Psychiatrists in Florence, OR

Photo of Danielle Norris - Cedar Psychiatric Associates, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cedar Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Florence, OR 97439
Both In Person (Eugene and Reedsport) and Telehealth Appts Available! Accepting new Medicaid and Commercial Insurance clients. We are at capacity for Medicare clients and not accepting any new Medicare clients at this time. Please check back periodically as this can change. A Request an Appointment Form is located on our Cedar Psychiatric Associates website under the New Clients tab.
Both In Person (Eugene and Reedsport) and Telehealth Appts Available! Accepting new Medicaid and Commercial Insurance clients. We are at capacity for Medicare clients and not accepting any new Medicare clients at this time. Please check back periodically as this can change. A Request an Appointment Form is located on our Cedar Psychiatric Associates website under the New Clients tab.
(541) 731-4600 View (541) 731-4600
Photo of Jamie Nadine Mayo, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Nadine Mayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Florence, OR 97439
Jamie specializes in working with clients with PTSD and/or complex trauma. In addition to therapy, she also offers psychiatric medication management. She served in the US Navy Reserves for 8 years and is the wife of a retired Sheriff’s Deputy. She is thankful for all our Military Veterans, Firefighters, Emergency Responders, and Police Officers here in Coastal and Southern Oregon.
Jamie specializes in working with clients with PTSD and/or complex trauma. In addition to therapy, she also offers psychiatric medication management. She served in the US Navy Reserves for 8 years and is the wife of a retired Sheriff’s Deputy. She is thankful for all our Military Veterans, Firefighters, Emergency Responders, and Police Officers here in Coastal and Southern Oregon.
(541) 615-7488 View (541) 615-7488

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Lynaudry Louise Vickers, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynaudry Louise Vickers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
(971) 233-3831 View (971) 233-3831
Photo of Felicia Turner - Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97403  (Online Only)
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
(425) 382-7463 View (425) 382-7463
Photo of DeRoy C Obilor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
DeRoy C Obilor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
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.
(541) 299-3947 View (541) 299-3947
Photo of Audry Van Houweling - She Soars Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, MN, BSN, BS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
She Soars Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MN, BSN, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silverton, OR 97381
Audry Van Houweling, PMHNP-BC founded She Soars Psychiatry with the intent of providing a fresh approach to confronting mental health concerns that focuses not only on medication, but to the multiple factors that can impact emotional wellness. Factors may include hormone balance, cellular function, nutrition, immune function, organ function, gastrointestinal health, and certainly social and spiritual circumstances. She Soars Psychiatry offers holistic mental health solutions to individuals and families including medication management, counseling, and functional medicine. Accepting insurance and low monthly memberships available!
Audry Van Houweling, PMHNP-BC founded She Soars Psychiatry with the intent of providing a fresh approach to confronting mental health concerns that focuses not only on medication, but to the multiple factors that can impact emotional wellness. Factors may include hormone balance, cellular function, nutrition, immune function, organ function, gastrointestinal health, and certainly social and spiritual circumstances. She Soars Psychiatry offers holistic mental health solutions to individuals and families including medication management, counseling, and functional medicine. Accepting insurance and low monthly memberships available!
(541) 291-4170 View (541) 291-4170
Photo of Marisa Bell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97403  (Online Only)
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
(541) 920-1081 View (541) 920-1081
Photo of Monica L Byers, MSN, APN-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Monica L Byers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
Our clients aim for meaningful outcomes, seeking to enhance their well-being, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose in life. Monica Byers, ARNP, is a dedicated Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner holding dual ANCC Board certifications in Psychiatry/Mental Health and Adult Health. With over 25 years of experience in various care settings, Monica is known for her compassionate care and commitment to helping individuals achieve their optimal wellness.
Our clients aim for meaningful outcomes, seeking to enhance their well-being, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose in life. Monica Byers, ARNP, is a dedicated Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner holding dual ANCC Board certifications in Psychiatry/Mental Health and Adult Health. With over 25 years of experience in various care settings, Monica is known for her compassionate care and commitment to helping individuals achieve their optimal wellness.
(458) 320-2408 View (458) 320-2408
Photo of Eun Park, MD, Psychiatrist
Eun Park
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Dr. Park is a psychiatrist with more than 10 years of experience treating a diverse range of issues in the mental health field. She is welltraveled & has studied & worked in different parts of the US in medical as well as in scientific fields. Using evidencebased recommendations & experience to guide her medication management, she treats patients ages 18 & over. Her hope is to help patients live with more ease & less distress.
Dr. Park is a psychiatrist with more than 10 years of experience treating a diverse range of issues in the mental health field. She is welltraveled & has studied & worked in different parts of the US in medical as well as in scientific fields. Using evidencebased recommendations & experience to guide her medication management, she treats patients ages 18 & over. Her hope is to help patients live with more ease & less distress.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Maggie Yorio, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
(971) 306-9491 View (971) 306-9491
Photo of John Benson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(503) 832-5099 View (503) 832-5099
Photo of Alyson Lumos, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alyson Lumos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
It is my belief that each person deserves support to move beyond emotional pain. I will support you in exploring and identifying your needs and mental health goals. I then guide you in developing an individualized treatment plan for symptoms including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, psychosis, or the effects of trauma and stress on your life. Emotional pain shows up differently for each person, and my goal is to work closely together with you to explore how to best relieve this pain and improve your quality of life.
It is my belief that each person deserves support to move beyond emotional pain. I will support you in exploring and identifying your needs and mental health goals. I then guide you in developing an individualized treatment plan for symptoms including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, psychosis, or the effects of trauma and stress on your life. Emotional pain shows up differently for each person, and my goal is to work closely together with you to explore how to best relieve this pain and improve your quality of life.
(541) 872-3277 View (541) 872-3277
Photo of Shinichi Daimyo, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shinichi Daimyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
(458) 216-5983 View (458) 216-5983
Photo of Nancy Masters, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roseburg, OR 97471
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 18+ in Oregon and Washington.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 18+ in Oregon and Washington.
(541) 234-3401 View (541) 234-3401
Photo of Jenn Grant, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenn Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
Now Accepting New Patients at NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS! Hello and thanks for taking the time to invest in your mental health! I’m Dr. Grant and I’m a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained in both medication management and psychotherapy.  I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychosis. I also have a particular passion for functional and reproductive psychiatry, including working with clients in the pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-partum stages of life.
Now Accepting New Patients at NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS! Hello and thanks for taking the time to invest in your mental health! I’m Dr. Grant and I’m a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained in both medication management and psychotherapy.  I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and psychosis. I also have a particular passion for functional and reproductive psychiatry, including working with clients in the pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-partum stages of life.
(503) 966-4192 View (503) 966-4192
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (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 Natalia Hicks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalia Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Medication Management & supportive therapy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues and feel lost in your options? I am here to help. With me, you’ll find a safe space where understanding and empathy are at the forefront of our work together. With decades of experience under my belt, I have been working with individuals of all ages and genders, as well as those with a wide range of diagnoses. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, insomnia, crisis/grief, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, aggressive & suicidal behaviors, schizophrenias and other psychosis.
Accepting New Clients. Medication Management & supportive therapy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues and feel lost in your options? I am here to help. With me, you’ll find a safe space where understanding and empathy are at the forefront of our work together. With decades of experience under my belt, I have been working with individuals of all ages and genders, as well as those with a wide range of diagnoses. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, insomnia, crisis/grief, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, aggressive & suicidal behaviors, schizophrenias and other psychosis.
(541) 262-6362 View (541) 262-6362
Photo of Melinda Lowe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melinda Lowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Currently accepting new clients! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or fatigue? Have you been wondering about treatment options that could help to improve your sense of health and wellness? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to provide a nonjudgmental and patient-centered environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your concerns.
Currently accepting new clients! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or fatigue? Have you been wondering about treatment options that could help to improve your sense of health and wellness? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to provide a nonjudgmental and patient-centered environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your concerns.
(503) 831-9183 View (503) 831-9183
Photo of Todd Infinger, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Todd Infinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients! Free genetic and neuropsychological testing available! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wide range of experience working with children and adults suffering from mental illnesses. I have a passion for the treatment of anxiety disorders, agoraphobia, and the unique experiences of those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. I believe the patient’s goals are at the center of effective treatment and strive to ensure they feel informed and are an equal partner throughout the treatment process.
Currently accepting new patients! Free genetic and neuropsychological testing available! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a wide range of experience working with children and adults suffering from mental illnesses. I have a passion for the treatment of anxiety disorders, agoraphobia, and the unique experiences of those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. I believe the patient’s goals are at the center of effective treatment and strive to ensure they feel informed and are an equal partner throughout the treatment process.
(541) 539-4683 View (541) 539-4683
Photo of Alfredo J Velez, MD, Psychiatrist
Alfredo J Velez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Currently accepting new patients as of May 2023 for psychiatric medication management and ketamine assisted psychotherapy. Dr. Velez is a board-certified psychiatrist who trained at the Temple University School of Medicine and completed a psychiatric residency at Maricopa Integrated Health Systems. He is also a graduate of the CIIS Psychedelic Assisted Therapies and Research program. This training and subsequent experiences have given him the ability to help patients evaluate their psychedelic therapy options. He also speaks Spanish fluently.
Currently accepting new patients as of May 2023 for psychiatric medication management and ketamine assisted psychotherapy. Dr. Velez is a board-certified psychiatrist who trained at the Temple University School of Medicine and completed a psychiatric residency at Maricopa Integrated Health Systems. He is also a graduate of the CIIS Psychedelic Assisted Therapies and Research program. This training and subsequent experiences have given him the ability to help patients evaluate their psychedelic therapy options. He also speaks Spanish fluently.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Florence, OR

< 10

Psychiatrists in Florence, OR who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Addiction
100% Trauma and PTSD
50% Anxiety
50% Geriatric and Seniors
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Psychosis

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medicaid
100% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Florence, OR see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Florence?

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.