Psychiatrists in Newberg, OR

Photo of Ablavi Agomessou - Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Online Only
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
(678) 922-4240 View (678) 922-4240
Photo of Lavena McCullum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lavena McCullum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Newberg, OR 97132
Maybe you are exploring ADHD for the first time as an adult. Maybe you are living with a depression that has quietly eroded your energy and sense of self. Or perhaps you have tried medication before without the results you hoped for and are looking for a provider who will listen carefully before prescribing. Whatever has brought you here, I believe that you deserve thoughtful evaluation and a treatment plan built around your life.
Maybe you are exploring ADHD for the first time as an adult. Maybe you are living with a depression that has quietly eroded your energy and sense of self. Or perhaps you have tried medication before without the results you hoped for and are looking for a provider who will listen carefully before prescribing. Whatever has brought you here, I believe that you deserve thoughtful evaluation and a treatment plan built around your life.
(971) 406-3436 View (971) 406-3436
Photo of Christina "Christy" Cowgill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNA, BCH
Christina "Christy" Cowgill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNA, BCH
Newberg, OR 97132
Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals, caregivers, and helpers who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, depression, trauma responses, or chronic pain. They may have tried therapy or medication but sense something deeper is driving their symptoms. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Hypnotherapist, I help clients explore meaningful change through an integrative approach that addresses both mind and body. With over two decades of experience as an advanced practice nurse and a background in anesthesia and chronic pain care, I bring both medical and psychological perspectives to healing.
Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals, caregivers, and helpers who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, depression, trauma responses, or chronic pain. They may have tried therapy or medication but sense something deeper is driving their symptoms. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Hypnotherapist, I help clients explore meaningful change through an integrative approach that addresses both mind and body. With over two decades of experience as an advanced practice nurse and a background in anesthesia and chronic pain care, I bring both medical and psychological perspectives to healing.
(971) 459-1370 View (971) 459-1370
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.
(971) 308-8266 View (971) 308-8266
Photo of Jennifer Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Living with anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma can feel exhausting. Many of my clients in Oregon describe pushing through work and relationships while quietly struggling inside. Some have tried therapy or medication before without the relief they hoped for. What they want is simple but powerful: to feel calmer, steadier, and more connected to themselves and the people they love. If this sounds familiar, you don’t have to carry it alone—real support and change are possible.
Living with anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma can feel exhausting. Many of my clients in Oregon describe pushing through work and relationships while quietly struggling inside. Some have tried therapy or medication before without the relief they hoped for. What they want is simple but powerful: to feel calmer, steadier, and more connected to themselves and the people they love. If this sounds familiar, you don’t have to carry it alone—real support and change are possible.
(503) 843-8722 View (503) 843-8722
Photo of Mackenzie Callis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mackenzie Callis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety (generalized, social, and OCD) and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD, and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety (generalized, social, and OCD) and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD, and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
(503) 664-9799 View (503) 664-9799
Photo of Helen Caldwell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Helen Caldwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
(971) 376-8235 View (971) 376-8235
Photo of Timothy Lafolette, Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
Timothy Lafolette
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that make day-to-day life feel impossible? Do you feel overwhelmed by pretty much everything? Do you wonder if life could feel just a little easier? Now, more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, and depressed, often feeling bogged down by past traumas and out-of-date beliefs. I believe that we can find ways to feel better and improve our lives, one step at a time. These changes are helpful not only for ourselves, but for everyone around us.
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that make day-to-day life feel impossible? Do you feel overwhelmed by pretty much everything? Do you wonder if life could feel just a little easier? Now, more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, and depressed, often feeling bogged down by past traumas and out-of-date beliefs. I believe that we can find ways to feel better and improve our lives, one step at a time. These changes are helpful not only for ourselves, but for everyone around us.
(971) 278-9801 View (971) 278-9801
Photo of Lecia Boyd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lecia Boyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with the mental and emotional challenges of pregnancy, having issues during the postpartum period and you need support? Did you have a traumatic birth, or experienced a pregnancy loss? Feeling overwhelmed as a female, managing life, motherhood, hormone changes, and other stressors? Do you wonder if you might have ADHD, but you don't know what steps to take for an evaluation or treatment? Are there days that you feel tired, painful, more sad than usual? In ANY of these scenarios, please know you are not alone. Navigating mental health can be challenging but you are making the choice to start looking, Good JOB!
Are you struggling with the mental and emotional challenges of pregnancy, having issues during the postpartum period and you need support? Did you have a traumatic birth, or experienced a pregnancy loss? Feeling overwhelmed as a female, managing life, motherhood, hormone changes, and other stressors? Do you wonder if you might have ADHD, but you don't know what steps to take for an evaluation or treatment? Are there days that you feel tired, painful, more sad than usual? In ANY of these scenarios, please know you are not alone. Navigating mental health can be challenging but you are making the choice to start looking, Good JOB!
(971) 464-2086 View (971) 464-2086
Photo of Jennifer Behnke - Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.
(971) 251-9589 View (971) 251-9589
Photo of Stephanie Sweeny - Stephanie Sweeny @ Womens MH Specialists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Stephanie Sweeny @ Womens MH Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Online Only
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
(971) 412-4931 View (971) 412-4931

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Howard Rosenbaum, Psychiatrist, MD
Howard Rosenbaum
Psychiatrist, MD
Beaverton, OR 97006
Immediate Openings Howard Rosenbaum, MD is a skilled psychiatrist who specializes in the medication management of a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder in adults.. Based in Beaverton, Oregon for over 25 years, Dr Rosenbaums is deeply committed to working collaboratively with his patients in order to achieve the best possible outcome. He works closely with therapists and other care providers in order to coordinate care. His practice includes telemedicine and in person sessions. His dog Finnegan occasionally attends sessions with him.
Immediate Openings Howard Rosenbaum, MD is a skilled psychiatrist who specializes in the medication management of a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder in adults.. Based in Beaverton, Oregon for over 25 years, Dr Rosenbaums is deeply committed to working collaboratively with his patients in order to achieve the best possible outcome. He works closely with therapists and other care providers in order to coordinate care. His practice includes telemedicine and in person sessions. His dog Finnegan occasionally attends sessions with him.
(971) 812-1442 View (971) 812-1442
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 Abraham Ashton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Abraham Ashton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services to adults and young adults. I believe in a strong therapeutic collaboration between myself and my patients. In my practice, I strive to achieve the highest care with respect and regard for my patients. Treatments align with evidence-based guidelines combined with clinical experience to develop a treatment plan that is centered around the patient.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services to adults and young adults. I believe in a strong therapeutic collaboration between myself and my patients. In my practice, I strive to achieve the highest care with respect and regard for my patients. Treatments align with evidence-based guidelines combined with clinical experience to develop a treatment plan that is centered around the patient.
(503) 546-2837 View (503) 546-2837
Photo of Morgan Geiger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Morgan Geiger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Morgan Geiger, MSN, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive clinical experience. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from Columbia University and completed her post-master’s psychiatric training at Duke University. With experience spanning New York City, Oregon, Alaska, and India, Morgan has a systems-level understanding of mental health care and is committed to improving access to services and the quality of care provided.
Morgan Geiger, MSN, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive clinical experience. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from Columbia University and completed her post-master’s psychiatric training at Duke University. With experience spanning New York City, Oregon, Alaska, and India, Morgan has a systems-level understanding of mental health care and is committed to improving access to services and the quality of care provided.
(503) 546-2837 View (503) 546-2837
Photo of Dana Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Dana Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-64 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-64 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
(971) 315-4821 View (971) 315-4821
Photo of Shantel Escobar - Shantel Escobar | ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, & OUD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Shantel Escobar | ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, & OUD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) or Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) across all ages, from children to adults. I provide a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses both mental health and addiction concerns. While therapy is important, medication often plays a crucial role in effective treatment, helping to manage symptoms, improve focus, and enhance emotional well-being. For those with ADHD or SUD/OUD, finding the right treatment can lead to lasting recovery and stability.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) or Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) across all ages, from children to adults. I provide a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses both mental health and addiction concerns. While therapy is important, medication often plays a crucial role in effective treatment, helping to manage symptoms, improve focus, and enhance emotional well-being. For those with ADHD or SUD/OUD, finding the right treatment can lead to lasting recovery and stability.
(541) 631-4031 View (541) 631-4031
Photo of Julia Jansen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Julia Jansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
(458) 213-4758 View (458) 213-4758
Photo of Kathleen Kelley, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Kathleen Kelley
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with advanced training in psychotherapy and medication management. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and the adjustment--both physical and psychological--to parenthood. My background as a Community Health Nurse visiting pregnant and newly parenting families, and my understanding of the hormonal and biological factors that are intertwined with emotional issues during this time, make me an excellent choice for prenatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I have a certificate from Postpartum Support International in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with advanced training in psychotherapy and medication management. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and the adjustment--both physical and psychological--to parenthood. My background as a Community Health Nurse visiting pregnant and newly parenting families, and my understanding of the hormonal and biological factors that are intertwined with emotional issues during this time, make me an excellent choice for prenatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I have a certificate from Postpartum Support International in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
(503) 967-9232 View (503) 967-9232
Photo of Jeanne Johnson, Psychiatrist, MS, DDS, MD
Jeanne Johnson
Psychiatrist, MS, DDS, MD
Portland, OR 97219
My goal is to partner with individuals to relieve emotional pain and suffering. We all encounter periods of emotional turmoil in our lives that may lead to feelings of isolation, grief, anxiety and depression. During these times, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find solutions to problems on our own. Along with fostering a safe environment for sharing, I provide psychoanalysis and psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy. I endeavor to empower others to find a greater sense of emotional flexibility, discover new solutions to old problems, invigorate relationships, achieve peace of mind, and experience enduring change.
My goal is to partner with individuals to relieve emotional pain and suffering. We all encounter periods of emotional turmoil in our lives that may lead to feelings of isolation, grief, anxiety and depression. During these times, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find solutions to problems on our own. Along with fostering a safe environment for sharing, I provide psychoanalysis and psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy. I endeavor to empower others to find a greater sense of emotional flexibility, discover new solutions to old problems, invigorate relationships, achieve peace of mind, and experience enduring change.
(971) 260-4183 View (971) 260-4183

See more therapy options for Newberg

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Newberg, OR

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Newberg, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Medication Management
82% Sleep or Insomnia
73% ADHD
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Providence

How Psychiatrists in Newberg, OR see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Newberg?

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.