Psychiatrists in Coquille, OR

Photo of Chantal Van Wely, Psychiatrist, MD
Chantal Van Wely
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am welcoming new patients for medication management, with appointments available within 2 weeks! I diagnose and treat patients with a wide variety of mood and behavioral disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and schizophrenia. An additional area of focus for me is pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum mental health care. My approach is comprehensive and focused on the biopsychosocial model. This means I strive to include all parts of a patient’s life when considering their diagnosis and treatment. I try to bring warmth, empathy, insight, and professionalism to every interaction.
I am welcoming new patients for medication management, with appointments available within 2 weeks! I diagnose and treat patients with a wide variety of mood and behavioral disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and schizophrenia. An additional area of focus for me is pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum mental health care. My approach is comprehensive and focused on the biopsychosocial model. This means I strive to include all parts of a patient’s life when considering their diagnosis and treatment. I try to bring warmth, empathy, insight, and professionalism to every interaction.
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Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
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.
(541) 896-4807 View (541) 896-4807
Photo of Ashley Phillips - Coastal Roots Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Coastal Roots Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to her patients and provides culturally competent, respectful, and evidenced based mental health care to patients aged 5 and up. She has a passion for working with children and patients with special needs, however she enjoys the variety of treating all ages and backgrounds. Ashley’s goal is to help guide her clients in becoming the best version of themselves. She offers online tele-health and in person appointments, with weekend and evening hours available.
Ashley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to her patients and provides culturally competent, respectful, and evidenced based mental health care to patients aged 5 and up. She has a passion for working with children and patients with special needs, however she enjoys the variety of treating all ages and backgrounds. Ashley’s goal is to help guide her clients in becoming the best version of themselves. She offers online tele-health and in person appointments, with weekend and evening hours available.
(541) 543-2066 View (541) 543-2066

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jonathan Wayne - NTX , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
NTX
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
(541) 800-2169 View (541) 800-2169
Photo of Rita Perez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rita Perez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Rita Perez; I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently serving patients in Nevada via telehealth. I work with patients ages 12 and up, and my focus is on anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. My approach is comprehensive, focusing on each individual as a whole person: mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. As a psychiatric provider, I aim to help individuals work through the complexities of their emotions and life’s challenges.
My name is Rita Perez; I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently serving patients in Nevada via telehealth. I work with patients ages 12 and up, and my focus is on anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. My approach is comprehensive, focusing on each individual as a whole person: mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. As a psychiatric provider, I aim to help individuals work through the complexities of their emotions and life’s challenges.
(458) 227-7471 View (458) 227-7471
Photo of Nathan Patrick Johnson - Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Nathan P. Johnson - (Stasis Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt in 2016. Prior to starting a private practice, I worked in the acute setting at Salem Hospital treating clients in an inpatient unit. I have experience treating clients in stable, and acute disease states. Prior to beginning my career in psychiatric nursing, I specialized in behavioral neuroscience and studied for 12-years a combination of psychology, counseling, and behavioral interventions. My passion is mental health care and I seek to incorporate different modalities into the care.
(503) 773-6576 View (503) 773-6576
Photo of Terrance Jackson - Carolyn & KAL Wellness Center, A NP Inc. , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Carolyn & KAL Wellness Center, A NP Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
With trauma-focused training from UCLA and supervisory experience at both UCLA and Kaiser Permanente, I combine advanced clinical expertise with genuine compassion. My background as a public health surveyor in mental health hospitals reinforced my belief that healing begins with dignity, empathy, and respect for each individual’s unique story.
With trauma-focused training from UCLA and supervisory experience at both UCLA and Kaiser Permanente, I combine advanced clinical expertise with genuine compassion. My background as a public health surveyor in mental health hospitals reinforced my belief that healing begins with dignity, empathy, and respect for each individual’s unique story.
(559) 479-5994 View (559) 479-5994
Photo of Dr. Pei Jun Harris - Athena Medical & Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, APRN
Athena Medical & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, APRN
North Bend, OR 97459
I am Pei Harris, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with a specialty in endo-psychiatry. I am also an ADHD Clinical Certified Service Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, Certified Hypnotherapist, and a Functional Nutrition Informed Professional. In addition, OCD, insomnia, bipolar I & II, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety, and other mental health issues in both the pediatric and adult populations are among the psychiatric illnesses I treat. Besides psychiatric, hormonal optimization, and chronic complex conditions are also my specialized areas.
I am Pei Harris, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with a specialty in endo-psychiatry. I am also an ADHD Clinical Certified Service Provider, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, Certified Hypnotherapist, and a Functional Nutrition Informed Professional. In addition, OCD, insomnia, bipolar I & II, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety, and other mental health issues in both the pediatric and adult populations are among the psychiatric illnesses I treat. Besides psychiatric, hormonal optimization, and chronic complex conditions are also my specialized areas.
(541) 507-8716 View (541) 507-8716
Photo of Nicole Mutnansky - Neupathway (Nicole Mutnansky), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, BSN
Neupathway (Nicole Mutnansky)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, BSN
Serves Area
Imagine a clinic where patients feel genuinely seen and supported—where care is personalized, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. This clinic serves individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, including adolescence, pregnancy, and postpartum. Their goal is to partner with a provider who brings not only clinical expertise but also compassion and holistic insight. They’re seeking someone who honors each patient’s unique journey and can support them through change and healing.
Imagine a clinic where patients feel genuinely seen and supported—where care is personalized, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. This clinic serves individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, including adolescence, pregnancy, and postpartum. Their goal is to partner with a provider who brings not only clinical expertise but also compassion and holistic insight. They’re seeking someone who honors each patient’s unique journey and can support them through change and healing.
(360) 996-6088 View (360) 996-6088
Photo of Molly Monsees - Neupathway (Molly Monsees), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BSN, MSN
Neupathway (Molly Monsees)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BSN, MSN
Serves Area
Imagine a clinic where patients of all backgrounds feel safe, respected, and supported. A place where compassionate, individualized care is the norm—whether treating mild anxiety or managing complex psychiatric crises. Your ideal clinic values diversity, cultural competence, and holistic healing. You're seeking a provider who aligns with these goals, someone experienced in both acute and long-term care who can connect meaningfully with each patient and contribute to your clinic’s mission of delivering equitable, high-quality mental health services.
Imagine a clinic where patients of all backgrounds feel safe, respected, and supported. A place where compassionate, individualized care is the norm—whether treating mild anxiety or managing complex psychiatric crises. Your ideal clinic values diversity, cultural competence, and holistic healing. You're seeking a provider who aligns with these goals, someone experienced in both acute and long-term care who can connect meaningfully with each patient and contribute to your clinic’s mission of delivering equitable, high-quality mental health services.
(541) 721-8066 View (541) 721-8066
Photo of Danielle Norris - Cedar Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Cedar Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
Unlock Your Potential with ADHD Testing at Cedar Psychiatric Associates! We are now offering ADHD testing with appointments available in less than two weeks! Whether you prefer the comfort of your home or an in-person visit, we’ve got you covered with both telehealth and in-office appointments in Eugene and Reedsport. We welcome new clients with Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial insurance. To get started, simply visit our website and fill out the "Request an Appointment". Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to improved mental health and well-being. Don't wait—unlock your full potential today!
Unlock Your Potential with ADHD Testing at Cedar Psychiatric Associates! We are now offering ADHD testing with appointments available in less than two weeks! Whether you prefer the comfort of your home or an in-person visit, we’ve got you covered with both telehealth and in-office appointments in Eugene and Reedsport. We welcome new clients with Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial insurance. To get started, simply visit our website and fill out the "Request an Appointment". Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to improved mental health and well-being. Don't wait—unlock your full potential today!
(541) 731-4600 View (541) 731-4600

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Joy Ichie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Joy Ichie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Online Only
Now accepting new clients New York and Oregon via flexible telehealth appointment for Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, or ADHD assessment and treatment. I am Dr. Joy Ichie, a board-certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I help adults of all ages find relief and stability through compassionate and evidence-based treatment and support. I provide psychiatric evaluations, referrals, care cordination, ADHD testing and medication management — all through secure telehealth, so you can get help from the comfort of your home.
Now accepting new clients New York and Oregon via flexible telehealth appointment for Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, or ADHD assessment and treatment. I am Dr. Joy Ichie, a board-certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I help adults of all ages find relief and stability through compassionate and evidence-based treatment and support. I provide psychiatric evaluations, referrals, care cordination, ADHD testing and medication management — all through secure telehealth, so you can get help from the comfort of your home.
(541) 204-6060 View (541) 204-6060
Photo of Olivia Russ, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olivia Russ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treating individuals facing depression, PTSD, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and general life changes and challenges, my professional journey is driven by a profound commitment to fostering healing and resilience in the face of adversity. Each day, I am humbled by the opportunity to walk alongside my patients on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treating individuals facing depression, PTSD, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and general life changes and challenges, my professional journey is driven by a profound commitment to fostering healing and resilience in the face of adversity. Each day, I am humbled by the opportunity to walk alongside my patients on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being.
(623) 281-2507 View (623) 281-2507
Photo of Brook Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brook Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eugene, OR 97401
Brook is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy to individuals from all walks of life. She enjoys working with a wide variety of clients and conditions – including ADHD, Eating Disorders, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders. Brook treats every client with up-to-date evidence-based practices and an individualized approach. She has several years’ experience working alongside individuals diagnosed with eating disorders and practices from a Health at Every Size perspective.
Brook is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who provides medication management and supportive psychotherapy to individuals from all walks of life. She enjoys working with a wide variety of clients and conditions – including ADHD, Eating Disorders, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders. Brook treats every client with up-to-date evidence-based practices and an individualized approach. She has several years’ experience working alongside individuals diagnosed with eating disorders and practices from a Health at Every Size perspective.
(541) 960-4684 View (541) 960-4684
Photo of Kathleen Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kathleen Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
Currently accepting new clients & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
(458) 200-4394 View (458) 200-4394
Photo of Convince Njiru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, BC
Convince Njiru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, BC
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients! I am dedicated to helping individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges find stability, healing, and hope. My ideal clients are those seeking compassionate, evidence-based care that respects their unique experiences and goals. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel understood, valued, and equipped to achieve lasting mental wellness.
Currently accepting new patients! I am dedicated to helping individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges find stability, healing, and hope. My ideal clients are those seeking compassionate, evidence-based care that respects their unique experiences and goals. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel understood, valued, and equipped to achieve lasting mental wellness.
(541) 229-0764 View (541) 229-0764
Photo of Tenishia Santiago - Holsan Behavioral Health - Oregon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Holsan Behavioral Health - Oregon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Medford, OR 97501
Accepting New Patients. Tenishia is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. She is US Navy Veteran who is passionate about mental health and specializes in attention difficulties, mood challenges, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep, military issues and trauma. She offers in person care in Medford, OR, and telehealth services across the state of Oregon, ensuring convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer in person services out of our Medford, OR office to start soon. Other locations to be added soon.
Accepting New Patients. Tenishia is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. She is US Navy Veteran who is passionate about mental health and specializes in attention difficulties, mood challenges, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep, military issues and trauma. She offers in person care in Medford, OR, and telehealth services across the state of Oregon, ensuring convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer in person services out of our Medford, OR office to start soon. Other locations to be added soon.
(458) 237-8707 View (458) 237-8707
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Eugene, OR 97403
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. She 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. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(561) 823-1255 View (561) 823-1255
Photo of Tamara Rasmussen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tamara Rasmussen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eugene, OR 97401
Hi! My name is Tamara Rasmussen, but you can call me Tami. I'm a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in OR, WA, UT, MN, & NV. I completed my undergrad & graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, CA. I see patients 13+. I'm passionate about providing support for life challenges and specialize in issues that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, chronic pain mental health treatment, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. Before breaking into the world of psychiatric care, I worked in cardiovascular nursing. When I'm not working, you can find me outdoors with my pitbull Coco!
Hi! My name is Tamara Rasmussen, but you can call me Tami. I'm a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in OR, WA, UT, MN, & NV. I completed my undergrad & graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, CA. I see patients 13+. I'm passionate about providing support for life challenges and specialize in issues that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, chronic pain mental health treatment, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. Before breaking into the world of psychiatric care, I worked in cardiovascular nursing. When I'm not working, you can find me outdoors with my pitbull Coco!
(541) 655-3270 View (541) 655-3270
Photo of Katherine Leatherman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPH
Katherine Leatherman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPH
Eugene, OR 97401
Katherine provides psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy that is patient-centered and compassionate. She will listen carefully to your concerns and questions and take an evidence-based approach to managing you or your child's condition/s. She understands the impact the person's environment has on mental health and works to address behavioral changes while also making the patient comfortable so they can participate in their community and live a higher quality of life. Taking ages 5-21yrs old, become a new patient today! Accepting most insurances and cash pay.
Katherine provides psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy that is patient-centered and compassionate. She will listen carefully to your concerns and questions and take an evidence-based approach to managing you or your child's condition/s. She understands the impact the person's environment has on mental health and works to address behavioral changes while also making the patient comfortable so they can participate in their community and live a higher quality of life. Taking ages 5-21yrs old, become a new patient today! Accepting most insurances and cash pay.
(541) 854-2930 View (541) 854-2930

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Nearby Searches for Coquille

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Coquille, OR

< 10

Psychiatrists in Coquille, OR who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
67% Child
67% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Regence
50% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Coquille, OR see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Coquille?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.