Psychiatrists in Clatsop County, OR

As a Nurse Practitioner with a focus on psychiatry, I began my healthcare career in 2006 as an RN, progressing through degrees at OHSU, Vanderbilt, George Washington University to specialize in mental health prescriptions. I can independently prescribe medications to all of Oregon state.
As a Nurse Practitioner with a focus on psychiatry, I began my healthcare career in 2006 as an RN, progressing through degrees at OHSU, Vanderbilt, George Washington University to specialize in mental health prescriptions. I can independently prescribe medications to all of Oregon state.

Jackie (Jacquelyn) Welborn, PMHNP holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. She graduated from Gonzaga University in 2019 after working in both the Hammond/Warrenton School District and for Seaside Providence Hospital. As a PMHNP, her focus is diagnosing and prescribing medications for mental health disorders. Please call the office or fill out a secure contact form on our website to request an appointment. All inquiries must go through our main office.
Jackie (Jacquelyn) Welborn, PMHNP holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. She graduated from Gonzaga University in 2019 after working in both the Hammond/Warrenton School District and for Seaside Providence Hospital. As a PMHNP, her focus is diagnosing and prescribing medications for mental health disorders. Please call the office or fill out a secure contact form on our website to request an appointment. All inquiries must go through our main office.

Neupathway (Sharlynn Van Tassel)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Astoria, OR 97103
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Many arrive overwhelmed—struggling with multiple diagnoses, ineffective treatments, or mental health concerns that have gone unnoticed or misunderstood. Their goals are clear: accurate diagnoses, effective treatment plans, and a compassionate provider who truly listens. They want to understand why they feel the way they do and what real, lasting healing can look like—not just symptom management, but a path to balanced, fulfilling lives. Their hope is to partner with someone who values mental health as much as physical well-being.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Many arrive overwhelmed—struggling with multiple diagnoses, ineffective treatments, or mental health concerns that have gone unnoticed or misunderstood. Their goals are clear: accurate diagnoses, effective treatment plans, and a compassionate provider who truly listens. They want to understand why they feel the way they do and what real, lasting healing can look like—not just symptom management, but a path to balanced, fulfilling lives. Their hope is to partner with someone who values mental health as much as physical well-being.

Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Imagine your ideal clinic: a welcoming space where patients feel safe, understood, and valued. Their challenges include fragmented care, long wait times, and limited access to tailored treatment. They need a provider who listens deeply, integrates evidence-based therapies, and designs personalized plans. Their goal is to improve mental wellness, foster resilience, and achieve lasting balance. They want compassionate expertise that guides them toward meaningful, sustainable change.

My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.

My approach to treatment focuses on medication management associated with practical supportive psychotherapy and lifestyle/behavioral modifications. I have trained extensively here in the U.S., Australia and Switzerland. I pride myself on being straightforward and down to earth. I work to find a treatment approach that is symptom focused, practical and specific to your needs.
My approach to treatment focuses on medication management associated with practical supportive psychotherapy and lifestyle/behavioral modifications. I have trained extensively here in the U.S., Australia and Switzerland. I pride myself on being straightforward and down to earth. I work to find a treatment approach that is symptom focused, practical and specific to your needs.
Online Psychiatrists

Corey Watson, DNP, PMHNP, partners with her clients to optimize their mental health. She is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is able to evaluate and treat clients across the lifespan; however works with adult clients, with a speciality in women's mental health. During the appointment, she will conduct a thorough review of your history, provide supportive therapy and recommend or prescribe medications.
Corey Watson, DNP, PMHNP, partners with her clients to optimize their mental health. She is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is able to evaluate and treat clients across the lifespan; however works with adult clients, with a speciality in women's mental health. During the appointment, she will conduct a thorough review of your history, provide supportive therapy and recommend or prescribe medications.

Are you someone currently experiencing difficulty with your mood or having trouble managing anxious feelings? Or do you struggle with obsessive thoughts or anxious rumination that interfere with your daily functioning or quality of life? If so, there are evidence-based, effective treatments available.
Are you someone currently experiencing difficulty with your mood or having trouble managing anxious feelings? Or do you struggle with obsessive thoughts or anxious rumination that interfere with your daily functioning or quality of life? If so, there are evidence-based, effective treatments available.

Crystal W Higbe -Immediate Availability
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
6 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123
Is your mind always on the go—but your to-do list never seems to move? Living with ADHD or Anxiety can be exhausting, frustrating, and often misunderstood. Whether it's racing thoughts, constant overthinking, or the feeling that you're always behind you're not alone, and real, effective support is available.
I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ADHD and Anxiety across Oregon, offering compassionate, evidence-based care for both teens and adults. If you're struggling with focus, time management, worry, motivation, or emotional regulation, we’ll work together to create a personalized plan that fits your needs.
Is your mind always on the go—but your to-do list never seems to move? Living with ADHD or Anxiety can be exhausting, frustrating, and often misunderstood. Whether it's racing thoughts, constant overthinking, or the feeling that you're always behind you're not alone, and real, effective support is available.
I specialize in psychiatric medication management for ADHD and Anxiety across Oregon, offering compassionate, evidence-based care for both teens and adults. If you're struggling with focus, time management, worry, motivation, or emotional regulation, we’ll work together to create a personalized plan that fits your needs.

Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.

Do you often find yourself overwhelmed and worry that things won't work out? If you (or your child) are described as disorganized, forgetful, overly sensitive, easily frustrated, or the one who talks too much, it likely starts with the unique way that your brain works. These symptoms can make parenting, partnering or just daily life difficult. Many people who work with me have never understood why they experience the world differently than others. Clients often come to me wondering about ADHD. That is one possibility on a long list that should be considered. I am committed to supporting each client in the process of understanding.
Do you often find yourself overwhelmed and worry that things won't work out? If you (or your child) are described as disorganized, forgetful, overly sensitive, easily frustrated, or the one who talks too much, it likely starts with the unique way that your brain works. These symptoms can make parenting, partnering or just daily life difficult. Many people who work with me have never understood why they experience the world differently than others. Clients often come to me wondering about ADHD. That is one possibility on a long list that should be considered. I am committed to supporting each client in the process of understanding.

Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.
Currently accepting new patients at joinlalune.com - Elita Wong, NP is a graduate of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and NYU's College of Nursing. She received her psychiatry training at Hunter-Bellevue College in New York City and has experience in both non-profit and private practice mental health clinics. Prior to specializing in mental health, she worked as a clinical nurse at Columbia University Medical Center in the pediatric, oncology, and hematology specialities. She currently provides psychiatric mental health services via telemedicine in Oregon and Washington States.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.

My name is Mary Tobey, I go by "Maria". I have been working in mental health nursing for the past 9 years, and nursing in general for the past 23 years. I focus on treating mood disorders like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I am licensed to practice in the state of OR & WA. My style of engaging with patients is holistic. I believe in meeting the needs of the mind, the body and soul, for a more fulfilled existence. My clients can expect to feel more hopeful, understood, and empowered after a session with me.
My name is Mary Tobey, I go by "Maria". I have been working in mental health nursing for the past 9 years, and nursing in general for the past 23 years. I focus on treating mood disorders like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I am licensed to practice in the state of OR & WA. My style of engaging with patients is holistic. I believe in meeting the needs of the mind, the body and soul, for a more fulfilled existence. My clients can expect to feel more hopeful, understood, and empowered after a session with me.

Morgan Geiger, MSN, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive clinical experience. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from Columbia University and completed her post-master’s psychiatric training at Duke University. With experience spanning New York City, Oregon, Alaska, and India, Morgan has a systems-level understanding of mental health care and is committed to improving access to services and the quality of care provided.
Morgan Geiger, MSN, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive clinical experience. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from Columbia University and completed her post-master’s psychiatric training at Duke University. With experience spanning New York City, Oregon, Alaska, and India, Morgan has a systems-level understanding of mental health care and is committed to improving access to services and the quality of care provided.

My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.

Untreated or under-treated mental health challenges like ADHD, anxiety, and depression can deeply affect every aspect of life—straining relationships, disrupting routines, and limiting your potential. These struggles don’t have to define you. With the right support, you can regain control, find balance, and rediscover your best self. Together, we can work toward achieving your goals and building a brighter future.
Untreated or under-treated mental health challenges like ADHD, anxiety, and depression can deeply affect every aspect of life—straining relationships, disrupting routines, and limiting your potential. These struggles don’t have to define you. With the right support, you can regain control, find balance, and rediscover your best self. Together, we can work toward achieving your goals and building a brighter future.

Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/29/25 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2-4 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 5/29/25 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2-4 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.

Andrene Benjamin, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a highly skilled and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a nearly decade-long career dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families. Board-certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practice, Andrene combines her expertise in acute and chronic health care with a deep passion for mental health. Her dual certification equips her to address both the physical and psychological aspects of her patients’ well-being, providing holistic, patient-centered care.
Andrene Benjamin, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a highly skilled and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a nearly decade-long career dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families. Board-certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practice, Andrene combines her expertise in acute and chronic health care with a deep passion for mental health. Her dual certification equips her to address both the physical and psychological aspects of her patients’ well-being, providing holistic, patient-centered care.

Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home. Safe Haven Health specializes in mental health medication management, at-home ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety, ADHD testing and treatment, and more.
Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home. Safe Haven Health specializes in mental health medication management, at-home ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety, ADHD testing and treatment, and more.
See more therapy options for Clatsop County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Clatsop County, OR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Clatsop County, OR who prioritize treating:
83% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Depression |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Clatsop County, OR see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Clatsop 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.