Psychiatrists in Benton County, OR

Dr. Gomez is comfortable with a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses, with an emerging focus on women's reproductive mental health (including infertility, pregnancy loss, premenstrual mood disorders, mental health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum mental health). Other areas of interest include burnout, health care worker/ first responder specific stressors, generalized and social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders (w/therapist and registered dietician), acute trauma, gender and sexuality exploration and ADHD.
Dr. Gomez is comfortable with a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses, with an emerging focus on women's reproductive mental health (including infertility, pregnancy loss, premenstrual mood disorders, mental health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum mental health). Other areas of interest include burnout, health care worker/ first responder specific stressors, generalized and social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders (w/therapist and registered dietician), acute trauma, gender and sexuality exploration and ADHD.

Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.

As a PMHNP-C, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care for individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel comfortable expressing their concerns. With a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and evidence-based treatments, I am committed to tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
As a PMHNP-C, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care for individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel comfortable expressing their concerns. With a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and evidence-based treatments, I am committed to tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.

I am excited to be joining the team at Two Rivers Integrative Health in Corvallis, Or. I will be starting to see clients in late June. I provide medication management along with other therapies that are personalized to each individual. Some of the mental health issues I treat include: anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, Complex PTSD, Codependency, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Trauma. I work with people age 6 years old and up.
I am excited to be joining the team at Two Rivers Integrative Health in Corvallis, Or. I will be starting to see clients in late June. I provide medication management along with other therapies that are personalized to each individual. Some of the mental health issues I treat include: anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, Complex PTSD, Codependency, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Trauma. I work with people age 6 years old and up.

I have specialized training in women's health and hormone management for perimenopause and menopause, complex perinatal and postpartum psychiatry, as well as psychiatric care for people over 13 years of age. I have also pursued additional training in integrative women's health, perinatal and postpartum fitness coaching, nutrition and lifestyle medicine, polycystic ovarian disorder management, and the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. I have also received extensive education in the fields of philosophy and religious studies, which serve as a framework for my practice.
I have specialized training in women's health and hormone management for perimenopause and menopause, complex perinatal and postpartum psychiatry, as well as psychiatric care for people over 13 years of age. I have also pursued additional training in integrative women's health, perinatal and postpartum fitness coaching, nutrition and lifestyle medicine, polycystic ovarian disorder management, and the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. I have also received extensive education in the fields of philosophy and religious studies, which serve as a framework for my practice.

Thriving with competing life stressors and the inner chatter can be difficult to navigate. But you deserve to be authentically YOU. Let’s collaborate. Be open to trying new things. Practice skills outside of session. Together we can build on your strengths to cultivate self-compassion and improve your engagement with the world around you. Don’t know if you need therapy or medications? As a board certified adult psychiatrist, we can pursue both options. Have a specific goal in mind? Great! We can tailor to your goals. In need of treatment for PTSD? We can utilize cognitive processing therapy for 8-15 active treatment sessions
Thriving with competing life stressors and the inner chatter can be difficult to navigate. But you deserve to be authentically YOU. Let’s collaborate. Be open to trying new things. Practice skills outside of session. Together we can build on your strengths to cultivate self-compassion and improve your engagement with the world around you. Don’t know if you need therapy or medications? As a board certified adult psychiatrist, we can pursue both options. Have a specific goal in mind? Great! We can tailor to your goals. In need of treatment for PTSD? We can utilize cognitive processing therapy for 8-15 active treatment sessions

I am eager to be your guide on your mental health journey!
Conditions I treat include mood disorders (major depression, bipolar, PMDD), anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders and ADHD.
I utilize nutrition and lifestyle modification, medication management and therapy.
Healing is challenging work and I am here to support your efforts by cultivating curiosity and empowerment.
I am eager to be your guide on your mental health journey!
Conditions I treat include mood disorders (major depression, bipolar, PMDD), anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders and ADHD.
I utilize nutrition and lifestyle modification, medication management and therapy.
Healing is challenging work and I am here to support your efforts by cultivating curiosity and empowerment.

Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy, and takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy, and takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.

Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly battling your own brain? Does your mind wander so much that staying focused feels impossible? Maybe friends joke that you lose track of time, or you find yourself worrying about saying too much in conversations. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD, you’re not alone — and support is within reach. At Synchronous Mental Health, we specialize in compassionate, comprehensive care that helps individuals manage these challenges and regain control of their mental health to live fuller, more balanced lives.
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly battling your own brain? Does your mind wander so much that staying focused feels impossible? Maybe friends joke that you lose track of time, or you find yourself worrying about saying too much in conversations. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, or ADHD, you’re not alone — and support is within reach. At Synchronous Mental Health, we specialize in compassionate, comprehensive care that helps individuals manage these challenges and regain control of their mental health to live fuller, more balanced lives.

I am currently accepting first responders and perinatal women as new patients at this time. I treat mental health issues including: depression, anxiety, perinatal mood disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I utilize a combination of medication, therapy, lab work, genetic testing and lifestyle changes to promote health and wellbeing. I assist patients in stabilizing and managing symptoms first so we can focus on the deeper work of healing. I am patient-centered and trauma informed. I strive to understand your needs, respect you as the expert in your own life experiences, and honor your personal strengths.
I am currently accepting first responders and perinatal women as new patients at this time. I treat mental health issues including: depression, anxiety, perinatal mood disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I utilize a combination of medication, therapy, lab work, genetic testing and lifestyle changes to promote health and wellbeing. I assist patients in stabilizing and managing symptoms first so we can focus on the deeper work of healing. I am patient-centered and trauma informed. I strive to understand your needs, respect you as the expert in your own life experiences, and honor your personal strengths.

Raise your hand if you've ever felt personally victimized by your own brain. Let's put 'Regina George' in its place with a med plan that actually has your back. I believe in personalized care that respects the unique chemistry of your mind and your life. With an evidence-based approach, a touch of humor, and an open mind, I'm here to help you find solutions that truly fit you. Mental health care should meet you where you are and that's exactly what I strive to do.
Raise your hand if you've ever felt personally victimized by your own brain. Let's put 'Regina George' in its place with a med plan that actually has your back. I believe in personalized care that respects the unique chemistry of your mind and your life. With an evidence-based approach, a touch of humor, and an open mind, I'm here to help you find solutions that truly fit you. Mental health care should meet you where you are and that's exactly what I strive to do.

Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.

CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Your mental health isn't something to put off. Start feeling better today! Expert Help For Your Emotional Health. Online and in- person help for anxiety, depression, insomnia, traumatic stress, ADHD. We have licensed prescribers, therapists and provide ADHD Testing, and Ketamine treatments. We embrace diversity and have a team of clinicians to treat clients of all ages. Please visit our website at www.neuropsychiatrytx.com
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Your mental health isn't something to put off. Start feeling better today! Expert Help For Your Emotional Health. Online and in- person help for anxiety, depression, insomnia, traumatic stress, ADHD. We have licensed prescribers, therapists and provide ADHD Testing, and Ketamine treatments. We embrace diversity and have a team of clinicians to treat clients of all ages. Please visit our website at www.neuropsychiatrytx.com

CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. DeRoy Obilor is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He is committed to providing adult & elderly clients with high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care. DeRoy has solid clinical skills complemented by a natural ability to connect with clients and their families DeRoy's role as a PMHNP is multifaceted, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management.
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. DeRoy Obilor is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He is committed to providing adult & elderly clients with high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care. DeRoy has solid clinical skills complemented by a natural ability to connect with clients and their families DeRoy's role as a PMHNP is multifaceted, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management.

Claire Whitehead is a dually board certified nurse practitioner with specialties in psychiatry and family practice. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Claire is skilled in psychiatric assessment and diagnosis and can provide medication management and psychotherapy. She completed undergraduate training at Tulane University in New Orleans and nursing school at Columbia University in New York.
Claire Whitehead is a dually board certified nurse practitioner with specialties in psychiatry and family practice. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Claire is skilled in psychiatric assessment and diagnosis and can provide medication management and psychotherapy. She completed undergraduate training at Tulane University in New Orleans and nursing school at Columbia University in New York.

Hi, I’m Logan, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with nearly a decade of experience in healthcare, and the last two years specializing in psychiatric care. At UpWell, I’m committed to providing high-quality psychiatric care, medication management, and therapeutic services with a compassionate touch.
Hi, I’m Logan, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with nearly a decade of experience in healthcare, and the last two years specializing in psychiatric care. At UpWell, I’m committed to providing high-quality psychiatric care, medication management, and therapeutic services with a compassionate touch.

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.

CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. I'm a Veteran with experience in passionately advocating for the LGBTQ Veteran population. I have certifications in both functional medicine and nutrition programs with an emphasis in psychiatry. I offer traditional, holistic, and integrative approaches to treating mental health conditions which often includes nutrition and supplement advice, exercise routines, and meditative practices, to name a few.
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. I'm a Veteran with experience in passionately advocating for the LGBTQ Veteran population. I have certifications in both functional medicine and nutrition programs with an emphasis in psychiatry. I offer traditional, holistic, and integrative approaches to treating mental health conditions which often includes nutrition and supplement advice, exercise routines, and meditative practices, to name a few.

Are you feeling down or anxious? Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you going through a big change or having relationship concerns? Do you feel like you need a safe space to open up? I have been providing mental health care since 2011. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, burnout, trauma, sleep/insomnia, alcohol/substance use, life transitions, personal and family relationships, and attachment concerns.
Are you feeling down or anxious? Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you going through a big change or having relationship concerns? Do you feel like you need a safe space to open up? I have been providing mental health care since 2011. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, burnout, trauma, sleep/insomnia, alcohol/substance use, life transitions, personal and family relationships, and attachment concerns.

I am accepting patients! Offering therapy, medication management & lab testing. Are you feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, or unable to concentrate? Are you feeling stuck or unfulfilled by your current life or relationships? Or perhaps, you're struggling with body image issues, OCD, PTSD, sleep or mood fluctuations? If you answered yes to any of these questions or have another mental health challenge you're navigating, I'd love to help you. I work with adults 18-65, am trained in every mental health area & have served over 10,000 clients. I I help each client become unstuck & transformed, with stronger coping tools & more peace.
I am accepting patients! Offering therapy, medication management & lab testing. Are you feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, or unable to concentrate? Are you feeling stuck or unfulfilled by your current life or relationships? Or perhaps, you're struggling with body image issues, OCD, PTSD, sleep or mood fluctuations? If you answered yes to any of these questions or have another mental health challenge you're navigating, I'd love to help you. I work with adults 18-65, am trained in every mental health area & have served over 10,000 clients. I I help each client become unstuck & transformed, with stronger coping tools & more peace.
See more therapy options for Benton County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Benton County, OR
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Benton County, OR who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
81% | Medication Management |
76% | ADHD |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | PacificSource |
78% | Aetna |
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Benton County, OR see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Benton County?
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.