Psychiatrists in Beavercreek, OR
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
My practice is focused on the initiation and management of psychiatric medications, a supportive psychotherapeutic relationship and lifestyle interventions. I treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorders and OCD. I work with clients aged 14 years and older and really enjoy supporting teens and adults as they navigate the challenges of mental health diagnoses and treatment. I want my clients to be active participants in their mental health care and will collaborate with their treatment team to ensure optimal outcomes.
My practice is focused on the initiation and management of psychiatric medications, a supportive psychotherapeutic relationship and lifestyle interventions. I treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorders and OCD. I work with clients aged 14 years and older and really enjoy supporting teens and adults as they navigate the challenges of mental health diagnoses and treatment. I want my clients to be active participants in their mental health care and will collaborate with their treatment team to ensure optimal outcomes.
Compass Psychiatric Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Compass Psychiatric Wellness is a Portland based clinic with offices in NE Portland, West Linn and Beaverton. We work with older teens and adults dealing with a wide range of psychiatric concerns who are looking for medication management with adjunctive psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions. Our goal is to conduct a thorough psychiatric evaluation and make evidence based recommendations that align with our clients' preferences and needs.
Compass Psychiatric Wellness is a Portland based clinic with offices in NE Portland, West Linn and Beaverton. We work with older teens and adults dealing with a wide range of psychiatric concerns who are looking for medication management with adjunctive psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions. Our goal is to conduct a thorough psychiatric evaluation and make evidence based recommendations that align with our clients' preferences and needs.
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you often feel like you're battling against your own mind? Is your attention constantly drifting, making it hard to stay on track? Do friends joke about your sense of time, or do you find yourself worrying about talking too much in social settings? If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD, know that you're not alone—and there’s help available. At Synchronous Mental Health, we specialize in providing personalized care for individuals facing these challenges, helping them regain control of their mental health and lead more fulfilling lives.
Do you often feel like you're battling against your own mind? Is your attention constantly drifting, making it hard to stay on track? Do friends joke about your sense of time, or do you find yourself worrying about talking too much in social settings? If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD, know that you're not alone—and there’s help available. At Synchronous Mental Health, we specialize in providing personalized care for individuals facing these challenges, helping them regain control of their mental health and lead more fulfilling lives.
Hilary Helkenn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, , APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
We all face challenges from time to time. You don’t have to face them alone. Welcome to Verdant Path Mental Health; where compassionate care meets innovative solutions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in telehealth services, I prioritize inclusivity and integration in our approach to mental health care.The term "verdant path" evokes images of lush greenery, gentle breezes, and a sense of tranquility.The verdant path symbolizes a journey filled with rejuvenation, growth, and a deep connection to nature's soothing embrace. I will strive to be your partner on this journey.
We all face challenges from time to time. You don’t have to face them alone. Welcome to Verdant Path Mental Health; where compassionate care meets innovative solutions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in telehealth services, I prioritize inclusivity and integration in our approach to mental health care.The term "verdant path" evokes images of lush greenery, gentle breezes, and a sense of tranquility.The verdant path symbolizes a journey filled with rejuvenation, growth, and a deep connection to nature's soothing embrace. I will strive to be your partner on this journey.
Hello and a warm welcome! In my 18-year career, I have worked with quite literally thousands of different patients with a variety of different mental health problems and diagnoses and a wide variety of issues, including neurological problems like TBIs, POTS/ dysautonomia, and vestibulopathies. My patients want up-to-date information and a clinician who is constantly educating herself. I hear from patients that they often feel rushed by their provider visits; in my practice, I nurture our relationship and take my time. A typical encounter with me is a full hour. I strive to know and to understand you.
Hello and a warm welcome! In my 18-year career, I have worked with quite literally thousands of different patients with a variety of different mental health problems and diagnoses and a wide variety of issues, including neurological problems like TBIs, POTS/ dysautonomia, and vestibulopathies. My patients want up-to-date information and a clinician who is constantly educating herself. I hear from patients that they often feel rushed by their provider visits; in my practice, I nurture our relationship and take my time. A typical encounter with me is a full hour. I strive to know and to understand you.
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 12/3/24 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 12/3/24 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.
Amanda Rapaport
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015
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.
Dr. Dianna Harris (Taking New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 12/3/24 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 12/3/24 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.
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients 16+ with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients 16+ with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
I am currently accepting women and teens that need support related to focusing, organization and time planning challenges. I offer a dynamic three or four month process of: 1) assessing to the extent possible whether ADHD and/or other mental health conditions exist, 2) identifying your personal strengths and challenges related to organizational and time management, and 3) do a 'deep dive' into what many call executive function skills of the brain and explore what external supports strengthen these abilities for you.
I am currently accepting women and teens that need support related to focusing, organization and time planning challenges. I offer a dynamic three or four month process of: 1) assessing to the extent possible whether ADHD and/or other mental health conditions exist, 2) identifying your personal strengths and challenges related to organizational and time management, and 3) do a 'deep dive' into what many call executive function skills of the brain and explore what external supports strengthen these abilities for you.
Hello! I am a wife, mother, artist, therapist and psychiatrist, and I would love to hear from you. With each patient, I take a highly personalized approach, focused on developing a relationship which informs the treatment plan. Most of my patients suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life stressors. I believe in carefully using medications to relieve symptoms, often coupled with insight oriented psychotherapy. Through this careful, thoughtful, and deep process, I find that patients experience the greatest chance of symptom relief and true life change.
Hello! I am a wife, mother, artist, therapist and psychiatrist, and I would love to hear from you. With each patient, I take a highly personalized approach, focused on developing a relationship which informs the treatment plan. Most of my patients suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life stressors. I believe in carefully using medications to relieve symptoms, often coupled with insight oriented psychotherapy. Through this careful, thoughtful, and deep process, I find that patients experience the greatest chance of symptom relief and true life change.
Are you looking for a compassionate and holistic approach to your mental health? I’m Katelyn Smith, a Board-Certified Physician Assistant dedicated to supporting adults who are committed to their well-being. Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to help you achieve meaningful progress.
Are you looking for a compassionate and holistic approach to your mental health? I’m Katelyn Smith, a Board-Certified Physician Assistant dedicated to supporting adults who are committed to their well-being. Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to help you achieve meaningful progress.
Mindlight Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in diagnosing and treating a range of mental health conditions. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or something more complex, I offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in diagnosing and treating a range of mental health conditions. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or something more complex, I offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs
Welcome to Cognitive Care Medical Group (CCMG). CCMG is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologist with the sole focus of providing mental health care for individuals utilizing evidence based medicine and therapy. CCMG provides services to evaluate, diagnose, establish treatment plan options, education of treatment options, and care management, so that individuals can make an informed decision that is most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Cognitive Care Medical Group (CCMG). CCMG is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologist with the sole focus of providing mental health care for individuals utilizing evidence based medicine and therapy. CCMG provides services to evaluate, diagnose, establish treatment plan options, education of treatment options, and care management, so that individuals can make an informed decision that is most helpful to their needs.
Lizz Pierce-Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canby, OR 97013
Hello, I am Lizz, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with individuals from 5 to 64 years of age who struggle with ADHD, major depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mental health concerns.
Hello, I am Lizz, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with individuals from 5 to 64 years of age who struggle with ADHD, major depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mental health concerns.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I work collaboratively with each patient to create a personalized care plan integrating evidence-based practices with integrative and complementary approaches. I provide a combination of medication management and supportive psychotherapy in every appointment.
See more therapy options for Beavercreek
Nearby Searches for Beavercreek
- Canby
- Clackamas
- Gladstone
- Gresham
- Happy Valley
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Oregon City
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
- Wilsonville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Beavercreek, OR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Beavercreek, OR who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | ComPsych |
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.