Psychiatrists in Beavercreek, OR
Online booking and telehealth - Many of my clients describe feeling stuck—caught between wanting to hold it all together and quietly knowing they’re running on empty. Anxiety, depression, or the weight of old trauma can leave them exhausted, restless, or disconnected from the people they love. Some have tried treatment before but didn’t find the support they needed. What they long for is care that feels different: someone who listens, understands their whole story, and helps them find steady ground again. I believe care should feel collaborative and stigma-free.
Online booking and telehealth - Many of my clients describe feeling stuck—caught between wanting to hold it all together and quietly knowing they’re running on empty. Anxiety, depression, or the weight of old trauma can leave them exhausted, restless, or disconnected from the people they love. Some have tried treatment before but didn’t find the support they needed. What they long for is care that feels different: someone who listens, understands their whole story, and helps them find steady ground again. I believe care should feel collaborative and stigma-free.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
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.
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.
Healing Harbor Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Erin Fitzgerald and I am a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP/PMHNP). I am owner and CEO of both "Healing Harbor Psychiatry LLC", and "A Changing Tides For Wellness LLC". I am also on faculty at Chamberlin University teaching PMHNP students. I have worked in medicine since 1987, and have cared for all ages. As a PMHNP I have expertise treating multiple mental health disorders. I am proficient in utilizing the most up-to-date, evidenced-based knowledge to assess, diagnose and treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Addiction, OCD and more.
My name is Erin Fitzgerald and I am a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP/PMHNP). I am owner and CEO of both "Healing Harbor Psychiatry LLC", and "A Changing Tides For Wellness LLC". I am also on faculty at Chamberlin University teaching PMHNP students. I have worked in medicine since 1987, and have cared for all ages. As a PMHNP I have expertise treating multiple mental health disorders. I am proficient in utilizing the most up-to-date, evidenced-based knowledge to assess, diagnose and treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Addiction, OCD and more.
Neupathway (Nicole Mutnansky)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, BSN, MSN
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Imagine a clinic where patients feel genuinely seen and supported—where care is personalized, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. This clinic serves individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, including adolescence, pregnancy, and postpartum. Their goal is to partner with a provider who brings not only clinical expertise but also compassion and holistic insight. They’re seeking someone who honors each patient’s unique journey and can support them through change and healing.
Imagine a clinic where patients feel genuinely seen and supported—where care is personalized, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. This clinic serves individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, including adolescence, pregnancy, and postpartum. Their goal is to partner with a provider who brings not only clinical expertise but also compassion and holistic insight. They’re seeking someone who honors each patient’s unique journey and can support them through change and healing.
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
We have learned that patients need more than treatment, they need connection, understanding, and dignity. Our approach is collaborative, comprehensive, and grounded in cultural humility. Whether adjusting a treatment plan, facilitating therapy, offering support during a difficult moment, we believes healing begins with presence and trust. We wants every patient to know: you are becoming. It is our privilege to walk alongside clients on that journey. We recognizes that seeking support takes courage, and emphasizes that no one has to face their struggles alone. Our mission is providing compassionate, holistic, client centered care.
We have learned that patients need more than treatment, they need connection, understanding, and dignity. Our approach is collaborative, comprehensive, and grounded in cultural humility. Whether adjusting a treatment plan, facilitating therapy, offering support during a difficult moment, we believes healing begins with presence and trust. We wants every patient to know: you are becoming. It is our privilege to walk alongside clients on that journey. We recognizes that seeking support takes courage, and emphasizes that no one has to face their struggles alone. Our mission is providing compassionate, holistic, client centered care.
Amanda Rapaport is dually board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
Amanda Rapaport is dually board certified as an FNP and a PMHNP. Amanda is experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. Amanda is culturally sensitive; she has worked in healthcare in various US states and as a teacher abroad. She welcomes all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ individuals with care and respect. Amanda educates and partners with her patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. She takes a holistic approach and places the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
Many of us are disconnected from our place in the natural world and have been judged and hurt by others for how we are naturally. This can result in needs not being met and feeling as if there is something wrong with us, or that we are broken, or somehow not whole. We become anxious, depressed, and traumatized. I believe healing occurs in the context of supportive relationships with self, other people, systems, and aspects of the natural world beyond people. Collaborative and compassionate exploration of these relationships can show us where our healing needs are and how to begin creating our own path toward increasing wellness.
Many of us are disconnected from our place in the natural world and have been judged and hurt by others for how we are naturally. This can result in needs not being met and feeling as if there is something wrong with us, or that we are broken, or somehow not whole. We become anxious, depressed, and traumatized. I believe healing occurs in the context of supportive relationships with self, other people, systems, and aspects of the natural world beyond people. Collaborative and compassionate exploration of these relationships can show us where our healing needs are and how to begin creating our own path toward increasing wellness.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Have you tried several medications for your mental health and experienced no relief of symptoms? At Active Path, we are here to help your treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and OCD. Get back to you with services tailored to your specific needs. We offer Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), talk therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and medication management. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to our patients on their mental health journey. Our services are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Over the last 13 years, I have gained experience treating children, adolescents & adults in the inpatient, residential, private practice, emergency department, and community mental health settings. My approach to mental health & psychiatric services is holistic in nature. Although I offer treatment to a wide variety of mental health disorders, I specialize in psychiatric treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, major depressive disorder & generalized anxiety disorder.
Over the last 13 years, I have gained experience treating children, adolescents & adults in the inpatient, residential, private practice, emergency department, and community mental health settings. My approach to mental health & psychiatric services is holistic in nature. Although I offer treatment to a wide variety of mental health disorders, I specialize in psychiatric treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, major depressive disorder & generalized anxiety disorder.
Jacqueline Sammons is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, helping patients across Oregon navigate complex emotional and psychological challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. She provides medication management and individual therapy for children, adolescents, teens, and adults, offering support tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. Jacqueline specializes in treating depression, ADHD, and trauma-related conditions, including PTSD.
Jacqueline Sammons is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, helping patients across Oregon navigate complex emotional and psychological challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. She provides medication management and individual therapy for children, adolescents, teens, and adults, offering support tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. Jacqueline specializes in treating depression, ADHD, and trauma-related conditions, including PTSD.
Sommer Korth helps patients in Oregon navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. She works with children, teens, and adults, supporting individuals at every stage of life through individual therapy and medication management. Whether someone is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use concerns, Sommer provides a collaborative and supportive space where patients can feel understood while working toward lasting change. She has a strong commitment to helping people through complex or difficult circumstances.
Sommer Korth helps patients in Oregon navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. She works with children, teens, and adults, supporting individuals at every stage of life through individual therapy and medication management. Whether someone is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use concerns, Sommer provides a collaborative and supportive space where patients can feel understood while working toward lasting change. She has a strong commitment to helping people through complex or difficult circumstances.
I am a Psychiatric PA-C specializing in outpatient mental health treatment with an emphasis on thoughtful medication management. I focus on treatment of anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, alcohol use, and mood disorders. Whether you are new to managing your mental health, or need a new provider to maintain your current treatment, I am here to help.
I am a Psychiatric PA-C specializing in outpatient mental health treatment with an emphasis on thoughtful medication management. I focus on treatment of anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, alcohol use, and mood disorders. Whether you are new to managing your mental health, or need a new provider to maintain your current treatment, I am here to help.
I am a board‑certified Psychiatric‑Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC) with roots in teaching and direct patient care. Whether you are experiencing acute distress or managing a chronic condition, my aim is to relieve symptoms, foster resilience, and help you thrive. Your lived experience guides the process. Throughout our work together, we may integrate medication, supportive psychotherapy, and practical wellness strategies tailored to your goals and day‑to‑day challenges.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, supportive therapy, and medication management for children and adults.
I am a board‑certified Psychiatric‑Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC) with roots in teaching and direct patient care. Whether you are experiencing acute distress or managing a chronic condition, my aim is to relieve symptoms, foster resilience, and help you thrive. Your lived experience guides the process. Throughout our work together, we may integrate medication, supportive psychotherapy, and practical wellness strategies tailored to your goals and day‑to‑day challenges.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, supportive therapy, and medication management for children and adults.
Dr. Dianna Harris (New Patients Welcome)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Beaverton, OR 97005
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 3/13/26 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 1-2 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 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 3/13/26 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 1-2 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 relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
Are you searching for holistic, personalized support on your mental health journey? Are you looking for a provider who is inclusive, non-judgmental and affirming? I'm Ka'lesha, your trusted ally in achieving emotional well-being & empowerment. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across all stages of life. I believe in creating a safe & collaborative environment for my clients, utilizing evidence-based practice, a holistic approach, & supportive interventions to maximize treatment benefits and support clients on a deeper level.
Are you searching for holistic, personalized support on your mental health journey? Are you looking for a provider who is inclusive, non-judgmental and affirming? I'm Ka'lesha, your trusted ally in achieving emotional well-being & empowerment. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across all stages of life. I believe in creating a safe & collaborative environment for my clients, utilizing evidence-based practice, a holistic approach, & supportive interventions to maximize treatment benefits and support clients on a deeper level.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Salutations! Anxiety and depression have impacted so many of us in profound ways. Navigating the path of our mental health can be as challenging and difficult as traversing stormy seas. It is this journey through rough waters that when we become overwhelmed, limited by our stressors, and struggle to cope through complicated and difficult experiences, that we all need extra support. My goal is to support you in your voyage through the unknown; to provide you with some of the tools you need to pilot your own ship towards your destination; to empower you to be your own captain.
Salutations! Anxiety and depression have impacted so many of us in profound ways. Navigating the path of our mental health can be as challenging and difficult as traversing stormy seas. It is this journey through rough waters that when we become overwhelmed, limited by our stressors, and struggle to cope through complicated and difficult experiences, that we all need extra support. My goal is to support you in your voyage through the unknown; to provide you with some of the tools you need to pilot your own ship towards your destination; to empower you to be your own captain.
See more therapy options for Beavercreek
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Beavercreek, OR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Beavercreek, OR who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
| 100% | Eating Disorders |
| 100% | Child |
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | ADHD |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Beavercreek, OR see their clients
| 100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Beavercreek?
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.
