Psychiatrists in Multnomah County, OR

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Photo of Logan Prior, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Logan Prior
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Logan, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with nearly a decade of experience in healthcare, and the last two years specializing in psychiatric care. At UpWell, I’m committed to providing high-quality psychiatric care, medication management, and therapeutic services with a compassionate touch.
Hi, I’m Logan, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with nearly a decade of experience in healthcare, and the last two years specializing in psychiatric care. At UpWell, I’m committed to providing high-quality psychiatric care, medication management, and therapeutic services with a compassionate touch.
(971) 260-9356 View (971) 260-9356
Photo of Kathleen Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kathleen Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & Saturday Appointments Available! I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism, stress related disorders, PTSD, sleep challenges, and more. As a psychiatric provider, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the the challenges you are experiencing, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.
(971) 299-7633 View (971) 299-7633
Photo of Riva Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Riva Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Dr. Riva Shah, a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, Oregon. Originally from the Midwest, I have called Portland home for seven years. I completed my medical training at Rush Medical College and my residency at Oregon Health & Science University. In my private practice, I take an integrative approach to mental health, recognizing the interplay of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors. I work with adults navigating a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and women’s mental health issues.
I'm Dr. Riva Shah, a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in Portland, Oregon. Originally from the Midwest, I have called Portland home for seven years. I completed my medical training at Rush Medical College and my residency at Oregon Health & Science University. In my private practice, I take an integrative approach to mental health, recognizing the interplay of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors. I work with adults navigating a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and women’s mental health issues.
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Photo of Crystal Marshall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Crystal Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Hi, I’m Crystal Marshall, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I value holistic, outcome-based care, empowering clients to be active participants in their treatment by understanding their options and needs. I graduated from Frontier Nursing University and trained at Valley Behavioral Health in Utah, where I gained invaluable experience in community mental health.
Hi, I’m Crystal Marshall, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I value holistic, outcome-based care, empowering clients to be active participants in their treatment by understanding their options and needs. I graduated from Frontier Nursing University and trained at Valley Behavioral Health in Utah, where I gained invaluable experience in community mental health.
(971) 328-4355 View (971) 328-4355
Photo of Dr. Malinda R Conrad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Dr. Malinda R Conrad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Online Only
With more than 15 years experience as a board certified Nurse Practitioner, my objective is to assist clients/patients in meeting their healthcare goals with professionalism and compassion with treatments supported by evidence.
With more than 15 years experience as a board certified Nurse Practitioner, my objective is to assist clients/patients in meeting their healthcare goals with professionalism and compassion with treatments supported by evidence.
(971) 314-6859 View (971) 314-6859
Neisha Dsouza
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, OR 97215
My approach to care is both personalized and thorough. While psychiatric symptoms are essential to assess, I recognize true healing in improvements in one's quality of life, sense of peace, empowerment, and functional abilities.
My approach to care is both personalized and thorough. While psychiatric symptoms are essential to assess, I recognize true healing in improvements in one's quality of life, sense of peace, empowerment, and functional abilities.
(503) 850-2488 View (503) 850-2488
Photo of Ryan MacPhee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Ryan MacPhee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am currently accepting new clients. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia or symptoms of ADHD? I believe that the most effective path to mental well-being combines medication management and therapy. Research consistently shows that this integrative approach is more powerful than either treatment alone. I work with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, tailoring care to each person’s unique needs. While I'm open to helping patients wherever they are on their journey, I find the best outcomes occur when individuals are ready to explore change on multiple fronts.
I am currently accepting new clients. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia or symptoms of ADHD? I believe that the most effective path to mental well-being combines medication management and therapy. Research consistently shows that this integrative approach is more powerful than either treatment alone. I work with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, tailoring care to each person’s unique needs. While I'm open to helping patients wherever they are on their journey, I find the best outcomes occur when individuals are ready to explore change on multiple fronts.
(971) 290-4288 View (971) 290-4288
Photo of Dr. Emily DeMarco, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Emily DeMarco
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients without a waitlist. My small practice offers a whole-person approach to mental health, where your individual goals and priorities are at the heart of your care. Together we will consider your symptoms through the lenses of your past experiences, relationships, physical health, environment, stressors and goals, and develop a strategy that fits your unique circumstance. I'm able to offer therapy and thoughtful medication management services in addition to habit, lifestyle and dietary recommendations to support your growth and healing.
I am currently accepting new patients without a waitlist. My small practice offers a whole-person approach to mental health, where your individual goals and priorities are at the heart of your care. Together we will consider your symptoms through the lenses of your past experiences, relationships, physical health, environment, stressors and goals, and develop a strategy that fits your unique circumstance. I'm able to offer therapy and thoughtful medication management services in addition to habit, lifestyle and dietary recommendations to support your growth and healing.
(971) 231-3441 View (971) 231-3441
Photo of Rebecca Booker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN
Rebecca Booker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN
Online Only
I’m Rebecca Booker, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of diverse nursing experience, specializing in mental health, psychiatry, and psychotherapy. My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or insomnia. They seek compassionate care to regain balance and improve their mental well-being. Their goal is to overcome struggles, restore peace, and lead a fulfilling, empowered life.
I’m Rebecca Booker, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of diverse nursing experience, specializing in mental health, psychiatry, and psychotherapy. My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or insomnia. They seek compassionate care to regain balance and improve their mental well-being. Their goal is to overcome struggles, restore peace, and lead a fulfilling, empowered life.
(971) 316-4326 View (971) 316-4326
Photo of Annie Hood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Annie Hood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric services to individuals ages 16 and older and have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric services to individuals ages 16 and older and have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
(503) 868-0238 View (503) 868-0238
Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP-BC
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP-BC
Portland, OR 97205
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
(971) 314-6635 View (971) 314-6635
Photo of Lamin Tunkara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Lamin Tunkara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Lamin Tunkara is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. At Spring Valley Wellness Center, we are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care that promotes healing, resilience, and personal growth. We are guided by empathy, integrity, and a deep respect for every individual, we strive to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space where all feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey to mental wellness. We offer evidence-based therapies, and individualized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each person.
Lamin Tunkara is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. At Spring Valley Wellness Center, we are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care that promotes healing, resilience, and personal growth. We are guided by empathy, integrity, and a deep respect for every individual, we strive to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space where all feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey to mental wellness. We offer evidence-based therapies, and individualized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each person.
(971) 399-7467 View (971) 399-7467
Photo of Tara Ericksen - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Portland, OR 97213
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(971) 315-9993 View (971) 315-9993
Photo of Jaymie Stovall - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I take a highly individualized and thorough approach to mental health care, setting me apart by dedicating extensive time and attention to truly understanding each person's unique needs. I don't simply treat symptoms—I dig deep to uncover the root causes, making vital connections between mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. This comprehensive process allows me to develop tailored, accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans, which often incorporate both pharmaceutical medication management and integrative, holistic approaches.
I take a highly individualized and thorough approach to mental health care, setting me apart by dedicating extensive time and attention to truly understanding each person's unique needs. I don't simply treat symptoms—I dig deep to uncover the root causes, making vital connections between mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. This comprehensive process allows me to develop tailored, accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans, which often incorporate both pharmaceutical medication management and integrative, holistic approaches.
(971) 414-3064 View (971) 414-3064
Photo of Anna Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anna Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Portland, OR 97201
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
(503) 461-9883 View (503) 461-9883
Photo of Sophia Kuo - Pacific Northwest Health, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Pacific Northwest Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
During these complicated and chaotic times, it can be helpful to have a place to explore how all that is happening affects your feelings, relationships, and life course. As a psychiatrist, I am a physician who specializes in psychotherapy and the medicines that support mental health. While I have training and experience in a number of treatment modalities, my primary interest is getting to know you, and understanding your unique experience in the world.
Photo of Cassandra Stell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Cassandra Stell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Online Only
Accepting new clients in OR and WA. No matter where you are on your psychiatric health, my goal is provide a therapeutic environment to help you achieve your best unique outcome. One of many benefits of becoming mentally strong is that it is one of the best ways to improve how you feel emotionally and physically. My mission is to provide psychiatric diagnosis and medication management in a comprehensive and teaching manner, paying careful attention to your psychological and individual make-up. My approach is collaborative and relational.
Accepting new clients in OR and WA. No matter where you are on your psychiatric health, my goal is provide a therapeutic environment to help you achieve your best unique outcome. One of many benefits of becoming mentally strong is that it is one of the best ways to improve how you feel emotionally and physically. My mission is to provide psychiatric diagnosis and medication management in a comprehensive and teaching manner, paying careful attention to your psychological and individual make-up. My approach is collaborative and relational.
(503) 966-0733 View (503) 966-0733
Photo of Liz Farrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Liz Farrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
Currently accepting new clients. If you are seeking a psychiatric provider to help with issues of anxiety, panic, depression, mood dysregulation, rumination, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, or sleep problems, I provide psychiatric medication management with solution-based counseling. If you are seeking to change your circumstances, I’d like to help. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify personalized goals of treatment. I provide an empathic, humorous and pragmatic approach to the therapeutic process.
(503) 832-6998 View (503) 832-6998
Photo of Morgan Burdick - Thistle Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNP
Thistle Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204
Next openings for new patient intake visits are in September but feel free to schedule a consult before then via my website. I look forward to meeting you! I'm Morgan (she/they) I'm a social worker turned nurse then mental health nurse practitioner. I provide holistic mental health medication management including evidence-supported herbs and vitamins for people who range from enthusiastic to unsure about medications. I welcome people who are interested in having a conversation about if medications are right for them or who would like support maintaining mental health improvements while reducing or simplifying their medications.
Next openings for new patient intake visits are in September but feel free to schedule a consult before then via my website. I look forward to meeting you! I'm Morgan (she/they) I'm a social worker turned nurse then mental health nurse practitioner. I provide holistic mental health medication management including evidence-supported herbs and vitamins for people who range from enthusiastic to unsure about medications. I welcome people who are interested in having a conversation about if medications are right for them or who would like support maintaining mental health improvements while reducing or simplifying their medications.
(971) 626-1498 View (971) 626-1498
Photo of Andrew James Hughes, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrew James Hughes
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
Effective care begins with curiosity and precision. I work best with people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or out of sync—and who are looking for something deeper and more thoughtful than what they’ve tried before. My approach is thorough and collaborative, combining careful evaluation, therapy, and medication when appropriate. I draw on neuroscience, psychodynamic theory, and real-world habits to support lasting change.
Effective care begins with curiosity and precision. I work best with people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or out of sync—and who are looking for something deeper and more thoughtful than what they’ve tried before. My approach is thorough and collaborative, combining careful evaluation, therapy, and medication when appropriate. I draw on neuroscience, psychodynamic theory, and real-world habits to support lasting change.
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See more therapy options for Multnomah County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Multnomah County, OR

500+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Multnomah County, OR who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
78% ADHD
76% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
73% Regence

How Psychiatrists in Multnomah County, OR see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Multnomah 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.

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.