have more than 25 years of experience working every level of psychiatric treatment. I specializes in diagnosing and treating autism but am skilled in all childhood and adult psychiatric disorders. My goal is to help you understand how your, or your child's brain, functions and to give you the tools to improve your life. If you are struggling with day to day function due to symptoms of psychiatric illness, call me today. Psychiatric illness is treatable and recovery is possible for everybody.
Elizabeth Vidas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I am currently accepting new clients for medication management and holistic treatment planning. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. If you have found yourself wondering if feelings of depression, anxiety, or just feeling stuck are getting in the way of connecting with loved ones, accomplishing goals, or pursuing what you want out of life, you may benefit from psychiatric help. Please note, I do not offer formal talk therapy at this time, but can provide referrals.
I am currently accepting new clients for medication management and holistic treatment planning. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. If you have found yourself wondering if feelings of depression, anxiety, or just feeling stuck are getting in the way of connecting with loved ones, accomplishing goals, or pursuing what you want out of life, you may benefit from psychiatric help. Please note, I do not offer formal talk therapy at this time, but can provide referrals.
Samantha Guijarro
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Being a nurse practitioner allows me to deliver integrative interventions on an individual basis. I provide a holistic approach to treating mental health issues using evidence-based practices by combining various psychotherapeutic interventions with psychiatric medications when appropriate. I offer psychopharmacological education and management to assess efficacy, tolerability, and monitor for possible risks. I am client-centered and interweave individual strengths into a treatment plan to promote wellness. I encourage individuals to have an active voice in their treatment.
Being a nurse practitioner allows me to deliver integrative interventions on an individual basis. I provide a holistic approach to treating mental health issues using evidence-based practices by combining various psychotherapeutic interventions with psychiatric medications when appropriate. I offer psychopharmacological education and management to assess efficacy, tolerability, and monitor for possible risks. I am client-centered and interweave individual strengths into a treatment plan to promote wellness. I encourage individuals to have an active voice in their treatment.
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
My specialty is psychiatry and psychoanalysis. My expertise is the diagnosis and treatment of emotional disorders. I help people understand the origins and find solutions to emotional feelings that have gotten in the way of a meaningful and satisfying life. I utilize a variety of techniques including psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and medication to help manage emotional distress.
My specialty is psychiatry and psychoanalysis. My expertise is the diagnosis and treatment of emotional disorders. I help people understand the origins and find solutions to emotional feelings that have gotten in the way of a meaningful and satisfying life. I utilize a variety of techniques including psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and medication to help manage emotional distress.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
64% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs 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 psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
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 psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, 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 and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.