Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
(971) 286-5038 View (971) 286-5038
Photo of Brooks Oglesby-Junk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Brooks Oglesby-Junk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
(503) 751-3453 View (503) 751-3453
Photo of Nicole Ervin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Nicole Ervin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
(206) 312-4314 View (206) 312-4314
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 Anne Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Anne Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
(503) 928-6402 View (503) 928-6402
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(458) 217-8603 View (458) 217-8603
Photo of Lauren Kaplan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Lauren Kaplan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that healing occurs in the context of supportive relationships with self, with other people, and with aspects of the natural world beyond people. My passion is collaborative exploration of these core relationships to help empower youth in creating their own path toward increasing wellness. It takes great strength to ask for help and it can be challenging to find someone who feels safe enough to be vulnerable with. Providing you or your child with a safe, supportive, affirming space to go beyond symptom management and explore the root causes of your challenging experiences is an honor.
I believe that healing occurs in the context of supportive relationships with self, with other people, and with aspects of the natural world beyond people. My passion is collaborative exploration of these core relationships to help empower youth in creating their own path toward increasing wellness. It takes great strength to ask for help and it can be challenging to find someone who feels safe enough to be vulnerable with. Providing you or your child with a safe, supportive, affirming space to go beyond symptom management and explore the root causes of your challenging experiences is an honor.
(503) 994-1387 View (503) 994-1387
Photo of Healthcore Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Healthcore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
(971) 274-5563 View (971) 274-5563
Photo of Scot Maclean, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Scot Maclean
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Hello, I offer psychotherapy and medication management for adults in Oregon. Presently, I am offering both telemedicine visits and in person visits. My preferred approach to working with you is to get a good sense of who you are, how difficulties started, and how you can find solutions for yourself. When I prescribe medication we will talk about the options in detail and then help you decide what makes most sense.
Hello, I offer psychotherapy and medication management for adults in Oregon. Presently, I am offering both telemedicine visits and in person visits. My preferred approach to working with you is to get a good sense of who you are, how difficulties started, and how you can find solutions for yourself. When I prescribe medication we will talk about the options in detail and then help you decide what makes most sense.
(503) 967-2938 View (503) 967-2938
Photo of private practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
private practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
(503) 738-1719 View (503) 738-1719
Photo of Walker B. Dixon MD, Summit Wellness center, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Walker B. Dixon MD, Summit Wellness center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Bryan Dixon has over 20 years experience treating patients in the field of psychiatry in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Dixon provides a complete treatment experience with psychiatric diagnostic assessment, medication evaluation and management, and collaboration with or referral to new or established providers and therapists for continuation of care when indicated. With over a decade of experience treating opioid dependence with Suboxone and Subutex , this treatment is available for maintenance including the application of unique and effective ways to lower doses and discontinue this medication.
Dr. Bryan Dixon has over 20 years experience treating patients in the field of psychiatry in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Dixon provides a complete treatment experience with psychiatric diagnostic assessment, medication evaluation and management, and collaboration with or referral to new or established providers and therapists for continuation of care when indicated. With over a decade of experience treating opioid dependence with Suboxone and Subutex , this treatment is available for maintenance including the application of unique and effective ways to lower doses and discontinue this medication.
(503) 483-0871 View (503) 483-0871
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 Sheena Munson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sheena Munson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
(503) 217-6104 View (503) 217-6104
Photo of Kristen Fernandez-Kong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Kristen Fernandez-Kong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
(503) 744-6625 x9605 View (503) 744-6625 x9605
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
Photo of Quimson Behavioral Health: Dr Pia Quimson-Guevarra, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Quimson Behavioral Health: Dr Pia Quimson-Guevarra
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to get better? I am a board-certified psychiatrist (medical doctor) who partners with patients using a personalized treatment approach which can include medications, education, and talk therapy. While I treat a variety of mental health conditions, I specialize in helping those with anxiety and depression to get to a better place. I also help others explore the impact of society, culture, and relationships on their mental health. I am a BIPOC/AAPI/Asian provider and identify as Filipina-American.
Are you ready to get better? I am a board-certified psychiatrist (medical doctor) who partners with patients using a personalized treatment approach which can include medications, education, and talk therapy. While I treat a variety of mental health conditions, I specialize in helping those with anxiety and depression to get to a better place. I also help others explore the impact of society, culture, and relationships on their mental health. I am a BIPOC/AAPI/Asian provider and identify as Filipina-American.
(971) 307-9602 View (971) 307-9602
Photo of Matthew Kristofor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Matthew Kristofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is an individual actively seeking assistance for their mental health challenges and displaying a genuine motivation to instigate positive transformations in their life. These individuals may grapple with a diverse range of issues, encompassing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or stress-related conditions.
(503) 664-9618 View (503) 664-9618
Photo of Dr. Kelly C. Aldinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Kelly C. Aldinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
(971) 205-1636 View (971) 205-1636
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 Charisa King, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Charisa King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to individuals navigating the complexities of mental health. With expertise spanning over 13 years in the field, I specialize in addressing challenges related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and bipolar disorder.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to individuals navigating the complexities of mental health. With expertise spanning over 13 years in the field, I specialize in addressing challenges related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and bipolar disorder.
(971) 265-6282 View (971) 265-6282

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
67% 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.